Title

by
1 min read
environmental sustainability career development

DESTEA’s Commitment to Environmental Sustainability: Career Expo and Flagship Programs

The Department of Economic Small Business Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs (DESTEA) organized an Environment Career Expo on June 2, 2023, at the Willem Pretorius Nature Reserve to celebrate Environment Month. The expo aimed to educate learners about the opportunities available in the environmental sector and to encourage the pursuit of careers in this field. The theme for World Environment Day was #BeatPlasticPollution, which stressed the importance of reducing plastic pollution.

Plastic Pollution Statistics

Plastic pollution is a significant environmental challenge. Each person consumes an average of 50,000 micro-particles of plastic annually, and 21 million tons of plastic are dumped into water bodies every year, exacerbating greenhouse gas emissions and climate change impacts.

Career Expo

Approximately 400 Grade 9 learners across the province attended the Career Expo, where various stakeholders in the environmental sector exhibited their work. A Natural Science teacher from Kananelo Secondary School praised the initiative, stating that the expo was informative and would provide learners with more knowledge about the environment sector. He also emphasized the value of such expos for students who have yet to decide on their career paths.

Flagship Programs

DESTEA planned a series of flagship programs throughout June 2023 to mark Environment Month. These included Environment Stakeholder Engagement on June 13, DESTEA Environmental Week from June 19-23, and the Closing of Environment Month on June 30. These programs aimed to promote environmental sustainability and encourage public engagement.

Waste Management Ecosystem

In his 2023/24 Budget Vote speech, MEC Thabo Meeko committed R4 million to support small, medium, and micro-sized enterprises (SMMEs) participating in the Waste Economy. This initiative was carried out in collaboration with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment through their Recycling Enterprise Support Programme (RESP). In the previous financial year, five Free State-based enterprises received R25 million worth of support from the RESP.

Promoting Environmental Sustainability

The Free State Province promotes environmental sustainability by focusing on key areas such as environmental quality and protection, environmental education and awareness, waste and air quality management, environmental impact assessments, and promoting the circular economy. These initiatives align with Section 24 of the South African Constitution, which promotes environmental rights and sustainable development.

Through the Career Expo and flagship programs, DESTEA is raising awareness about environmental issues, promoting sustainable development, and inspiring the next generation to #BeatPlasticPollution. The department’s commitment to environmental sustainability and waste management will contribute to a healthier planet and foster economic growth.

Tags:

You might be interested in

A Russian-Spanish journalist and Cape Town native, channels his lifelong passion for South Africa into captivating stories for his local blog. With a diverse background and 50 years of rich experiences, Serjio's unique voice resonates with readers seeking to explore Cape Town's vibrant culture. His love for the city shines through in every piece, making Serjio the go-to source for the latest in South African adventures.

View all

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

government transparency public participation
Previous Story

Public Service Commission Seeks Public Input on the 2023 Bill

water supply maintenance
Next Story

Planned Water Supply Maintenance: Everything You Need to Know

Latest from Blog

south africa trucking industry

The Upcoming Shutdown: South Africa’s Trucking Industry in Crisis

South Africa’s trucking industry faces a looming shutdown as the All Truck Drivers Forum and Allied SA (ATDFASA) announced a shutdown planned for May 20, 2024. This is due to the ongoing conflict over hiring foreign truck drivers, which has resulted in national shutdowns, protests, casualties, damage to trucks, and loss of goods. The impact of the protests has extended beyond the industry, severely affecting the South African economy and public safety. The disruptions have also caused shortages of basic necessities, delays in deliveries, and increased absences among staff members.

water supply maintenance work

Unmasking the Unsung Champions: The Pivotal Role of the Municipality’s Water and Sanitation Department

The Municipality’s Water and Sanitation Department is responsible for ensuring the delivery of clean water to the city and sustaining the infrastructure. They conduct periodic checks and maintenance work, which may cause temporary disruptions but are essential for the city’s water demand management strategy. These disruptions are a small inconvenience compared to the larger goal of ensuring sustainable water management for future generations. The department’s commitment to their civic duty is commendable, and their behindthescenes work often goes unseen but is crucial to the city’s health and vibrancy.

law enforcement community participation

The Impact of Operation Shanela in South Africa

Operation Shanela in South Africa’s Northern Cape province is a successful police initiative that has made significant progress in suppressing major crimes in identified problem areas. The operation involved a blend of watchfulness, strategic design, and steadfast enforcement, leading to the apprehension of 266 criminals, including elusive offenders. It also prioritized education and awareness campaigns, community interactions, and community participation to promote mental health, child safety, and rural safety. Operation Shanela epitomizes a comprehensive, proactive, communitycentered approach to law enforcement.

south african coast fishing vessel

A Gallant Endeavour at Sea: In Pursuit of Lost Fishermen on the Atlantic Borders

When a fishing vessel sank off the South African coast, neighbouring fishing boats and rescue organizations sprang into action, leading to the recovery of nine out of twenty local fishermen. Despite the intensive air and sea search, the fate of the missing eleven fishermen remains uncertain. This event highlights the unity and resilience of the maritime community, always willing to put their own safety on the line to save others.

south africa nhi bill

Insightful Reforms: South Africa’s NHI Bill and its Implications on SASSA Grants

South Africa’s NHI Bill has been approved by the president and aims to offer universal quality healthcare to all citizens by consolidating resources from taxpayers. The bill promises to enroll all South Africans, including pensioners, in a unified funding system by 2024, ensuring extensive healthcare coverage. However, concerns have been raised about the potential pressure on government finances and the sustainability of SASSA grants. The execution of the bill is fraught with uncertainties, but if successful, it could bring a favorable transformation to the SASSA grants and alleviate financial strain on the country’s most vulnerable citizens.