Environmental organisaiton urges residents to plant more trees

EARLIER this year, the government relaunched its initiative to plant one million trees as part of the Presidential Ten Million Trees Programme.

One group actively doing this is environmental organisation Enviro Fixers Durban North.

Through various campaigns, the organisation, funded by the community and helped out by dedicated volunteers, has been on a drive to plant indigenous, water-wise trees throughout the ward.

More than 1000 trees have been planted across the ward, including Umhlanga Rocks Drive, Virginia Circle, Seaton Park, the entrance to Durban North and Bridgevale Park Nature Reserve.

Also read: Kenville or Sea Cow Lake learners in need of stationery packs

Ellysa Entwistle, who is a member of Enviro Fixers Durban North, has also helped plant trees in the area.

“We have worked together on community outreach projects for mass planting with the eThekwini Parks, Recreation and Culture Department and other stakeholders to keep the area a leafy suburb. Our message is simple: plant indigenous trees which will help support our wildlife. You also don’t have to plant massive trees; smaller trees also work and are aesthetically beautiful.

“Our message to residents is to avoid cutting trees down. Planting trees is a way of protecting soil from erosion and providing food for a vast range of animals and birdlife. The aim of Enviro Fixers is to green our area and build a diversity of plant and animal life using indigenous trees. Particularly now, in the intense heat, there is very little shade along Umhlanga Rocks Drive, and one can only imagine what an avenue of trees would look like on this stretch of road,” she said.

Also read: Durban North swimmers go to great lengths for charity

Her words were echoed by Jane Troughton, a member of the Durban North Conservancy and Enviro Fixers.

“Sadly, we are seeing trees being decimated on a large scale. The recent surge in illegal cutting and pruning of these trees poses a significant threat to the ecological and social benefits they offer. Trees provide numerous benefits that extend far beyond their beauty, including providing shade and cooling the surrounding area. They also improve air quality and offer unique habitats for birds, insects and other wildlife.

“Another important point to note is that roots of street trees absorb rainwater, reducing runoff and preventing flooding during heavy rains. As an organisation, we advocate for trees and support local initiatives that promote tree planting and maintenance. It’s up to all of us to ensure they are cared for and preserved,” she said.

For more from Northglen News, follow us on Facebook, X or Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.

Click to subscribe to our newsletter – here