1 June 2012

Ms Edna Molewa, the Minister of Water and Environmental Affairs, will lead World Environment Day Celebrations in Bloemfontein, Free State on 05 June 2012.

World Environment Day was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1972 at the Stockholm Conference on the Human Environment to create, educate and raise awareness on environmental conservation.  In South Africa, June is celebrated as national Environment Month, with all citizens mobilised to implement integrated interventions to protect the environment. This year’s celebration is observed under the international theme, "Green Economy: Does It Include You?"

In line with the theme, the celebration in Mangaung will highlight the work done by the country and the benefits of moving towards a Green Economy. This year’s celebration comes after National Treasury’s allocation of R800 million for the Green Fund over the next 2 financial years, which represents a critical resource mechanism to achieve a just transition to a low carbon, resource efficient and job creating green economy growth path in South Africa as envisaged by the new growth path, climate change and National Sustainable Development policies.

The Minister will also provide more information on the funding to boost the Green Economy over the next two years to achieve a transition to low-carbon economy and the job opportunities which would be created. For the purposes of the Green Economy Initiative, UNEP has developed a working definition of a green economy as one that results in improved human well-being and social equity, while significantly reducing environmental risks and ecological scarcities. In its simplest expression, a green economy can be thought of as one which is low carbon, resource efficient and socially inclusive.

Environment month celebrations will take place countrywide with other key events being arranged for World Oceans Day on 08 June and World Day to Combat Desertification on 17 June.

Media is invited to the World Environment Day Celebrations

Date: Tuesday, 5 June 2012
Time: 09h00 - 13h00
Venue: Mangaung Outdoor Sport Centre, 18922 Phale Street, Rocklands, Bloemfontein Free State

RSVP:

Xolani Ngqoshela
Tel: 012-310 3078
E-mail: xngqoshela@environment.gov.za

Gaoapelelwe Moroane
Tel: 012 395 0811
E-mail: gmoroane@environment.gov.za

Banele Mabena
Tel: 012 395 1607
E-mail: smabena@environment.gov.za

For media queries, contact

Albi Modise
Cell: 083 490 2871