17 April 2000
MINISTER MOOSA TO LAUNCH THE ECO VILLAGE PROJECT.
The Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism will hold an Earth Day Media Luncheon to announce government's commitment to creating the country's first Eco-Villages. The Media Luncheon will take place on Thursday, 20 April 2000 at 12:30pm at the Rosebank Hotel in Johannesburg, will announce DEAT's partnership with Earthyear Magazine for the Eco-Villages project.
The Eco-Villages will transform informal township settlements into models of sustainability that use natural and recycled materials, energy efficient fixtures, renewable energy systems, organic vegetable gardens, and have entrepreneurial ventures employing residents.
The Eco-Villages mark an exciting and innovative step in South Africa's continuing effort to address environmental and social justice issues. The South African government is excited about announcing our commitment to this project on Earth Day 2000 in support of the global call for clean energy and sustainable development in South Africa and worldwide.
Earlier this month, an Earthyear development team explored possible sites for the Eco-Villages. The environmental program 50/50 will cover this project on an ongoing basis. At the Luncheon to be attended by members of the Media and various stakeholders, Mr.Moosa will call for businesses and NGOs to pledge their support to make this project a reality. Minister Moosa, who would just have returned from Kenya will give a feedback report on the outcomes of CITES at this event.
Issued by the Ministry for Environmental Affairs and Tourism
For All Media Inquiries or if you wish to attend please contact
Onkgopotse JJ Tabane -[ Media Liaison Director]
O82 465 6166 or 021 465 7240