For over ten years, there have been ongoing conflicts between humans and baboons in South Africa over sharing habitats. Baboon conservation organization Baboon Matters has taken legal action against various authorities due to their failure to implement strategies to resolve the conflict, putting both humans and baboons at risk. Specific demands include baboonproof fences, bins, traffic calming measures, and insulation of electric power lines. The lack of collaboration among authorities has put the wellbeing of Cape Peninsula baboons at risk, causing suffering for both locals and baboons.
The Two Oceans Aquarium Trash Bash initiative brings together community members to combat plastic pollution in the ocean. Participants join in regular cleanup activities on land and underwater, using the Dirty Dozen methodology to document the most common items polluting the coastline. The campaign offers a communal call to arms, demonstrating the power of collective responsibility in the fight against plastic pollution. The next cleanup event is planned for May 2024 at Hout Bay Beach, with prizes available for participants and ongoing efforts to combat plastic pollution throughout the year.
Rising to the Challenge: Cape Town’s Combat Against the Destructive Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer Beetle
Cape Town is taking on the destructive Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer Beetle (PSHB) that threatens its urban forest. The city’s Invasive Species Unit is providing training sessions to help residents recognize infested trees, handle affected biomass, and impede the beetle’s spread. The program aims to empower individuals and businesses alike to protect their green spaces effectively and preserve the city’s ecological heritage. With the united efforts of its citizens, Cape Town is rising to the challenge of this formidable foe.
Cape Town’s ‘I am a Smart Driver’ initiative is a driving program that promotes responsible and sustainable driving among city fleet drivers. The program requires training for all drivers and has already resulted in significant fuel savings, reduced CO2 emissions, and improved road safety. The program is a concrete city initiative that is monitored through advanced technology to track driver behavior, fuel usage, and safety records. It serves as a model for other cities to follow in fostering environmentally friendly practices and sustainable urban development.
Cape Town is calling on organizations to join the Protected Area Advisory Committees to help preserve nature reserves and their unique biodiversity. These committees facilitate communication and partnerships between local communities, interest groups, and the City, playing a fundamental role in managing the City’s nature reserves. The makeup of the committees reflects diversity and inclusivity, and they oversee a variety of nature reserves, each with picturesque landscapes. Cape Town’s initiative stands as a hopeful model for community participation in environmental conservation.
Meet Otter, a weed harvester designed to keep Cape Town’s water bodies healthy and clean. Equipped with underwater blades, it is responsible for controlling the growth of Sago Pondweed, removing algal mats, and refining water quality. Otter is a breakthrough in ecofriendly water management and a triumph of local craftsmanship, contributing to the city’s dedication towards preserving and enhancing its water bodies.
The launch of ‘Otter’, a custombuilt weed harvester, marks a significant milestone in the environmental conservation of Rietvlei in Cape Town. Its function is to cut, collect, and eradicate aquatic plants to improve water quality and make the vlei safer and more accessible for watercraft and the local communities. The initiative is part of the City’s commitment to the preservation of its cherished recreational vleis and contributes to the local economies flourishing around these vleis. ‘Otter’ is a commendable step towards the management of natural resources.
Cape Town’s Catchment, Stormwater, and River Management department is leading a largescale project to rejuvenate the Blinkwater Stream in Camps Bay. The project aims to repair the concretelined channel, construct two silt basins upstream to trap large boulders, and equip the city to better resist future weather adversities. The innovative project, which integrates several detailed strategies, reflects the city’s commitment to sustainability and proactive infrastructure maintenance.
A rare honey badger, also known as a ratel, was sighted near the University of Cape Town’s Institute for Communities and Wildlife in Africa on April 3. This marks the first documented presence of a honey badger near UCT and adds a new dimension to Table Mountain’s biodiversity. Honey badgers are known for their ferocity and audacity, and their adaptable nature often puts them in conflict with humans. If honey badgers start breeding and expanding on Table Mountain, it could pose new problems for urban residents.
Two female hikers were swept out to sea and trapped in a rocky gulley along the Otter Trail in South Africa. Their hiking companion called for help, and a daring rescue operation involving four NSRI rescue swimmers equipped with PFDs successfully brought them back to shore. The incident demonstrated the importance of being prepared and working together in a crisis, and underscored the indomitable human spirit and the strength of collaboration.
Snake catcher Nick Evans had a unique challenge when he confronted a 2.4meter black mamba hiding inside a leaf blower in a shed. Despite his efforts, the snake refused to leave, so he had to dismantle the machine. Once the leaf blower was in pieces, the snake had no choice but to surrender, and Nick could release it back into nature. This unusual experience was a first for Nick, reminding him how varied and challenging his job can be.
Pi, a lion cub, was rescued from cruel conditions in Lebanon where he was exploited as a selfie prop and kept in chains with his mouth sealed shut. His journey to a sanctuary in South Africa highlights the fight against illegal pet ownership and the commendable efforts of organizations like Animals Lebanon and HSI Africa. Though the illicit pet trade still thrives, Pi’s story serves as a call for compassion, respect, and vigilance towards animal welfare.
Unveiling Cape Town’s Proactive Approach to Preserving the Environment: Reviving Spaanschemats River
Cape Town is taking a proactive approach to preserving the environment by reviving the Spaanschemats River. The city’s Water and Sanitation Directorate is manually gathering litter, unclogging drains, and curbing invasive plants to stimulate the reappearance of indigenous plant and animal life in the region. The project aligns with the city’s Mayoral Priority Programmes to improve inland water quality and mitigate flooding, and serves as a reminder of our shared duty to our natural resources and potential to effect positive change.
James Norbury is a talented filmmaker, photographer, and ultrarunner who narrowly escaped a dangerous confrontation with fire while tackling the 14km Box to Box Challenge on Table Mountain. His story serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of being prepared and maintaining situational awareness when exploring the wilderness. Norbury’s experience highlights the delicate balance between man and nature, emphasizing the need for respect, awareness, and readiness.
A 2,000yearold pot from the Khoekhoen people has been found at the Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve in the Western Cape, South Africa. The pot, believed to have been used for cooking, is made of red ochre clay and shows evidence of scorch marks. The discovery is a window into the cultural practices and human resilience of the Khoekhoen people and their coexistence with huntergatherer societies. Plans are being developed to create a 3D model of the pot for educational purposes and public awareness campaigns.
A Testament to Teamwork: The Hout Bay Rivers Catchment Forum’s Crusade for Water Conservation
The Hout Bay Rivers Catchment Forum is a shining example of community collaboration and teamwork. They work towards improving the health of the catchment area and conserving water by fostering cooperation among various stakeholders. In addition to monitoring and reporting pollution, the forum also provides valuable strategic contributions to find solutions. Their combined efforts with the City have resulted in the creation of the Hout Bay Pollution Abatement Strategy and Action Plan, which has already shown promising results in improving water quality. Friends of the Rivers of Hout Bay also play a vital role in eliminating litter and waste from the river, providing employment to locals and promoting sustainability. Overall, the HBRCF’s journey is one of collaboration, persistence, and sustainable solutions that can inspire other communities to make a difference.