The Cape Metropolitan Council (CMC) launched the year one 1998 State of Environment Report on 3 December 1999. Busses left on a tailor-made environmental tour through Khayelitsha that revealed on the ground that which the State of Environment Report (SoE) has identified on paper. Three local youths who, through close involvement in the planning of the event have come to understand the environmental imperatives of the area, guided the guests through the township. Professor Ron Davies, and international expert in the development of apartheid cities, provided novel insights during the journey on the environmental consequences of the urban history. Sights of interest included dunes and the Khayelitsha wetlands, different types of settlements and housing, as well as various types of survival and informal businesses such as home brewing, recycling, crafts and trading.

Councillor Brian Watkyns of the CMC stated in his opening address that SoE reporting "... hammers home the challenge we face to protect and enhance our magnificent natural environment in an urban context, while encouraging the development and economic activity that's needed to improve our citizens' quality of life." The main address was delivered by Metropolitan Mayor Alderman Reverend William Bantom, in which he reiterated the importance of effective environmental management to the Cape Metropolitan Area. "Equally important.." he said, "... is that each and every person becomes aware of his or her impact on the environment and how each of us can contribute positively."(Click here for the Mayor's full address).

Theatre for Africa, a locally and internationally acclaimed theatre company performed an original environmental drama based on the 14 themes identified and discussed in the State of Environment Report.

Blaauwberg Municipality donated 14 trees, one for each of the 14 State of Environment themes. The trees were planted during a tree planting ceremony. The trees will be a permanent reminder and symbol of the CMC's commitment to the care of the Cape Metropolitan Area's environment. Abalimi Bezekhaya, a local NGO, has volunteered to partner the CMC in the effort by monitoring the care of the trees by the local community.

Congratulations to the Cape Metropolitan Council for a very successful project and excellent launch!

Charmain Kruger
Project Manager: CEROI

useful links

CMC State of Environment Report

CMC Web site

National State of Environment Report

CEROI Project