On the 5th of September 2023, Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis of Cape Town proudly launched the 2023 edition of the Mayor’s Portfolio of Urban Sustainability. This inspiring publication showcases various projects that aim to create a nurturing, inclusive, prosperous, unified, respectful, secure, and liberated city. The Mayor’s Portfolio invites citizens to actively collaborate with the City in this essential endeavor.
Incorporating Sustainability into Project Planning and Execution
The Mayor’s Portfolio of Urban Sustainability reflects the City of Cape Town’s long-term commitment to incorporating sustainability into project planning and execution. The approach highlights a responsibility to foster development that is both environmentally and socially responsible, ensuring the city’s long-term well-being.
Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis acknowledges the various hardships Cape Town has faced in recent years, including water scarcity, the COVID-19 pandemic, a national energy crisis, ongoing load-shedding, inland water quality issues, and the mounting threat of climate change. Rapid urbanization further strains the city’s land, natural resources, and assets. Despite these hardships, the resilience and ingenuity displayed by Capetonians provide a solid foundation for building a sustainable city.
Celebrating Citizen Engagement in Co-Creating Sustainable Projects
The Urban Sustainability Portfolio serves as an opportunity to applaud the City’s project managers and citizens who actively engage in co-creating sustainable projects. Their collective efforts ensure that Cape Town will continue to flourish in the years to come.
The Four Distinct Sections of the Mayor’s Portfolio of Urban Sustainability
The 2023 edition of the Mayor’s Portfolio of Urban Sustainability highlights 30 new projects contributing to the construction of a sustainable urban environment. These initiatives are divided into four distinct sections, each reflecting a crucial aspect of urban sustainability.
Vision Portfolio
This section outlines the strategic direction and overarching goals that guide the city’s pursuit of sustainability. It emphasizes the need for a shared vision among residents, businesses, and the government to achieve lasting success.
Social Portfolio
In this section, projects focused on fostering social cohesion, inclusiveness, and community engagement are presented. These initiatives contribute to the well-being of all residents by addressing issues such as housing, education, and public health.
Economic Portfolio
This portion of the Mayor’s Portfolio showcases projects aimed at promoting economic growth and development in an environmentally responsible manner. These initiatives support local businesses, job creation, and responsible resource management.
Ecological Portfolio
The final section highlights projects that prioritize environmental conservation and restoration. These efforts include preserving natural habitats, promoting biodiversity, and implementing climate change adaptation strategies.
Innovative Approaches to Incorporating Sustainability
The Mayor’s Portfolio of Urban Sustainability program continually seeks innovative ways to incorporate sustainability into the city’s fabric, exploring avenues such as knowledge partnerships, mentorship programs, and support for existing communities of practice.
The complete 2023 edition of the Mayor’s Portfolio of Urban Sustainability is available for public perusal, providing a comprehensive overview of the City’s ongoing commitment to creating a greener, more resilient Cape Town for future generations.
