The world celebrated the International Day for Biodiversity under the theme ‘Biodiversity for sustainable development’ on May 22.
The Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality (EMM) used this year’s event as a unique opportunity to raise public awareness on the importance of biodiversity.
The OR Tambo Cultural Precinct in Wattville is regarded as a biodiversity region within Ekurhuleni.
Community members and high school pupils from around the area received first-hand natural science lessons from environmentalists on biodiversity.
These experts shared their in-depth knowledge on the co-existence of various plants, water bodies, reptiles, birds and human life with the audience.
Ekurhuleni spokesperson, Mr Themba Gadebe, said Ekurhuleni wants to emphasize the need to reduce the current rate of biodiversity loss, which negatively impacts all life on Earth.
Clr Ndosi Shongwe was the keynote speaker at the event.
He is a Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Environmental Resources Management in Ekurhuleni.
“It is every citizen’s responsibility to take care of the biodiversity as it is our natural heritage. As the city, we are in the process of devising more strategic and developmental approaches to environmental management within the metro,” said Clr Shongwe.
Pupils demonstrated their understanding of the importance of biodiversity by doing chart presentations, poetry and stage plays which helped older citizens better understand the concept of biodiversity.
