Cape Town, known for its exceptional urban greening initiatives, has been shortlisted for the highly coveted 2023 National Arbor City Award. This prestigious accolade is awarded to cities that exhibit unwavering commitment to urban forestry, the promotion of sustainable environments, and the flourishing of green spaces within their city limits. The city has previously won the award in 2016 and 2021, demonstrating its ongoing dedication to environmental preservation.
The National Arbor City Award
The National Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment (DFFE) administers the National Arbor City Award. The award recognizes municipalities that demonstrate extraordinary efforts in conserving and planting trees, as well as cultivating awareness and education surrounding environmental conservation. Should Cape Town win the award again, the city will receive acknowledgment for its green spaces, tree-planting initiatives, and educational environmental programs. It will also receive a financial contribution to further enhance its urban forestry endeavors.
Councillor Patricia van der Ross’ Statement
Councillor Patricia van der Ross, Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, expressed her excitement for Cape Town’s nomination. She stated that Cape Town has already proven itself as a sustainability leader and an exemplary model for other cities. She emphasized the importance of tree care in urban environments, highlighting it as an investment in a prosperous and healthy future environment.
Adjudication Process
To assess the award, an adjudication panel, made up of officials from the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment, TotalEnergies, the Institute for Environment and Recreation Management (IERM), and the South African National Botanical Institute (SANBI), visited various green spaces, projects, and programs throughout the city. They toured locations such as Langa, Mitchell’s Plain, and Newlands, chosen for their representation of diverse segments of the metropolis and community, to gain a comprehensive view of Cape Town’s environmental efforts.
Announcement of the Winning City
The winning city will be announced in September, designated as National Arbor Month. As Cape Town competes for its third victory in the esteemed National Arbor City Awards, its unwavering dedication to urban greening and sustainable environments remains steadfast. The city’s preservation and enhancement of its urban landscape inspire municipalities worldwide, setting a high bar for environmental stewardship in the 21st century.
