District 6 libraries celebrate environmental sustainability

Various members of the community and local leadership gathered for a discussion with environmentalists on how to curb plastic pollution.

June 30, 2025

Dillon Pillay 1 minute read

Dr. Tamlynn Fleetwood of the Durban Zero Waste Project, Aubrey Muswema of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Merrisa Naidoo of GAIA Africa and environmental activist Desmond D’sa of the South Durban Community Environmental Alliance were keynote speakers at the environmental talk. Photos: Dillon Pillay.

IN celebration of World Environmental Month, Grosvenor Library held an insightful environmental awareness lecture recently that brought together 50 eco-warriors to discuss the increasing threat of plastic pollution and promote sustainable living.

Also read: Health and safety talk keeps learners informed in Montclair

The drive was organised by eThekwini Municipality Libraries and Cleansing and Solid Waste, in partnership with a bigger district drive spearheaded by District Six Libraries.

Somikazi Bonani, librarian at Grosvenor Library, said the programme aimed to raise awareness on the effects of plastic pollution on the environment and to inculcate the culture of reading in the community.

The discussion was attended by members of the community, scouts, learners, Bluff Residents and Ratepayers Association chairperson and ward 66 councillor Zoë Solomon.

Ward 66 councillor, Zoë Solomon pledges to fight against plastic pollution.

eThekwini Municipal Libraries District 6 manager, Zukiwe Vikelo, kicked off the session talking on the importance of community and leadership working together to find a solution to curb a problem that affects everyone.

Bonani said the environmentalists engaged in a dialogue about their experiences and ongoing endeavours to stem pollution.

The keynote speakers included environmental activist Desmond D’sa of the South Durban Community Environmental Alliance, Dr. Tamlynn Fleetwood of the Durban Zero Waste Project, Merrisa Naidoo of GAIA Africa and Aubrey Muswema of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). “Each of the speakers touched on various programmes initiated by communities and zero-waste projects for waste minimisation, recycling and optimal practice in safe disposal,” said Bonani.

Cub member Sakhile Motlokoa was excited to be a part of the talk.

She added that Rene Harry, librarian at Merebank Library, also delivered a short presentation on the range of services offered by eThekwini Municipal Libraries.

Bonani said the event was a major success. “The community engaged wonderfully with the panel and Solomon pledged her support in future zero waste initiatives that will be undertaken in the Ward,” she said.

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