Oudtshoorn, 15 October 2024 – Oudtshoorn Municipality Promotes Water Awareness Campaign and Greening of the Greater Oudtshoorn Initiative for Environmental Sustainability and Community Engagement.
The Greater Oudtshoorn Municipality, in collaboration with the Department of Water and Sanitation, visited 5 schools in the Greater Oudtshoorn area between 07 October 2024 and 11 October 2024 to give water-saving awareness sessions at schools, educating learners on the importance of water conservation.
Throughout last, the Oudtshoorn Municipality and the Department of Water and Sanitation successfully hosted educational sessions at schools across the region, emphasizing the critical importance of water conservation. Learners were engaged in discussions on topics such as the water cycle, water sources, treatment processes, greywater reuse, and practical ways to save water in their daily lives. These sessions highlighted that conserving water is a collective responsibility.
At a later stage, students will participate in field excursions to explore local water treatment plants and learn about wastewater management, providing them with hands-on experience in understanding where their water comes from and how it is processed. These efforts aim to inspire students to become lifelong advocates for water conservation.
Chris Swart, Senior Manager of Water and Sanitation Services said that teaching young people about the importance of saving water helps them understand how to take care of our planet. “They can share this knowledge at home by telling their parents and siblings what they learned. This way, everyone can work together to save water.”
The presentation and sessions at the schools were done by the Department of Water and Sanitation, where they also incorporated some visual exercises with the children.
Coinciding with the Water Awareness Campaign, the Greening of the Greater Oudtshoorn Initiative, officially kicked of on 15 October 2024, marks a chapter in Oudtshoorn’s ongoing commitment to environmental conservation. Building on the momentum of Arbor Month 2024, this Greening Initiative calls on schools, residents, and businesses to actively participate in greening the community.
Under the theme, “Celebrating 30 Years of Freedom: Promoting Environmental Conservation and Sustainable Forest Management,” the Greening Initiative will see local schools get involved in planting indigenous trees. The goal is not only to enhance the local environment but also to raise awareness about the important role trees play in combating climate change and improving air quality
With the Water Awareness Campaign and the Greening Initiative, Oudtshoorn Municipality is adopting a thorough approach to environmental education and action. The focus on water conservation and tree planting illustrates the interconnectedness of natural resources and the importance of collective community efforts in creating a sustainable future.
“We are thrilled to see our youth engaging with these crucial topics. Both water and trees are foundational to life and our planet’s wellbeing. This initiative not only educates but empowers our community to take noticeable steps towards preserving our environment,” said Ambrose Carelse, Oudtshoorn Municipality’s Environmental Officer.
Residents are encouraged to join the movement by participating in tree-planting events and adopting water-saving practices at home. Together, these actions will contribute to a greener, more sustainable Greater Oudtshoorn.
For More Information
To learn more about upcoming tree-planting events, please contact:
- Ambrose Carelse, Environmental Officer, Oudtshoorn Municipality
Email: ambrose@oudtmun.gov.za
Phone: 044 203 3982