Eco Minute 13:30

BULLETIN 15 September 1:30 pm

Good afternoon, here is your Eco Minute:

# Global Environmental Law Centre director Angela van der Berg says the International Court of Justice’s landmark climate opinion could strengthen South African communities’ legal battle against Shell’s offshore drilling plans. In her article on The Maritime Executive, Van der Berg stressed that the ruling obliges states to phase out fossil fuels, prevent climate harm, and protect human rights. Activist groups are already using it in appeals against Shell’s Northern Cape project, arguing it undermines South Africa’s climate obligations and livelihoods.

# The Ebb-and-Flow rest camp in the Wilderness section of the Garden Route National Park has been named Best Weekend Escape at the Best of George Readers’ Choice Awards in the Western Cape. The award, based on public nominations and voting, recognises outstanding local businesses. Known for its forest trails, panoramic views, and diverse accommodation, the camp previously won Best Performing Camp at the 2024 SANParks Kudu Awards.

# And finally: Australia’s minister for Climate Change and Energy, Chris Bowen, says the government needs to set a strong 2035 emissions reduction target. He has today released the long-awaited National Climate Risk Assessment, Australia’s first comprehensive assessment of the risks posed by climate. The report lays bare the heightened risk of heat-related deaths and rising sea levels in the populous coastal communities. Bowen says after a decade of denial and delay, government is acting on climate change:

Stay tuned for more news………….