Better dams won’t provide a lasting solution - WWF February 2008 WWF commends DWAF on their programme to rehabilitate old dams, as opposed to building new ones. WWF believes that rehabilitating our existing dams will be far more cost effective and have lower social and ecological consequences. However, WWF also believes that Minister Hendricks reasoning that dams are going to solve a looming water crisis is flawed and that this thinking is analogous to saying that building batteries will solve the energy crisis we are currently experiencing.
Use blackout rage to drive sustainability - WWF February 2008 The power supply crisis and looming freshwater shortage are early warnings that we need to urgently rein in our use of our natural resources to avert the full impact of climate change, says the head of WWF South Africa, the conservation organisation.
Jubilation as Eco-Schools marks 5 years of success in SA January 2008 Now in its fifth year, the WESSA/WWF Eco-Schools Programme has become a valuable curriculum framework for schools to work toward sustainable development goals. Since the Eco-schools Programme was launched in South Africa in 2003 with funding from Nampak, the number of schools that have registered have increased from 56 to 882 in 2007.
Help WWF South Africa win! January 2008 WWF South Africa stands a chance of winning USD500,000 towards conserving South Africa’s environment, if enough South Africans take just 2 minutes to go online (before 17 March 2008) to commit their individual pledges towards saving the planet (www.thegreatestrace.com).
Mind the Gap: banks environmental policies dont add up January 2008 The global banking industry is taking concerted steps to protect against the credit crunch, but other efforts to future-proof banking are slow to emerge. Mind the Gap, a new report released in December 2007 by BankTrack, has revealed that while banks are developing socially and environmentally sound credit policies, progress is slow and erratic. Only two South African banks – Nedbank and Standard Bank – have rated in the report.
US Government Proposal Has Potential to Derail Bali Climate Conference, Warns WWF December 2007 Bali, Indonesia – A move by the US government could push the Bali climate negotiations to the brink of failure, WWF officials warned. The US proposal would eliminate language that called upon developed nations to consider specific, internationally binding, quantified reduction commitments, replacing it with text that calls upon countries to adopt any measures they deem appropriate.
Ministers Enter Bali Climate Change Countdown, WWF December 2007 THE LATEST – As environment ministers from around the world arrive in Bali for the UN climate negotiations, WWF calls on them to agree a blueprint for negotiations that will curb greenhouse gases and provide much needed support to poor countries who are on the frontline of the climate juggernaut.
Mid-Summit Update December 2007 Bali, Indonesia - The first week of talks at the UN Climate Change Conference in Bali showed satisfactory progress, says WWF.
Penguins in Peril as Climate Warms, WWF December 2007 Bali, Indonesia - The penguin population of Antarctica is under pressure from global warming, says WWFs latest report.
The report, Antarctic Penguins and Climate Change, shows that the four populations of penguins that breed on the Antarctic continent are under escalating pressure. For some, global warming is taking away precious ground on which penguins raise their young. For others, food has become increasingly scarce because of warming in conjunction with overfishing.
Climate Change Speeds up Amazon’s destruction, says WWF December 2007 Bali, Indonesia – A vicious feedback loop of climate change and deforestation could wipe out or severely damage nearly 60 per cent of the Amazon forest by 2030, says a new report from WWF.
Mixed reaction to diving ban from WWF December 2007 WWF, the conservation organisation, has reacted with mixed feelings to the announcement this week that the Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism proposes a diving ban in prescribed areas along most of the Western Cape coastline in an attempt to curb abalone poaching.
Prove You’re a Leader - Commit to an Ambitious Bali Mandate, WWF December 2007 THE LATEST – We need to see real leadership here in Bali. Government delegations must cut emissions from the rich, one third below 1990 levels by 2020. The political momentum is building. The EU, who committed in March 2007 to a cut of up to 30 percent, is being joined by others in its ambition. Several emerging economies are supporting formal negotiations and have promised to do their fair share.
Put clean technology where it’s needed, says WWF December 2007 THE LATEST – Technology transfer is one of the key elements in deploying solutions to climate change around the world. New technology to reduce carbon emissions is becoming more affordable every day, but the technology needs to be widely available to the countries, companies, and communities that most need it.
THE LATEST – As delegates make their way to the UNs Climate Change Summit on the tropical island paradise of Bali, they must not let the surroundings fool them. Paradise is under threat from rising sea levels, warming oceans and increases in extreme weather events. WWF says that developed nations should take the lead and take greater responsibility in emission reductions. Financial resources will have to be provided by the international community to help developing countries adapt to the damaging effects of climate change.
Prestigious WWF Conservation Award goes to Dr John Hanks and Dr Guy Preston December 2007 WWF South Africa’s Lonmin Conservation Award recognises outstanding contributions to the protection and conservation of South Africa’s environment. It was first awarded in 1981 and has since been awarded to a long and illustrious list of South Africa’s most notable conservationists; most recently Nicky and Strilli Openheimer in 2006.
GET OUT, GET SHOOTING AND WIN WITH BEELD, CANON AND WWF November 2007 Grab your camera and head for South Africa’s wild places. This holiday, by capturing the environment, can win you magnificent prizes and your images might even be printed in Beeld newspaper! At the same time you will be supporting WWF, the conservation organisation.
New Nedbank solar billboard lights the way for Athlone youth November 2007 For most companies, advertising is a means of creating awareness and growing a customer base. For Nedbank, it’s both these things, but it’s also far more. The bank that promises to ‘Make Things Happen’ has done just that with the recent unveiling of its second ‘solar billboard’ in Athlone in the Western Cape.
Marine industries meet to decide on proposed Namibian Island Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) November 2007 On Wednesday, 13 November 2007, in a landmark meeting, diverse marine industries and government departments, met for the first time to decide on a plan to protect Namibias Islands marine biodiversity from Hollamsbird Island near Meob Bay in the north to Sinclair Island near Chamais Bay in the south. Industry representation included the rock lobster fishing, mariculture, eco-tourism, marine diamond mining sectors, whilst government was represented by its Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources, Ministry of Mines and Energy and the Ministry of Environment and Tourism as well as regional and town council members.
Don’t let abalone happen to crayfish November 2007 With the start of the crayfish season today (15 November), WWFs Southern African Sustainable Seafood Initiative (SASSI) appeals to the public to abide by fishing regulations and urges business and individuals to not support poaching by buying crayfish from recreational fishers, or by buying undersized crayfish. Failure to do this could see crayfish follow the dismal path set by abalone.
Too early to tell on Black Sea oil spill November 2007 Gland, Switzerland: The full environmental impacts of yesterday’s oil spill in the Black Sea would not be known for some time, the global conservation organization WWF said today.
Environmental Awards winners give hope for the future November 2007 In the Natural Environment category, the award went to Inge Kotze and Joan Isham of the amazing Biodiversity and Wine Initiative (BWI). BWI is a partnership between the wine industry and a number of conservation organisations.
LOCAL COMMUNITY RECEIVE BLACK RHINO November 2007 History was made today when black rhinos were released on to Somkhanda Game Reserve in northern KwaZulu-Natal. Somkhanda is the first community-owned land to become a partner in the WWF/ Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Black Rhino Range Expansion Project. 11 black rhino will be release altogether.
Superb new birding route awaits KwaZulu-Natal visitors November 2007 Birders drawn to the famed ornithological bounty of KwaZulu-Natal have a new route that showcases not only the startling diversity of the province’s birdlife, but also its range of habitats and its hospitality.
Birders and community soar with new aerial forest boardwalk November 2007 For birders, the newly opened Marutswa Aerial Boardwalk near the KwaZulu-Natal village of Bulwer is a place of delight and discovery. But it’s also a superb example of how conservation and economic development can work in harmony.
New Karkloof Conservation Centre opens to birders’ acclaim November 2007 The newly opened Southern KwaZulu-Natal Birding Route is already being described in glowing terms by local and visiting birders. Singled out for acclaim is the Karkloof Conservation Centre, which is one of the anchor attractions on the route.
WWF calls for moratorium on Mediterranean tuna November 2007 Rome, Italy - - WWF, the global conservation organisation, is calling for an immediate 3-year closure of the Mediterranean bluefin tuna fishery, following a season of unprecedented illegal and uncontrolled fishing which has resulted in massive over-quota catches.
WWF reactive statement to announcement by Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism about complete closure of abalone fishery October 2007 Following the announcement by Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Marthinus van Schalkwyk, on the complete closure of abalone fishery WWF would like to issue the following short statement: WWF welcomes the seriousness with which the Minister has treated this issue and the listing of South Africa’s abalone stocks on Cities Appendix III earlier this year. However, WWF would argue that legislation is only one part of a multi faceted strategy that is required to ensure the long term sustainability of the abalone fishery.
WWF applauds Nobel winners October 2007 Gland, Switzerland: The Norwegian Nobel Committee has recognized climate change as the worlds major challenge of the early 21st century, WWF said today.
WWF lauds Namibian plan to cut seabird deaths and urges SA action October 2007 The WWF Responsible Fisheries Programme welcomes Namibias adoption of a National Plan of Action for reducing incidental mortality of seabirds in longline fisheries (NPOA-Seabirds), the first for the region. It has urged South Africa to follow suit.
WWF heartened by moves to manage South East Atlantic fisheries October 2007 WWF, the conservation organization, has congratulated the South East Atlantic Fisheries Organisation (SEAFO) on progress towards an ecosystem approach to fisheries management in the region. The South East Atlantic Fisheries Organisation, SEAFO held its fourth Annual Commission Meeting in Windhoek, Namibia this week. The objective of the Convention was to ensure the long-term conservation and sustainable use of fishery resources in the South East Atlantic.
Berlin, Germany: Nobel Laureates, scientists, and policy and decision makers will gather at an international symposium in Potsdam, Germany, from tomorrow to discuss solutions to the most urgent sustainability issues facing the world, including climate change.
Overcoming our environmental overdraft October 2007 Imagine for a moment that the entire world has one annual bank account which stores natural resources rather than money. As with a normal bank account, interest can be earned on capital savings. But then imagine that the world spends more than the account earns in interest year upon year. Clearly, the outcome of such indiscretion will result in the erosion of the capital base, and the world will go into forever increasing debt. Measured in terms of the annual calendar, today marks precisely such an event.
OCTOBER 6 is ECOLOGICAL DEBT DAY October 2007 Global Footprint Network today revealed October 6 is Ecological Debt day – the day when humanity has consumed all the resources the planet will produce this year.
Ban Ki-Moon shows real climate leadership - WWF September 2007 New York, United States – The UN high-level climate change meeting in New York today declared that an ambitious comprehensive climate agreement will be negotiated within the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, building on the Kyoto Protocol, by no later than 2009.
New animal and plant species found in Vietnam September 2007 Gland, Switzerland – Scientists have discovered 11 new species of animals and plants in a remote area in central Vietnam, WWF said today.
Wildlife sculpture auction benefits South African conservation September 2007 If theres one place for sober science and creative flair to find common ground its in a passion for nature, specifically the nature of Africa. Seldom has this pairing been as successful as in the work of acclaimed sculptor, Dylan Lewis and WWF, the conservation organisation.
Science-based passion for nature drives new WWF chief September 2007 “Good conservation is underpinned by sound knowledge.” This is the mantra of Dr Morné du Plessis, CEO of WWF South Africa as of 1st September 2007.
New National Botanical Garden to be established August 2007 The Minister of the national Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEAT) is proud to announce the establishment of South Africa’s ninth national botanical garden on the outskirts of Nieuwoudtville in the Northern Cape, South Africa. The new garden, to be established on the farm Glenlyon, comprises over 6,300 ha of land on the Bokkeveld Plateau, and is world renowned for its incredible diversity of bulbous plants.
WWF Sanlam Partnership rises to SA’s freshwater challenge August 2007 WWF, the conservation organisation and financial services group Sanlam today (Tuesday, 28 August) launched a partnership to promote wise management of the countrys marine and freshwater resources. The WWF Sanlam Living Waters Partnership will see Sanlam investing over R15 Million in marine and freshwater initiatives over the next five years. At a lunchtime debate the two organisations brought together industry, government and the private sector to discuss the critical importance of water management in the social development and economic growth of South Africa.
Time to Rethink Investment August 2007 22 August, Midrand –WWF’s Trade and Investment Programme (TIP) launched its "Rethink Investment in (South) Africa" report at the Environmental Goods and Services forum briefing held this morning in Midrand.
11 000 thumbs-ups for greener seafood choices August 2007 The countrys cellphone users have taken to a service that helps them make environmentally sustainable seafood choices, well, like fish to water.
The FishMS line puts information at your thumb-tips on whether the fillet you fancy is in plentiful supply, best avoided or downright illegal, just by texting the seafood name to 079-499-8795.
Morocco cracks down on illegal fishing – WWF July 2007 Rome, Italy - - The Moroccan government has brought into force a tough law that will punish fishermen who continue to use driftnets in its waters. WWF congratulates Morocco on this strong action against illegal and destructive fishing in the Mediterranean Sea.
Can a new generation tread more lightly than we did? July 2007 Economic growth, climate change and a growing middle class are just three of the factors that make environmental education crucial for Southern Africa in the next few years, writes Hettie Gets.
Individuals can make a difference to save the planet July 2007 5 July, Gauteng – Students in panda outfits were spotted at major traffic intersections in and around Johannesburg distributing energy efficient light bulbs.
WWF photographs three-legged Sumatran tiger July 2007 Jakarta, Indonesia – A WWF camera trap inside an Indonesian national park has captured photographs of a Sumatran tiger in the wild that appears to have escaped from a snare by cutting its paw off.
Just 400 days to go for energy Gold, WWF tells athletes July 2007 Beijing, China: Offsetting carbon emissions caused by flying to the Olympic Games just takes a few mouse clicks on a climate calculator, says WWF, the global conservation organization.
Tam Ky, Quang Nam, Vietnam (July 3rd, 2007) – A team of scientists from WWF and Conservation International (CI) has discovered the world’s largest known population of grey-shanked doucs (Pygathrix cinerea), increasing chances that the Endangered monkey can be saved from extinction.
Marine industries meet to decide on plan to protect oceans June 2007 On Friday, 22 June 2007, in a landmark meeting, diverse marine industries and government departments, met for the first time to decide on a plan to protect South Africas offshore marine biodiversity. Industry representation included the major offshore fishing sectors, the petroleum industry and the marine diamond mining sector, whilst government was represented by its Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism and the Department of Minerals and Energy.
One river’s flood is another’s drought – river basin transfers threaten world’s most vital resource June 2007 Gland, Switzerland - Increasingly popular schemes to pour water from one river into another less endowed are putting the very source of life at risk, says WWF in a new report entitled Pipedreams? Inter-basin transfers and water shortages. The report from the global conservation organization shows that inter-basin transfers are inevitably costly schemes that damage the natural environment, interrupting flows between rivers and compromising their ability to provide food and water.
Namibia behind WWF bycatch recommendations June 2007 It is estimated that as many as 34 000 seabirds, 4 200 sea turtles, and over 7 million sharks and skates are killed in longline fishing operations in the Benguela Current Large Marine Ecosystem (BCLME) annually.
De Beers supports development of OMPA network June 2007 JOHANNESBURG, 21 JUNE 2007 - De Beers today announced its intention to co-operate with WWF, the conservation organisation, and the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) in the auditing of offshore biodiversity, the accurate mapping of threats to offshore biodiversity and in support of the identification of a representative offshore MPA network. De Beers regards itself as a responsible corporate citizen and is committed to the conservation of biodiversity in the areas where it operates.
A new WWF study released today finds that farmed salmon in Chiles unique Patagonian lakes has doubled in the last decade, contaminating them with nutrient pollution, invasive species, disease, and harmful chemicals.
CITES: Commercially traded species big losers –WWF/TRAFFIC June 2007 The Hague, The Netherlands – The 14th CITES Conference ended today with TRAFFIC and WWF applauding some sound conservation decisions, but ruing other missed opportunities.
14th meeting of the Conference of the Parties (CoP 14) to CITES June 2007 ELEPHANTS: African elephant range states agreed to a nine-year suspension of ivory trading and four Southern African countries – South Africa, Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe – have been given permission to sell stocks of ivory that have been registered before January 31st 2007.
18 year ivory deadlock broken – WWF/TRAFFIC June 2007 The Hague, The Netherlands – African range states have come together to break an 18 year ivory impasse, a significant move that is applauded by WWF and TRAFFIC, the wildlife trade monitoring network. There had been much division across Africa going into the CITES meeting.
Breeding tigers for trade soundly rejected – WWF/TRAFFIC June 2007 The Hague, The Netherlands – Raising captive tigers for trade in tiger parts was rejected by CITES member countries today and China was urged to phase out its large-scale commercial tiger farms, a major victory for wild tiger conservation.
CITES backs red, pink and other corals June 2007 The Hague, The Netherlands – Red, pink and other coral species in the genus Corallium will be better protected from over-exploitation after CITES today adopted a proposal from the US to list Corallium in Appendix II of the Convention. Appendix II allows trade in a species under strict conditions.
14th meeting of the Conference of the Parties (CoP 14) to CITES June 2007 ELEPHANTS: Elephants became a confusing issue on the agenda with five Information documents from several governments added at the 11th hour before the issue came to the floor on Tuesday afternoon. There had been an earlier report back before and after lunch on ETIS (Elephant Trade Information System) and MIKE (Monitoring of Illegal Killing of Elephant) systems.
Drinking the oceans not best option for thirsty world- WWF June 2007 Gland, Switzerland - Making drinking water out of sea water is a growing trend but a potentially insidious threat to the environment that could also exacerbate climate change, says WWF in a global review of desalination plants worldwide.
The Hague – On the eve of a discussion here by world leaders on illegal trade in tiger products, the CITES governing body announced that it has asked the Chinese government to investigate one of its tiger farms implicated for illegally selling tiger meat.
14th meeting of the Conference of the Parties (CoP 14) to CITES June 2007 Sawfish: The international trade in sawfish – large rays related to sharks, has been banned today. All species of sawfish were included in CITES Appendix I, except for Pristis microdon, which is in Appendix II (but no trade is allowed except for live animals to for conservation exhibition purposes).
CITES: Brighter future for the European eel June 2007 The Hague, The Netherlands – The future of the European eel looks brighter after governments representatives attending the CITES Conference accepted a proposal from the European Union to list this fish species on Appendix II of the convention. Appendix II allows trade in a species under strict conditions.
Conservation Bite for Sawfish, WWF/TRAFFIC June 2007 The Hague, The Netherlands – Trade restrictions have been approved for sawfish – large rays related to sharks, with distinctive toothed snouts.
14th meeting of the Conference of the Parties (CoP 14) to CITES June 2007 SHARKS: Two shark proposals were voted upon today – the spiny dogfish and porbeagle. WWF and TRAFFIC have both been strongly advocating for support for the EUs proposals to include both species in CITES Appendix II.
Trade convention failing sharks, WWF/TRAFFIC June 2007 The Hague, The Netherlands – Two shark species highly prized for their meat and fins have not gained trade protection under CITES, the Convention for International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora.
Sweden dialogue to start work on G8 climate deal June 2007 THE LATEST – The leaders of all G8 countries now recognize that emerging economies have a different responsibility for addressing emissions growth from industrialized ones.
Carbon-crazed Canada on course to fail Kyoto June 2007 Canada will fail to achieve its Kyoto targets due to the proposed expansion of its oil sands resources in Alberta says WWF in a report released today. WWF is calling for a moratorium on further expansion of oil sands production and for oil companies to produce decarbonisation strategies.
Public pressure on climate pushes G8 closer to cooler world June 2007 Heiligendamm, Germany – The G8 agreement on climate change contains important steps forward with all G8 countries agreeing to negotiate a UN deal to reduce emissions in the long-term by 2009, says WWF. Heads of State, however, failed to give concrete figures and timelines.
The G8 saving the climate – Good, not so good, or bad? June 2007 THE LATEST – G8 Sherpas have been negotiating intensely over the past night, to resolve remaining open questions, many of them on climate change. At the same time, voices from different heads of state and government have differed widely. Climate change is scheduled to be negotiated amongst the G8 leaders at 4 p.m. this afternoon. WWF provides a measure for success or failure.
World’s largest photo mosaic of tiger unveiled at CITES; World leaders urged to end tiger trade June 2007 The Hague, The Netherlands – A two-storey-high photo mosaic of a tiger, created from personal photos of nearly 25,000 tiger lovers worldwide, was unveiled here today to urge world leaders to end all trade in tigers. Individuals from more than 140 countries contributed their pictures to it.
CITES: Tropical tree left stranded June 2007 The Hague, The Netherlands – On the fourth day of the CITES Conference, the European Union withdrew its proposal to include Cedrela – a group of tropical trees species found in Latin America – in CITES Appendix II, which allows trade in a species under strict conditions.
Alarming upsurge in rhino poaching in key African countries, TRAFFIC/WWF June 2007 The Hague, The Netherlands – An increase in the volume of rhino horn entering illegal trade from Africa since 2000 could be placing some rhino populations at serious risk, according to new research from TRAFFIC, the wildlife trade monitoring network.
14th meeting of the Conference of the Parties (CoP 14) to CITES June 2007 Black rhino: Kenya submitted a proposal to repeal a resolution adopted at CoP13 which approved an annual export quota of five hunting trophies of adult male black rhinoceros from South Africa and five from Namibia.
Morné du Plessis appointed as WWF CEO June 2007 WWF South Africa, the conservation organization, has announced the appointment of distinguished conservationist Dr Morné du Plessis as CEO.
Conservation initiative a corker for SA wines globally June 2007 The equivalent of half the country’s entire area under vines is now under conservation, a milestone that’s boosting the international reputation of the country’s wine for its unique variety, and of the wine industry for its environmentally responsibility.
WWF announces partnership with the Coca-Cola Company June 2007 INTERNATIONAL, BEIJING, June 5, 2007 – The Coca-Cola Company today pledged to lead its global beverage operations, including those of its franchise bottlers, to replace the water it uses in its beverages and their production. The Company will focus its actions in three core areas 1 reducing the water used to produce its beverages, 2 recycling water used for beverage manufacturing processes, and 3 replenishing water in communities and nature. The pledge was announced at the annual meeting of WWF in Beijing, where the Company launched a multi-year partnership with WWF to conserve and protect freshwater resources.
2007 Environment Week: Time to turn Commitment to Action June 2007 Johannesburg, 4 June 2007 – As National Environment Week kicks off today, global environmental leader, WWF and national environmental campaign Indalo Yethu are teaming up to help individuals and organisations change their behaviour and positively influence the environment. Similar activities are taking place worldwide, as people around the planet get ready to celebrate World Environment Day tomorrow.
WWF talks with leaders on World Environment Day June 2007 Beijing, China/Gland, Switzerland: World leaders, corporate partners and conservationists will join forces today in a renewed focus on solving some of the most urgent issues of our time, halting climate change and living within the natural resources of the planet.
China Gears Action to Address Climate Change June 2007 Beijing, China – China has remarkably stepped forward in addressing climate change by releasing its first Climate Change National Action Plan on June 4, 2007.
Canada joins US as worst performer on climate change – WWF June 2007 Berlin, Germany - The US and Canada come in last under WWFs Climate Scorecards, which rate each of the G8 countries performance on climate change. The USs bottom ranking underscores a disconnect Between President Bushs announcement last week and ongoing US attempts to block progress at G8 negotiations aimed at stopping dangerous climate change, says WWF.
14th meeting of the Conference of the Parties (CoP 14) to CITES June 2007 Livelihoods: A side event was organized by Flora and Fauna International on the topic of CITES and Livelihoods – Document 14 – which WWF fully supports as it is in line with its global mission.
Two important issues were discussed at the CITES Standing Committee which was held on the eve of the Conference of Parties: The exports of Peruvian mahogany and the so called one-off ivory sale.
UN wildlife convention gives green light to ivory sale June 2007 The Hague, The Netherlands – A limited sale of ivory has been approved by a committee ahead of this weeks Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) which opens officially Sunday.
Get smart: G8 should promote energy efficiency - WWF May 2007 Gland, Switzerland – Despite the enormous potential of energy efficiency to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect the planet from dangerous climate change, too many of the existing efficiency policies and measures in the G8 industrialized countries are ineffective, WWFs latest report reveals.
Grasp the sustainability nettle to grow, WWF urges banks May 2007 Making the financial sector more environmentally sustainable may not be easy, but financial institutions that ignore the trend risk their reputations, says WWF, the conservation organisation.
Time to close a can of lions May 2007 This WWF statement is in response to Minister Marthinus Van Schalkwyks publication of the draft Norms and Standards for the hunting of listed species in South Africa.
Five years the key to planet’s future May 2007 Gland, Switzerland: The world has more than enough sustainable energy and technology to curb climate change, but only if key decisions are made within the next five years, according to new research by WWF.
Let’s go to work on Monday and stop climate change – WWF May 2007 Bangkok, Thailand – Nothing should keep governments from getting to work and stopping dangerous climate change, after the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) released its report on options for reducing CO2 emissions in Bangkok today, says WWF.
Stopping climate change is possible, says WWF May 2007 Bangkok, Thailand – While some governments try to delay action, the switch to a cleaner and more efficient energy system is already underway, according to a new report from WWF.
True cost of coal: More expensive than you think - WWF May 2007 The WWF briefing "Are the costs of using coal higher than the cost of cleaning it up?" shows that the growing use of coal for power generation is the biggest threat to climate-friendly development in both industrialized and emerging economies. Focussing on the US, Europe, China and India, the briefing shows all countries to be increasingly dependent on coal. Importantly the cost of electricity from coal is expected to double by 2030 while clean technologies like solar and geothermal power and solid biomass will soon be cost-competitive with conventional coal.
Window of opportunity closing, so act now - WWF May 2007 The facts are clear, a rapid reduction of emissions will help us slow the rise of global temperatures. Delaying such decisive action will lead to a dangerous build-up of greenhouse gases that could trigger feedback loops: melting of permafrost in the Arctic, for example, is releasing frozen methane, which is a powerful climate warming gas. Such an event could speed up climate change dramatically.
We Can Afford to Stop Global Warming - WWF May 2007 New technology to reduce carbon emissions is becoming more affordable every day – action against climate change would only cost an average of 0.1 per cent of global GDP per year until 2030. The report from the IPCC to be discussed in Bangkok this week should explain in clear and simple terms that we can stop global warming in a cost effective manner.
WWF calls for lucid thinking regarding the future of Tsitsikamma MPA April 2007 The WWF Sanlam Marine Programme is calling for rational, transparent and science-based decision making regarding the future of South Africas oldest Marine Protected Area (MPA), Tsitsikamma. This is in response to announcements in the press last week that the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEAT) intended opening parts of the MPA to recreational fishing.
Dream Calf April 2007 It was literally a dream come true for the Black Rhino Range Expansion Project when the first calf conceived on a project site was born this week. On Sunday night, ranger Thomas Khumalo dreamed that a black rhino calf was born on a certain section of Munyawana Game Reserve. He had checked the area only a day before, so without the dream would probably not have been there for another month. But he decided to look again, and sure enough, there was a one-day old calf. The calf has been named iPhupho meaning Dream.
Pick ‘n Pay joins WWF greener seafood drive April 2007 Ever stood before a fishmongers counter, spoilt for choice and with no idea what to choose, but wanting to limit your environmental impact? Youre not alone: worldwide, consumers are increasingly aware of the power in the way they spend their money and are willing to make sustainable, eco-friendly choices. Pick n Pay is the first major South African retailer to engage with WWFs Southern African Sustainable Seafood Initiative (SASSI) in order to improve the sustainability of its seafood business. Firstly, it has now joined The Green Trust, a partnership between WWF and Nedbank, as a co-sponsor of SASSI for the next three years.
New report to reduce needless deaths of seabirds, sea turtles and sharks April 2007 WWF and BirdLife have released a new report that for the first time assesses the impact of longline fishing on vulnerable species of seabirds, sharks, and sea turtles in the Benguela Ecosystem, stretching up the west coasts of South Africa, Namibia and Angola. Despite global concern about the impact of fisheries on these species, over more than a decade, very few regional assessments such as this exist. The majority of albatross and sea turtle species and many shark species are listed as threatened with extinction by the IUCN, with fisheries impacts being cited as a major cause.
UN Security Council should take lead on climate change - WWF April 2007 International: Gland, Switzerland - WWF expects the first ever discussions of climate change in the UN Security Council to give clear direction to UN agencies as to how to respond to this growing threat to human development. At the request of the UK chairman, the UN Security Council will hold an unprecedented debate on climate change and its impacts on security in its meeting of Tuesday 17 April 2007.
Harvesting by the full moon April 2007 Nokhaya Mphehleleli is 26 years old and is part of the WWF Coffee Bay Mussel Rehabilitation Programme that has received crucial funding from The Green Trust. She was born in this lower Nenga region in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. She tells me that people have been dependent on the seashores wealth for centuries. In the Coffee Bay – Hole in the Wall area along the Wild Coast of South Africa, mussels have traditionally been part of the local people’s diet for many, many years.
Natural wonders feel the heat, warns WWF April 2007 International: Brussels, Belgium ¬– From the Amazon to the Himalayas, ten of the worlds greatest natural wonders face destruction if the climate continues to warm at the current rate, warns WWF. In its latest briefing, Saving the worlds natural wonders from climate change, the global conservation organization reports on how the devastating impacts of global warming are damaging the worlds greatest natural wonders.
GRASSLANDS ARE LIFE April 2007 If we don’t get water-wise, South Africa will experience a life-threatening shortage of water for domestic, agricultural and industrial use by 2025. What most of us dont realise is that just as Water Is Life, so too are grasslands: Grasslands Are Life. Grasslands are vital water catchment areas that store water either as ground water or in wetlands, slowly releasing it throughout the year. Grasslands offer the most natural, cost-effective method of supplying our country with high quality water.
GRASSLANDS: GOOD FOR US ALL April 2007 Through the land reform process, Nkosi Mabaso and his Mabaso community – has successfully claimed 3 500 hectares of their ancestral land in the Green Trusts Enkangala Grasslands Project region. Enkangala is a key water catchment zone spanning 1.6-million hectares of grasslands between KwaZulu Natal, Mpumalanga and the Free State.
WWF welcomes SA hake’s global environmental coup March 2007 WWF has welcomed the addition of Sea Harvest frozen hake fillets this week as the 500th worldwide Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certified sustainable product. The conservation organisation believes that this milestone is testimony to the growing demand among consumers for environmentally sustainable products. Arming consumers with information to make wise seafood choices is a central objective of the WWFs Southern African Sustainable Seafood Initiative (SASSI).
WWF to push for protection of the Ross Sea March 2007 International: The Ross Sea near Antarctica should be declared a Marine Protected Area (MPA) to help protect it from unsustainable fishing, marine pollution, climate change and the spread of invasive plants and animals, says WWF at the start of the 2007-2008 International Polar Year.
The conservation organisation today launched a global campaign to create a network of marine protected areas in the Southern Ocean by 2012 in the face of increasing threats to fragile Antarctic marine habitats.
WWF and EMOA respond to the release of the Norms & Standards for elephant management February 2007 This WWF/EMOA joint statement is in response to Minister Marthinus Van Schalkwyks publication of the draft Norms and Standards for the Management of Elephants in South Africa for public comment, at Addo Elephant National Park, on 28 February 2007.
WWF and EMOA welcome these Norms and Standards for the Management of Elephants in South Africa which will provide a uniform framework for the management of elephants in South Africa.
IPCC rings the alarm bell – Cut emissions now, warns WWF February 2007 International: Paris, France – Governments must negotiate deeper emission cuts for CO2 and other greenhouse gases, says WWF following the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Changes (IPCC) report on the urgency to slow climate change and keep increases in global temperatures as low as possible. “The IPCC report embodies an extraordinary scientific consensus that climate change is already upon us, and that human activities are the cause,” says James P. Leape, Director General of WWF International. “It is a clarion call to governments to act urgently to slash emissions.”
Sea Turtle Strides February 2007 “Were thrilled to announce that over the 2005/6 season we recorded over 2 000 Loggerhead nestings in the project area. This is the highest number recorded in 43 years,” says Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife manager, Richard Penn Sawers, who is also the project leader of the WWF/Green Trust Turtle Monitoring and Community Development Project. South Africa has the worlds longest-running programme for the monitoring of two of the largest sea turtles – the Leatherback and the Loggerhead.
Aliwal Shoal for all February 2007 Aliwal Shoal - an offshore reef south of Durban – is one of the worlds top dive sites.
It supports spectacular coral species, endemic East African reef fish, Tiger Sharks, Bottlenose Dolphins, Humpback Whales, Manta Rays, Sea Turtles and Ragged Tooth Sharks – the flagship species of the reef.
In celebration of Aliwal Shoal and to highlight the importance of conserving its extraordinarily rich marine biodiversity, the Green Trust has funded a superlative new Dive Guide to Aliwal Shoal.
Cape Town, South Africa, February 5 2007. . . South Africa has taken a decisive step towards stemming the illegal harvest and trade of its endemic abalone species, Haliotis midae, by listing it in Appendix III of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). The listing, which comes into effect on 3 May 2007, requires all future consignments of H. midae, more commonly known as perlemoen, in international trade to be accompanied by CITES documentation.
Geelbek’s new bird hide to showcase West Coast birding bounty December 2006 A new bird hide in the West Coast National Park gives visitors access to an exciting variety of resident and migratory birds, showcasing the benefits of preserving the birds natural habitats. A partnership between WWF, the conservation organisation, the Cape Bird Club and South African National Parks enabled construction of the new Elizabeth Harding Bird Hide near Geelbek in the West Coast National Park. It can accommodate about 20 birders and is strategically positioned with advice from Prof. Phil Hockey, the chief editor of Roberts VII, the acclaimed, goliath handbook of southern African birds.
Lus vir Vis? WWF se SMS-boodskapdiens help jou om die regte seekos te kies December 2006 Jou selfoon kan jou help om die regte keuse te maak en jou impak op ons seelewe te beperk. Deur van die SMS-diens van Suid-Afrikaanse Volhoubare Seekos Inisiatief (SASSI) gebruik te maak kan jy ingeligte keuses maak as dit kom by visgeregte. Tik eenvoudig die naam van ‘n vissoort (bv. kabeljou) in op jou selfoon en stuur na die nommer 079 499 8795 en jy kry blitsvinnig ‘n boodskap terug wat aandui wat die status van die visspesie is.
Hngry 4 fsh? WWF’s FishMS text line helps you choose the right seafood December 2006 You can bank with it, play music, send text messages, browse online and even make calls. Now your cellphone can also help you make choices that limit your impact on our oceans. A new tool from SASSI (The Southern African Sustainable Seafood Initiative) helps you make informed choices about the fish you eat. Simply text the name of a fish to the number 079-499-8795 and you will immediately get a message telling you whether to tuck in, think twice or avoid completely. It is called SASSI FishMS and it puts WWFs knowledge of seafood resources at your thumb-tips.
Support marine conservation and receive an Aliwal Shoal Dive Guide! November 2006 Aliwal Shoal, rated as one of the top ten dive sites worldwide, is situated 5km off the Kwazulu-Natal south coast near Umkomaas, was proclaimed a Marine Protected Area (MPA) in 2004. The Shoal is home to diverse fish fauna (some of which are both endemic and threatened) as well as 15 species of hard corals and four species of soft corals.
Winners of coveted conservation award announced at WWF AGM November 2006 Nicky and Strilli Oppenheimer are to receive the prestigious Lonmin WWF-SA Conservation Award for 2006 for promoting a culture of sustainable use and preservation of our natural heritage. At its Annual General Meeting on Friday (10 November), the conservation organisation’s CEO in SA, Tony Frost, said: “Each year we entertain nominations for the coveted medal but we only award it when we are certain there is a worthy recipient. For these reasons it is by no means an annual award.”
Climate change has birds out on a limb – WWF November 2006 WWF International: Nairobi, Kenya – A new report released today by WWF finds a clear and escalating pattern of climate change impacts on bird species around the world, suggesting a trend towards a major bird extinction from global warming. The report, Bird Species and Climate Change: The Global Status Report, reviews more than 200 scientific articles on birds in every continent to build up a global picture of climate change impacts.
EU must step-up and clarify commitment to speedy progress in climate talks, says CAN November 2006 WWF International: Nairobi, Kenya –As Ministers board their planes to Nairobi, the Climate Action Network (CAN) warns that the EU has a clear duty to lead the way in outlining a timeline for the international climate talks that ensures deeper reductions are agreed in the next two years. “The EUs murky position is causing confusion and mistrust,” says Greenpeace. “They need to clear the waters and set a high level of ambition for the Nairobi negotiations. Anything less brings their claimed leadership into question.”
European Community pulls the rug on South Pacific Negotiations November 2006 WWF International: Hobart, Tasmania – Today a number of fishing nations led by the European Community refused to agree to any responsible fishing management measures in the South Pacific Ocean as the negotiations associated with the interim management of the high seas in the region foundered. Despite the best interests and efforts of the United States, Australia, Chile, Pacific island countries and New Zealand, which stepped up to the challenge of voluntarily restraining their fishing effort and calling for sound ecological management, the European Community refused to accept interim measures to ensure the sustainability of fish stocks and to protect the broader marine environment.
The climate debate heats up in Nairobi November 2006 The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change is holding its annual Conference in Nairobi over the next two weeks. Its findings bear direct implications for South Africas quest to lead Africa’s economic development. The Conference of the Parties to the UNFCCC serving as the meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol have already held their first round of plenary meetings and closed specialist workshops.
Report showcased in Nairobi shows scale of climate urgency November 2006 Rising sea levels as a result of climate change could displace around 70 million Africans this century, catapulting the continent into an unparalleled humanitarian catastrophe. This grim scenario is one of the findings of a little-celebrated UNEP Report, termed the Ghana Report and released in Ghana in May has been profiled at a side event at the Climate Change Conference in Nairobi. When the report was presented to a modest international audience, participants voiced shock at its implications.
No time to delay - look to Kyoto’s future now, WWF November 2006 THE LATEST – World leaders must set the agenda for deeper emission cuts, says WWF. There’s no time to wait as global warming is devastating freshwater resources. Mount Kenya, this countrys biggest water reservoir, has seen ice cover shrink rapidly as temperatures warmed over recent years. Also a new report from WWF shows that Canadas water resources are in danger because of global warming.
UN streamlining proposal a chance to walk the talk – WWF November 2006 WWF International: Gland, Switzerland - The world has a chance to get serious about the environment in a concerted manner with the release of the UNs System Wide Coherence report today, according to WWF.
“Delivering as one, the high-level proposal to streamline program delivery by the UN promises to put environment firmly at the centre of development decision making,” said James Leape, Director General of WWF International.
The Southern African Wildlife College Graduation Ceremony 2006 October 2006 The Southern African Wildlife College is celebrating 10 years of conservation education this year, this event culminated in a new total of approximately 2,200 students having passed through the Southern African Wildlife College situated in Mpumalanga. As Dr Anton Rupert, the Founder of Peace Parks Foundation and WWF had always said, once an organisation has existed for 7 years, it can survive for ever, said Prof. Willem Van Riet, Chairman of the Southern African Wildlife College.
Shark warning system October 2006 Cape Towns shark spotters scan the beaches from their elevated mountainside posts above Muizenberg and Fish Hoek from 8am to 6pm, seven days a week. Equipped with radios, they are able to communicate with each other – and when a shark is spotted, the alarm is raised to warn bathers and call them back to the shore pronto. The siren is set off by remote control by the spotters.
Shark-spotters get stylish October 2006 They dont enjoy the luxuries of air-conditioned offices or of being invited to posh social functions. You wont find them driving around in luxury four-by-four vehicles or lounging in cafés. But Cape Towns shark-spotters, in their own inimitable way, render an indispensable service to the community. In their open-plan offices – lookout points along the slopes of the Muizenberg mountain – they face the winter rains and the heat and wind of summer, acting as a sixth sense for bathers and surfers.
Haaisoekers trek nuwe baadjie aan October 2006 Hulle sit nie in lugverkoelde kantore nie; word nie na gesellighede uitgenooi nie. In luukse viertrekvoertuie of in restaurante soek jy hulle verniet. Maar Kaapstad se haaisoekers lewer op hul beskeie manier n onontbeerlike diens aan die gemeenskap. In hul “oop kantore” – uitkykpunte in die berge rondom Muizenberg en omstreke waar hulle daagliks aan die wind en weer blootgestel word – tree die haaisoekers op as n sesde sintuig vir swemmers en branderplankryers.
WWF International Programme Manager for Trade and Investment- Alistair Schorn October 2006 Alistair Schorn joined WWF South Africa as International Programme Manager for the Trade and Investment Programme (TIP) in August 2006. In this role, he is responsible for the management and coordination of TIP offices in Europe as well as in the key emerging markets of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. The objective of the Programme is to promote the issues of sustainable development and environmental responsibility in the trade and investment policies of these countries.
Black rhino released on to Pongola Game Reserve October 2006 TWELVE black rhino have recently been released on to Pongola Game Reserve in northern KwaZulu-Natal. The animals form the third founder population of the Black Rhino Range Expansion Project, a partnership between international conservation organisation WWF and Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife. To create the Pongola Game Reserve, six neighbouring landowners brought together 13 000 hectares of land under single management for the benefit of black rhino.
WWF saddened by death of Ken Newman October 2006 WWF has expressed sadness at the news of the death of renowned bird illustrator and author Ken Newman, and extended condolences to his family.
Mark Read, the conservation organisations chairman in SA, notes: “Ken Newman is the person in SA who brought nature into everyones home. Everyone who used his books and their wonderful illustrations felt they could become a naturalist.
New boat will act against Goukamma poaching October 2006 Honda South Africa and BP have combined support to purchase a brand new patrol rig – a 5.1 metre ribEXTREME inflatable mounted with two 50 hp four-stroke Honda outboard engines - for the Goukamma Marine Protected Area (MPA) near Knysna. This initiative was facilitated through the WWF Sanlam Marine Programme, which runs a comprehensive marine conservation programme throughout South Africa. Dr Rob Little, Director of Conservation at WWF says, “This is a great example of corporations becoming involved in the conservation of our rich marine heritage. Goukamma is one of our most important MPAs and is critical to our management of inshore fish stocks, and yet it has operated without a boat for the past four years.”
WWF Report urges government to promote sustainable companies October 2006 WWF, the conservation organization, is proud to release the results of a survey on the subject of Corporate Social Responsibility in this report entitled “South African Companies in the 21st Century: Opportunities for Global Leadership” The report is part of a series of studies by WWFs Trade and Investment Programme (TIP), which aims to identify and cooperate with actors in the BRICS group of key emerging economies (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) to champion sustainable international trade and investment. The Programme examines the scope which exists for these countries to become leading exporters of, and investors in, sustainable goods and services, whilst emerging as key actors in promoting a proactive international sustainable development agenda.
Human footprint too big for nature October 2006 The worlds natural ecosystems are being degraded at a rate unprecedented in human history, according to a report released today by the global conservation organisation WWF. WWFs Living Planet Report 2006, the groups biennial statement on the state of the natural world, says that on current projections humanity will be using two planets worth of natural resources by 2050. It also confirms the trend of biodiversity loss and the decline of available natural resources seen in previous Living Planet reports.
Land restitution and conservation October 2006 Environmental conservation and the governments Land Restitution Programme are sometimes seen to be at odds. Whilst Land Restitution can pose a significant and immediate threat to environmental conservation in South Africa, The Green Trust is transforming this potential threat into a conservation opportunity by supporting an innovative new programme that creates win wins for both.
Launched in August 2006, The Green Trusts conservation-based land restitution support programme will help equip communities in sustainable land management practices and offer them a firm foothold in the game conservation and tourism market.
Resolute efforts by the WWF BirdLife Responsible Fisheries Programme, DEAT and the fishing industry has been rewarded with an amendment to regulations governing trawling and longline fishing, requiring the mandatory use of bird scaring lines on all vessels. Bird scaring lines function as marine scarecrows, scaring albatrosses and other seabirds away from baited longline hooks and dangerous trawl warps that would otherwise snare and drown them. Recent observations by WWF staff aboard the Sarah Baartman revealed good compliance with these measures by the trawl fleet. Such measures could save tens of thousands of seabirds over the next years. Nineteen of the 21 species of albatrosses are threatened with extinction, mainly due to fishery operations.
What can be done to address climate change? October 2006 Global negotiations and conventions like the UNFCC and Kyoto Protocol are leading to concerted and vigorous action by developed countries (who have caused the problem through industrialisation).
South Africa is a signatory to the UNFCC and to Kyoto and has certain obligations in terms of monitoring greenhouse gases and ensuring a voluntary uptake of energy savings measures and new technology for renewable energy.
Global Climate Change October 2006 Climate change is a threat to humankind, but no-one is certain how it will play out in future and to what severity. Yet, just because something is uncertain, doesnt mean that it is to be ignored or denied. And in fact, recent concerns are that scientists and their data models may indeed be underestimating the rate of change that the planet is likely to experience. This means that we do not have 50 or 100 years to make the changes to our energy consumption, but perhaps 5 – 10 years, which makes climate change nothing short of a global emergency.
Climate Change Fact Sheet October 2006 Since industrial times, atmospheric greenhouse gases (GHG) have been building up in the atmosphere and are trapping heat from the sun. We are causing these gases to build up when we burn fossil fuels in our cars and rely on coal fired power plants to generate electricity.
While this “blanket” effect is what usually keeps the Earth’s climate pleasant and habitable, in recent times there is an anthropogenic increase of GHG to an extent that the Earth’s temperature is rising.
WWF Climate Change Programme October 2006 The new WWF-SA Climate Change Programme, under the guidance of Dr Sue Taylor, will assess the full spectrum of climate change needs within the South African community and collaboratively initiate projects, policy development, research and awareness to foster a coordinated South African approach to deal with climate change. Both mitigation of climate change causes within the transport and energy generation sectors, and adaptation to the impacts of climate change, will be engaged with.
Climate Change in South African Cities October 2006 Durban – a collaborative study between eThekwini and the CSIR has looked at the potential long-term implications of climate change on Durban. The report highlighted several issues, such as sea level rises and coastal inundation, hotter temperatures, changed rainfall and storm patterns as well as reduction in drinking water supplies over the next 50 – 70 years. In terms of long-term planning for the city, potential problems need to be quantified and provision made in the cities future budgets.
Dr Sue Taylor - WWF Climate Change Programme Manager “ Because climate change will affect my children…” October 2006 There is no doubt that the impact of climate change is being seen around the globe, but what we are seeing is nothing compared to what the next generation will experience, and that of their children, if drastic measures are not taken now. It is this sentiment which is driving Dr Sue Taylor, the newly appointed Climate Change Programme Manager for WWF, the conservation organisation.
WWF sponsors new ‘designer’ homes for threatened African penguins October 2006 Around the country low cost housing projects are becoming a priority and Dyer Island is no exception. There is one minor difference, however, the houses are made from fiberglass and the new homeowners are threatened African penguins. The WWF Sanlam Marine Programme has donated funds towards these new ‘designer’ penguin nests. From these funds 3 nests have been donated, with the rest going towards promoting the conservation of South Africa’s marine environment, through communication and awareness raising initiatives, in Gansbaai.
Developing Mussels October 2006 There are two tarred roads leading down to the sea in the old Transkei – one to Coffee Bay and one to Port St Johns.
“The roads give the impression this area is not isolated but just off the tar, people are living without electricity or running water in poverty-stricken circumstances,” says zoologist Gugu Calvo-Ugarteburu from Walter Sisulu University in Mthatha, who has managed the Green Trusts Community Mussel Harvesting Project in Coffee Bay since April 2005.The aim of the project is to rehabilitate over-exploited mussel beds and to establish a sustainable harvesting management plan.
R9m boost for research into sustainable technology October 2006 In a boost for local innovators and sustainable development, a new joint initiative by Eskom and WWF, the conservation organisation, has been announced. R3m per year for three years has been committed by Eskom for research into renewable energy in South Africa which will be put into a fund and jointly administered by Eskom and WWF.The overall aim of the joint initiative is to promote through funding local innovation, the development and uptake of renewable energy in South Africa.
Tragic loss in Nepal crash September 2006 Gland, Switzerland: WWF, the global conservation organization, said today it was deeply saddened at the loss of life in Saturdays helicopter crash in the mountainous far-east of Nepal. ‘’The helicopter has been found, and it appears that there are no survivors, but we are waiting for final confirmation,” Director General James Leape said this morning.
Shark report a sober voice on an emotive issue September 2006 CAPE TOWN – The City of Cape Town, the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, and WWF today released a report that is aimed at finding a practical and workable balance between increasing recreational safety in the inshore waters of Cape Town, whilst minimising the impacts on the endangered Great White Shark and Cape Town’s spectacular marine environment.
A glass of wine and a touch of sun help WWF team learning more about Biodiversity and Wine Initiative (BWI) September 2006 Lying on the northern slopes of the Bottelary Hills in Stellenbosch, Mooiplaas Estate, the first wine farm in South Africa to join the Biodiversity and Wine Initiative (BWI), has committed itself to conserving a small section of the critically endangered renosterveld, which is found on the farm. Having recently developed a hiking trail through this conserved renosterveld, the Roos family invited the WWF team on a 4 km inaugural hike on August 25th.
WWF and SA Sugar Association sign Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) August 2006 WWF, the global conservation organisation, and The South African Sugar Association (SASA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), which will centre on conserving freshwater and estuarine habitats and promoting biodiversity.
Call for shark logic… August 2006 Being bitten by a shark must be an absolutely terrifying experience. I have been surfing for 28 years and surf at least twice a week in False Bay. I also work for a science-based organization that seeks to protect and enhance the wellbeing of humans by trying to ensure we do not irresponsibly destroy our environment. It is in this context, I express my deep empathy for Achmat Hassiem, and nothing but admiration for the courage shown by him and his fellow lifesavers in serving their community.
Grasslands for life August 2006 Agriculture, forestry, mining and development or what we call the production sectors, are mostly located in the grasslands of South Africa, extending across 29% of our country.
Flowers, frogs and wine August 2006 In under two years 30 000 hectares of the 100 000 hectare footprint of vineyards in the Western Cape have been dedicated to conservation by 56 wine producers.
Bio-wine reaches critical mass in Cape winelands August 2006 1 Aug 2006, Waterford Estate Its a commitment worth raising a glass to: in just 20 months more than 50 of the Capes wine producers have adopted the principles of sustainable winemaking and set aside nearly 30 000ha for conservation, representing nearly a third of the Western Capes winemaking land.
Fallow Deer on Table Mountain July 2006 Joint statement: WWF, WESSA, EWT, BotSoc, the Wilderness Foundation and WfW Six major conservation bodies support the South African National Parks (SANParks) in its mandate to manage the Table Mountain National Park and ensure the park’s long-term value for the citizens of South Africa and the world.
A numbers game: Managing elephants in southern Africa July 2006 Southern Africa just had one of the wettest summers on record, turning its usual adobe brown sun-burnt landscapes into verdant green paradises. In South Africas Kruger National Park, vegetation has grown thick and dried riverbeds have flooded. Wildlife havent had to wander too far in search of food or water.
New staff at the Table Mountain Fund July 2006 The Table Mountain Fund (TMF) and WWF-SA are pleased to introduce the appointment of a new Manager and Assistant for the TMF. The new manager is Onno Huyser, who takes over the position previously filled by Julia Wood and who joined us on 1 July 2006. The new Assistant is Tamaryn Allan who replaces Zohra Parkar-Salie and will start with us on 1 August 2006.
Black Rhino Range Expansion project moves into phase two July 2006 The successful WWF/ Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Black Rhino Range Expansion Project has been given the go-ahead for a second three-year phase. The Project, which began in July 2003, aims to increase numbers of the critically endangered black rhino by increasing the land available for their conservation, thus reducing pressure on existing reserves and providing new territory in which they can breed up quickly.
Investec Thames challenge: Explorer plans Thames swim for the plight of the polar bear July 2006 Cape Town polar explorer and endurance swimmer Lewis Gordon Pugh is seeking to add another first to his long list of pioneering achievements by attempting to become the first person to swim the entire length of the River Thames from its source near the Welsh border all the way to the North Sea.
Disabled throw a line for albatrosses July 2006 In an inspiring demonstration that everyone can contribute to sustainable use of natural resources, members of an Ocean View centre for the disabled are earning a livelihood by helping to save threatened albatrosses.
NGOs call for urgent, coordinated strategy on Wild Coast to ensure people benefit July 2006 Five of South Africas major environmental Non Governmental Organisations (NGOs) (the Botanical Society of South Africa, the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT), the Wilderness Foundation, the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA) and WWF-SA, the conservation organisation) have agreed to a collaborative approach to address sustainable development and environmental conservation on the Wild Coast.
First ever eco-friendly soy arrives in Switzerland June 2006 Gland / Switzerland – The first ever shipment of environment-friendly soy has arrived at the port of Basel on the Rhine, in Switzerland, WWF announced today.
WWF-SA kudos for Nedbank on sustainability June 2006 Financial institutions aiming to conform to the principles of sustainable development not only earn accolades for doing so, but will increasingly receive preference as business partners.
Anton Rupert on WWF Honour Roll June 2006 The late Dr Anton Rupert has been added to WWF Internationals Roll of Honour. The accolade is granted posthumously in recognition of an individuals outstanding contribution to WWF.
New WWF partnership to aid anglers flair for catch-and-release June 2006 The Tony and Lisette Lewis Foundation has been named as the new sponsor of the linefish tagging programme thats been run by the Oceanographic Research Institute (ORI) with support from WWF-SA for the last 22 years.
First-ever photo of wild rhino on Borneo June 2006 Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia / Gland, Switzerland – A motion-triggered camera trap set up in a remote jungle has captured the first-ever photo of a rhino in the wild on the island of Borneo, the Sabah Wildlife Department and WWF, the global conservation organization, announced today.
Massive haul of illegal seafood at airport June 2006 Earlier this month the SA Police Services confiscated nearly 11 000 lobster tails at Johannesburg International Airport. Dr Kerry Sink, chair of the Southern African Sustainable Seafood Initiative has spent two days identifying and counting the haul, and confirms that most of the tails belonged to East Coast rock lobsters Panulirus homarus, a designated, no-sale recreational species that may not be sold or traded (including importing and exporting) in South Africa. Five species of rock lobster were included in the consignment.
Dr Sink, a marine biologist with the Endangered Wildlife Trust, is involved with the investigation and notes:
WWF-SA showcases rivers in rehab for World Environment Day June 2006 Judicious use of freshwater resources can not only ensure sustained economic growth and social development, but can generate income for local authorities and business, WWF-SA today (Friday 2 June) told at a media briefing.
Biodiversity a key to national prosperity May 2006 Unchecked use of natural resources such as fresh water and the destruction of fragile ecoregions could cost SA access to the very keys to the dignity and livelihood to which all are entitled, says WWF-SA, marking the International Day for Biological Diversity.
WWF on IUCN Red List 2006 May 2006 The IUCN 2006 Red List highlights the serious situation the worlds biodiversity is facing, and to some extent highlights the threats to biodiversity that are at an all-time high, caused by detrimental human activities across the globe, WWF has said.
Soweto Schools win 1st & 2nd Prize at City Parks Water Celebration Day May 2006 Over 600 learners from schools around Gauteng participated in the City Parks Water Day Celebration held at the Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve on Wednesday 29 March. Two schools participating in the Mayibuye Wetlands Rehabilitation Project won prizes for the best display and related activity. Prizes included a camera and environmental education books courtesy of JUTA.
C.A.P.E. Conference May 2006 You are invited to attend the C.A.P.E Partners Conference: 6 to 8 June 2006.
Cape Action for People and the Environment (C.A.P.E.) is a programme of the South African Government, with support from international donors, to protect the rich biological heritage of the Cape Floristic Region (CFR).
Environmental Sustainability course to be held at UNISA May 2006 The Unisa Centre for Corporate Citizenship will be running a two-day seminar on Environmental Sustainability at Unisas Graduate School of Business Leadership in Midrand in June.
WWF position statement: Elephant management in southern Africa April 2006 WWF has been working to conserve African elephants for over 40 years. Our work focuses on four main objectives: reducing illegal killing through improved protection and management; increasing capacity within range states to conserve and manage elephants; increasing peoples support for elephant conservation by reducing conflict; and reducing the illegal trade in elephant products.
WWF-SA goes catchment-to-coast April 2006 WWF South Africa has aligned its WWF Freshwater and Marine Programmes into a new WWF Aquatic Unit. The new structure came into effect at the beginning of April 2006. Dr Deon Nel will head the Aquatic Unit and play a strategic leadership role in the development of WWF-SAs marine and freshwater conservation efforts. Aaniyah Omardien becomes the new Marine Programme Manager, and Rodney February the Freshwater Programme Manager. Zohra Parkar-Salie will assist and support the Aquatic team.
Protecting endangered species helps reduce poverty March 2006 Gland, Switzerland – Saving pandas, gorillas or tigers is not just about stopping an endangered species from going extinct, but also helps reduce poverty and improves the lives of local communities, according to a new WWF report. The report, with six case studies, shows that WWF’s species work helps eradicate poverty and hunger, as well as promote sustainable and fair development in rural areas of countries such as Nepal, Uganda, India, Namibia, Costa Rica and China.
First international wildlife film festival for South Africa March 2006 Inspired by the wild, the South African wildlife film-making community, for the first time ever, will be given the opportunity to meet, network and negotiate with the rest of the global wildlife film-making industry, at the Wild Talk Africa film festival and conference in April 2006.
WWF acquisition at Hangklip links mountain and coast March 2006 WWF South Africas acquisition of 294 hectares of fynbos land, including the iconic Cape Hangklip between Pringle Bay and Betty’s Bay, will bring the core area of the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve to the coast. The event is a culmination of efforts by WWF, CapeNature, the Kogelberg Biosphere Association, the Hangklip Heritage Trust and the Overstrand Municipality.
This is the third such acquisition of land by WWF-SA in the area and means a tract of land from the R44 road between Pringle Bay and Betty’s Bay, and almost to the beach is protected.
Twenty five countries announce Year of the Turtle March 2006 March 1st kicks off 2006 as the official Year of the Turtle within the Indian Ocean and South-East Asian region by IOSEA (the Indian Ocean South-East Asian Marine Turtle MOU for conservation of marine turtles and their habitats).
WWF hails news on tax break February 2006 WWF has welcomed the news that tax deductible donation status will be extended to conservation and environmental organisations as announced by Finance Minister Trevor Manuel in his 2006 Budget Speech yesterday.
Banks failing environment and social standards January 2006 A new study released by BankTrack and WWF today has found that there is a growing commitment to sustainable banking within the international banking sector. However, the report also highlighted the need for the sector to adopt more transparent financing policies, advancing sustainability while helping to reduce their exposure to risk.
Wetlands protection can fight poverty, says MWP January 2006 In the face of poverty, wetlands are lifelines. Wetlands are vital for both livelihood and food security for the rural poor, says Vhangani Silima of the Mondi Wetlands Project, a flagship programme of the World Wide Fund for Nature, and the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa.
WWF South Africa mourns the death of Dr Anton Rupert January 2006 WWF (World Wide Fund for Nature) South Africa is saddened to hear of the death last night (Wednesday, 18 January 2006) of its Founder and Patron, Dr Anton Rupert.
Surf, spend and save the planet December 2005 From keyrings to hybrid cars, consumers have never a wider choice of environmentally friendly ways to spend
Environmental security in a post-tsunami world December 2005 It’s been a tough year of natural disasters. Since last years Sumatran earthquake and subsequent tsunami wreaked havoc on Asia and parts of east Africa, killing hundreds of thousands of people and displacing millions from their homes, we have seen the likes of Hurricane Katrina in the southern states of the US, as well as heavy floods in Europe, extensive forest fires in Spain and Portugal, and mega-earthquakes in Indonesia and Pakistan.
Mysterious carnivore discovered in Borneo forests December 2005 Gland, Switzerland – WWF researchers may have discovered a new, mysterious carnivore species in the dense, central forests of Borneo. The animal, a mammal slightly larger than a domestic cat with dark red fur and a long, bushy tail, was photographed twice by a camera trap at night. This could be the first time in more than a century that a new carnivore has been discovered on the island.
World Wildlife Fund Launches 2006 Competition for Fishing Gear that Reduce Accidental Marine Life Deaths November 2005 Washington—World Wildlife Fund today announced the launch of the second WWF International Smart Gear Competition. The contest seeks innovative fishing gear that reduces marine bycatch - the accidental catch and related deaths of marine mammals, birds, sea turtles and non-target fish species in fishing gear such as nets and longlines.
WWF hails inclusiveness of elephant debate November 2005 The public participation process on managing South Africas growing elephant population is a good indicator of a maturing democracy and growing awareness that effective conservation requires human consensus.
Pulp mill devastates swans sanctuary in Chile November 2005 Santiago, Chile - A recently opened pulp mill in Chile has devastated one of South Americas most biologically outstanding wetlands, decimating its famed population of black-necked swans, along with most other bird life, a WWF-led team of investigators said Monday.
Illegal timber trade in Europe driving global forest loss and poverty November 2005 Gland, Switzerland – Unless urgent action is taken by the European Union, the illegal timber trade in Europe could contribute to large scale depletion of timber in some areas and loss of important forests, especially in the Congo Basin and Indonesia, in about 10 years time, a new WWF report shows.
An open letter to the Mayor October 2005 To say that I was surprised to see the City easing water restrictions (Cape Times, 22 September) is a significant understatement. Of course most of the citizens of the city would have felt relieved that the restrictions have been eased, however all the signs available to us, tells us that this relief will be very short lived.
Why a Biodiversity & Wine Initiative? October 2005 The Cape Floral Kingdom (CFK) is the smallest and richest plant kingdom on earth. Internationally recognised as a global biodiversity hotspot and listed as South Africas newest World Heritage Site, conservation of the CFK is critical. As 80% of the CFK is in private hands, conserving the CFK requires getting biodiversity conservation into the hearts and minds of the landowners. The most effective way of doing this is through the industries that represent them. The Biodiversity & Wine Initiative is the first project in this new conservation strategy, working directly with the South African wine industry.
Collective action required to save our oceans October 2005 This year the theme for National Marine Week is a call to collective action for all sectors of society to join hands in responsibly looking after our marine resources to ensure their sustainability. It recognises that the protection and sustainable utilisation of our marine and coastal resources is a responsibility that should be shared among all. This follows closely on government’s announcement that it intended joining WWF South Africa and Sanlam in an unprecedented partnership aimed at protecting our oceans for the benefit of all South Africans.
Eco-schools raise their flag on the Wild Coast October 2005 At the dawn of National Marine Week, five schools on the Wild Coast today celebrated their graduation as environmentally aware Eco-schools in a flag-raising ceremony at Coffee Bay. This comes after six months of hard work and submission of their project portfolio for independent appraisal.
Black rhino released on to Zululand Rhino Reserve October 2005 17 black rhino have over the last few days been released on to a major game reserve in northern KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The Zululand Rhino Reserve covers 24 000 hectares of savannah bushveld made up of more than 20 neighbouring properties whose owners have recently removed their internal fences in order to create a significant, barrier-free haven for endangered species, including black rhino. Four more black rhino will be released TODAY/ TUESDAY making a total population of 21 on the reserve.
Finally a currency with a conscience September 2005 27 September - ecoMiles Limited, an internet marketing company, launches the worlds first development currency today, enabling millions of people to take practical steps to combat poverty and address environmental concerns. The new currency, ecoMiles, can be earned online through the companys ecoShop, which hosts most of the world's top brand merchants. In time, ecoMiles envisions over-the-counter opportunities as the program makes inroads through public participation.
Black rhino airlifted from wilderness September 2005 Four black rhino were airlifted out of wilderness areas in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park this weekend. They will form part of a founder population of about 20 animals for the WWF/ Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Black Rhino Range Expansion Project. The Project aims to boost numbers of the critically endangered species by increasing the land available for their conservation, thus reducing pressure on existing reserves and providing new territory in which they can breed up quickly.
Fur trade in Tibet threatens survival of Himalayan tigers and leopards August 2005 Lhasa - Concern is increasing over the role of the Tibetan market in the trade of tiger and Asian leopard skins, with many animals hunted every year in the Himalayas to meet the market demand in Tibet.
Brenton Blue Butterflies Again a Reality in Natures Valley August 2005 Friday 12th August will be remembered for some time as the day the butterflies returned to the Valley. We normally think of natures flagship species as spectacular creatures like elephants and whales. But a butterfly, thought to be extinct and then rediscovered in Natures Valley in 1977, is serving as a symbol of the serious difficulties we face in protecting and preserving our environment.
WWF trophy hunting policy July 2005 WWF is committed to protecting the world’s threatened and endangered wildlife and does not condone any activity that would threaten the long term survival of any species. For endangered species, trophy hunting should only be considered when all other options have been explored. We don’t support trophy hunting in countries where it is culturally or religiously inappropriate.
Shock at slap on the wrist for Korean skipper July 2005 Environmental NGOs WWF and BirdLife South Africa are outraged at the news that a Korean fishing boat skipper who broke "almost every rule in the book” was fined R50 000 and handed a suspended sentence in the Eastern Cape last week. The conservationists are especially alarmed that the crews misdemeanors included trying to buy off a fisheries observer, then threatening him. They are concerned too, that the suspended sentences and comparatively light fines for Hwan Lee-An, the master of the Dong Won 630 sends all the wrong signals to law-abiding, hard-pressed fishermen.
Make safety for people and sharks the net result July 2005 By all means find ways to prevent shark attacks, as long as those ways dont involve killing thousands of sharks, dolphins, turtles and other marine life forms. Thats the stance of the Endangered Wildlife Trust and WWF, reacting in a joint statement to the proposed use of electronic shark deterrent barriers at beaches in the Peninsula, following recent shark attacks on surfers and swimmers.
WWF appoints new Director General July 2005 Gland, Switzerland. WWF, the global conservation organization, is pleased to announce that James P Leape will become Director General of WWF International in December 2005. WWF International, through its International Secretariat in Gland, Switzerland, leads and coordinates the global WWF network with 4,400 staff and offices in more than 100 countries.
Second site chosen for Black Rhino Range Expansion Project May 2005 The Board of Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife on Friday approved Zululand Rhino Reserve as the second site of the WWF/ Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Black Rhino Range Expansion Project. The 17 000 hectare area in northern KwaZulu-Natal consists of 12 adjoining properties which have dropped their internal fences in order to create a haven for a significant black rhino population. A founder population of between 17 and 20 black rhino from KZN Wildlife reserves will be released on to the block later this year.
WWF-SA urges efforts to ease CapeNature cash crisis May 2005 South Africa needs to find ways to ensure far-reaching cooperation and innovation so that scarce resources are used to full effect for the long term benefit of the environment. The fact that formal conservation agencies are in crisis should concern all South Africans as we are completely dependent on the environment for our well-being and, to a large extent, economic growth.
Knersvlakte gets 125ha land boost May 2005 The establishment of a core preservation area in the Succulent Karoo area has had a welcome boost with the donation of 125ha of land to the South African arm of the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF-SA) by building and engineering materials supplier Holcim South Africa.
Karnevalverein sets an example May 2005 The generosity of supporters such as the Karnevalverein has enabled WWF to establish 10 target-driven conservation programmes with almost 150 projects. Together, these projects have provided jobs for up to 4000 people, saved species, changed government policy, protected forests, rivers and mountains, and educated businesses, industries and the people of South Africa to change their behaviour towards ensuring a living planet.
Less talk, more action needed to protect the high seas May 2005 St. Johns, Newfoundland – The Conference on the Governance of High Seas Fisheries has ended with the worlds top fishing nations failing to seize the opportunity to commit to an action plan to protect the high seas.
WWF-SA Positioning Statement: South China Tiger South African Project May 2005 WWF-SA supports efforts to increase populations of species listed as Critically Endangered in the IUCN Red Lists of Threatened Species. In the case of the South China Tiger South African Project, which entails plans to release tigers into a South African protected area for rewilding and breeding, WWF-SA shares concerns raised by the IUCN’s Cat Specialist Group (Cat SG) and Reintroduction Specialist Group.
WWF-SA Positioning Statement: Control of off-road vehicles in coastal zones May 2005 Biodiversity conservation is the core of WWFs global focus. In line with this, WWF-SA supports the South African government’s stance in regard to the protection and conservation of sensitive coastal areas, and its ban on the indiscriminate use of the coastal zone by off-road vehicles (ORVs).
Mediterranean fish at risk of exotic viruses May 2005 4 May 2005 Brussels, Belgium – Mediterranean wild fish are exposed to exotic viruses because of huge quantities of imported feed-fish used in tuna farming, says a report launched today by WWF. The global conservation organization is therefore asking the EU to urgently ban the use of non-Mediterranean fish as feed in tuna farming.
Aceh: Stop talking, send timber April 2005 Jakarta, Indonesia / Gland, Switzerland – Acehs already shattered landscape faces further devastation if donor countries do not immediately supply the tsunami-stricken province with sustainable timber. The warning was made at the launch of a set of reconstruction guidelines developed by WWF, the global conservation organization, to strengthen and safeguard Acehs environment against future threats.
Chinese companies more environmentally aware than expected April 2005 Beijing/China/Gland/Switzerland – Some of Chinas biggest and most important companies are intent on improving environmental standards and practices, according to a survey by WWF, the global conservation organization. All of the companies participating in the survey said protecting the environment was important, with more than half indicating that it was part of their companys core values.
Switzerland and the wolf April 2005 Looking for wolves in Switzerland is a bit like looking for a needle in a haystack. Perhaps even harder as there are only a handful of them roaming throughout the country’s vast mountain ranges and alpine meadows made famous by the 19th century children’s classic, and later the popular television series, Heidi. But, for many living in the Swiss Alps, this is a handful too many.
Eco-Schools flag will fly at the North Pole April 2005 Three South Africans are partaking in the Polar Race 2005, which is described as probably the world’s toughest race. They will be the first South Africans and the first Africans to walk to the magnetic North Pole, and one of the racers, Peter Berning, will fly the Eco-Schools Flag when he gets there.
WWF Australia and Peregrine Shipping Announce New Partnership for Albatross Conservation April 2005 Antarctic expedition cruise operator, Peregrine Shipping and WWF-Australia have formed a new partnership to address albatross conservation, with a particular focus on high seas governance, specifically Illegal, Unregulated and Unreported (IUU) fishing - acknowledged to be the greatest threat to albatross survival.
Sumatran tigers caught on film March 2005 Washington, DC – WWF scientists are using camera traps to help conduct surveys that will provide a range map for tigers in Sumatra lowland rainforest. The cameras will also help provide a density estimate of tigers in various habitat types and determine whether there are adequate prey species for tigers to subsist. The results could have significant implications for species and forest preservation here and around the world.
River dolphins in freshwater battle against extinction March 2005 Gland, Switzerland – On the eve of World Water Day, WWF warns that Asias river dolphin populations are in severe decline due to polluted waters, dams and entanglement in fishing nets and has launched an initiative to save some of the worlds most threatened mammals.
Water crisis looms as Himalayan glaciers retreat March 2005 Gland, Switzerland - Himalayan glaciers are among the fastest retreating glaciers globally due to the effects of global warming, and this will eventually result in water shortages for hundreds of millions of people who rely on glacier-dependent rivers in China, India and Nepal, warns WWF, the global conservation organization.
Rising wood imports in China a threat to the worlds forests March 2005 Gland, Switzerland/Hong Kong SAR – Because of its rapidly rising demand for wood, China is set to lead the worlds wood market and this will have devastating impacts on some of the planets outstanding forests unless major changes are made in the country's current policies, a new WWF report warns.
Spain and EU fail worlds most endangered cat species March 2005 Gland, Switzerland – The Iberian lynx could be the first big cat species to become extinct in 10,000 years unless the European Union and Spain take drastic action, WWF said today. With only 100 Iberian lynx remaining, the global conservation organization says that the EU is actively contributing to the decline of the species through funding road and dam development in remaining critical lynx habitat, and that key lynx territory needs to be urgently included in the EU’s Natura 2000 network of protected areas.
CEO of WWF-SA joins the National Environmental Advisory Forum (NEAF) March 2005 The Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Marthinus van Schalkwyk, has announced the establishment of the National Environmental Advisory Forum (NEAF). Speaking at Parliament during a joint briefing to the Parliamentary Portfolio and Select Committees for the Environment and Tourism the Minister said: "The establishment of the NEAF is one of the most important and concrete steps ever taken by Government to recognise the value of stakeholder partnerships in promoting environmental management and governance."
Post-tsunami coral reef assessment done in Thailand March 2005 Bangkok, Thailand – Two new surveys of Thailand’s coral reefs show the impact of the Asian tsunami was highly varied, but with most damage identified within the country’s national marine parks.
FirstRand shareholders make valuable donation to WWF-SA! February 2005 In an effort to reduce printing costs of FirstRand’s annual report, shareholders were invited to make a donation to three organizations - WWF-SA was one of the nominated choices - in return for them agreeing not to receive their annual report.
The Arctic is the chemical sink of the globe February 2005 Brussels, Belgium/Oslo, Norway/Gland, Switzerland – The Arctic and its wildlife are increasingly contaminated with chemicals and pollutants that were never produced or used in that region, warns WWF, the global conservation organisation, in a new report. It further notes that sometimes chemical concentrations in the area are higher than in the countries where they were made and produced.
A spectacular spectacled bear story February 2005 The small village of El Pensil in Colombias Massif Central district discovered a very special visitor one morning devouring its maize crops…an endangered spectacled bear. Despite the damage caused to the crop, the community decided to welcome Latin Americas only bear species before it returned to its natural habitat in the Guácharos–Purace Biological Corridor.
Whale Scientists to determine fate of Shell project in Russian Far East February 2005 Gland, Switzerland/Moscow, Russia - An independent assessment1 of the impact of an oil and gas development in the Russian Far East on endangered gray whales must dictate the fate of current Shell operations, a proposed offshore platform and undersea pipeline, according to WWF, the global conservation organization. On the eve of the publication of the independent review, WWF is calling on Royal Dutch Shell and Japan's Mitsui and Mitsubishi to act immediately on any scientific findings concerning development activities in the sole feeding grounds of the critically endangered western gray whale.
Cape Argus Pick n Pay Cycle Tour February 2005 Looking for an entry but you think you are too late? Youre not too late - you can still get a ride and support WWF-SA!
Time for action on climate change says WWF February 2005 An international conference has established the science, the threats and the potential impacts of climate change, now we need the action, WWF has urged.
A to Z of water saving tips February 2005 The challenges facing the world in the provision of clean water may be daunting, but here are 26 ways you can play your part in conserving water. Adapted from Thames Waters Waterwise campaign.
New commitments and bold measures needed to save the Congo Basins forests February 2005 Gland, Switzerland – As leaders gather for the second Central African Heads of State Forest Summit in Brazzaville, WWF warns that two thirds of the Congo Basin’s forests could be lost within fifty years if illegal logging, poaching and smuggling of wildlife, and illicit bushmeat trade continue at the current level.
Ignoring climate change will undermine African poverty eradication February 2005 The impacts of global warming on economic development in Africa, particularly among the poorest people, will be highlighted in a scientific paper released today. The author, Dr. Anthony Nyong, who was invited by WWF to give a paper, will be speaking at the Scientific Symposium on Stabilisation of Greenhouse Gases at the Met. Office, Exeter, UK.
Dangerous levels of climate change as early as 2026, warns WWF February 2005 Gland/Switzerland. A new study commissioned by WWF, the global conservation organization, shows that dangerous levels of climate change could be reached in just over 20 years time. The review of global climate simulations suggests that if nothing is done, the earth will have warmed by 2 degrees C (3.6 degrees F) above pre-industrial levels (c. 1750) by some time between 2026 and 2060. In the Arctic this could lead to a loss of summer sea ice, species and some types of tundra vegetation as well as to a fundamental change in the ways of life of Inuit and other arctic residents.
Unique Global Fishing Gear Contest Reels in Rivals from around the World January 2005 Washington, D.C. - Protecting sea turtles, dolphins and whales has become a competitive sport in a first-ever global effort to energize creative fishermen, scientists, and academics to come up with innovative fishing gear that is more selective. With its International Smart Gear Competition, World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and its partners hope to reverse the decline of vulnerable species accidentally caught in nets and other fishing gear by awarding a cash prize to the winners and eventually seeing the inventions succeed in international waters.
Tsunami tragedy: WWF on-the-ground accounts January 2005 It has been several weeks since the Sumatran earthquake and the subsequent tsunami wreaked havoc on the Asian region and parts of east Africa, killing more than 200,000, injuring scores of people, and displacing millions from their homes. But, the memories are still fresh. The following are on-the-ground reactions from WWF staff directly affected by the tragedy and who are now focussing on humanitarian relief efforts and reconstruction issues.
Green reconstruction vital in tsunami aftermath January 2005 10 Jan 2005 Gland, Switzerland - In the aftermath of the tsunami disaster, WWF is calling on governments to support the devastated communities by ensuring that efforts to rebuild their livelihoods are environmentally sustainable.
Brazil protects three million hectares of Amazon forests January 2005 23 Dec 2004 Brasilia, Brazil - The Brazilian State of Amazonas, by far the largest state in the Brazilian Amazon with some of its most intact forest and diverse landscapes, has announced the creation of a mosaic of protected areas totalling over three million hectacres in the southern part of the state.
WWF-SA congratulates Valli Moosa on IUCN Presidency November 2004 24 November 2004 WWF-SA wishes to express its heartfelt congratulations to former minister of environmental affairs and tourism, Mr Valli Moosa, for his election today as president of the World Conservation Union (IUCN), one of the most prestigious and respected posts in the international conservation movement. As president he will lead and support the Union of over 1000 governmental and non-governmental member organisations over the next four years.
WWF-SA guesthouse takes top honours November 2004 24 November 2004 After under a year of being open for business, Sugarbird Manor, WWF-SA’s guesthouse situated in the Devon Valley just outside Stellenbosch, was last night honoured with three awards at the third annual Imvelo Responsible Tourism Awards held in Alexandra, Gauteng.
Sugar leaves bitter taste for the environment November 2004 Brussels, Belgium As EU Agriculture Ministers meet on Monday 22 November to discuss reform of European Union sugar regime, WWF released a report highlighting the environmental damage that can be caused by sugar production. The report entitled Sugar and the Environment, claims that sugar may be responsible for more biodiversity loss than any other single crop.
The Leader for a Living Planet award November 2004 WWF International and WWF-SA have paid tribute to former Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Mr Valli Moosa and world-renowned ornithologist, Mr. Ken Newman for their outstanding contributions to conservation.
New direction for Wildlife College October 2004 Today sees the seventh annual graduation ceremony of the Southern African Wildlife College (SAWC), situated near the Kruger Park in Mpumulanga. In total, 44 students from all over the SADC region will graduate. Twenty one graduates will receive a Certificate in Protected Area Management and 23 will obtain a Diploma in Natural Resource Management.
Humans continue to plunder planet – WWF Living Planet Report 2004 October 2004 Since WWF published the Living Planet Report 2002, the human race has continued to plunder the planet at a rate that has effectively outstripped its capacity to support life. Released globally today, the Living Planet Report 2004 – based on the Living Planet Index and the Ecological Footprint – shows that humans currently consume 20 percent more natural resources than the earth can produce, and that populations of terrestrial, freshwater and marine species fell on average by 40 percent between 1970 and 2000.
WWF study shows value of Table Mountain Marine Park October 2004 Stellenbosch, South Africa In celebration of National Marine Week, WWF-SA announced today that a recent study co-funded by the conservation organisation unequivocally demonstrates the value of marine sanctuary areas along the Cape Peninsula. The study has shown that the abundance and diversity of reef fish was far higher in existing restricted or “no-take” zones, compared to areas where fishing has been permitted.
Mark Read takes helm at WWF-SA October 2004 Stellenbosch, South Africa Mark Read, newly elected chairman of WWF-SA, spoke earlier this month at their AGM held at Sun City, about the organisation’s achievements and challenges.
Giant leap for black rhino conservation October 2004 It was a small step for black rhino, but a giant leap for black rhino conservation when 15 of the critically endangered animals were released on to Mun-ya-Wana Game Reserve in northern KwaZulu-Natal recently. The animals released form the first founder population of the groundbreaking WWF/ Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Black Rhino Range Expansion Project.
Ten most-wanted species September 2004 Stellenbosch, South Africa 10 September 2004 To the uninitiated, the humphead wrasse and ramin might not sound like something you’d particularly want to purchase, but this Asian fish and timber are among the top 10 on international traders’ shopping lists. According to WWF, the global conservation organisation, these two species are so sought after in some parts of the world, that they have joined the ranks of wildlife most at risk from unregulated international trade.
US Embassy assists Mozambique in introduction of TEDs in shrimp industry September 2004 A delegation of the Deparment of State and of the National Marine Fisheries Service of the Department of Commerce (United States) visited Mozambique in August for contacts with the fisheries sector, with a view to assist in the implementation of the legislation establishing the introduction of TEDs (Turtle Excluder Devices) in the nets of motor trawlers. The delegation had meetings with the Ministry of Fisheries, with the private sector involved with shrimp fisheries and with WWF, which supported the initial trials for the introduction of TEDs.
Sowing the seeds of hope August 2004 Driving towards Cape Town along the N2 highway you can’t help but notice the magnificence of Table Mountain in the distance. But even more noticeable are the thousands of tin shacks perched and piled all over the landscape on either side of the highway. These bleak sand plains are home to more than one million people – a number that increases by approximately 1200 every month.
Minister makes major new marine conservation announcement at WWF event July 2004 Cape Town, South Africa WWF has welcomed the announcement by the Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Marthinus van Schalkwyk last night of the government's intention to further expand its marine protected area (MPA) network to include off-shore marine habitats, as well as the threatened marine habitats around South Africa's Prince Edward Islands.
WWF honours SA government for role in marine protection July 2004 Stellenbosch, South Africa WWF paid its highest tribute to the South African government for its commitment towards protecting 20 percent of its coastline in Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). In an event hosted at the Two Oceans Aquarium last night, the Director-General of WWF International, Dr Claude Martin, presented the prestigious WWF Gift to the Earth award to the South African Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Marthinus van Schalkwyk, who accepted the award on behalf of the South African government. WWF's Gift to the Earth is the organisation’s highest recognition for globally significant conservation achievements.
Scientists call Shell project a threat to whale survival July 2004 Sorrento/Italy. WWF calls on Royal Dutch Shell to suspend the Sakhalin oil project in the Russian Far East pending a full review after the International Whaling Commission endorsed a report describing this project as a threat to the survival of the critically endangered western gray whale. An accompanying resolution – proposed by the UK, South Africa, Belgium, and Germany – was adopted by consensus at the IWC annual meeting in Sorrento.
Global marine parks cheaper than government spending on harmful fishing subsidies July 2004 Stellenbosch, South Africa A new study by WWF and the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds published last month in the science journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences estimates that establishing global networks of marine protected areas (MPAs) covering 30 percent of the world's oceans would cost US$12-14 billion annually. This is less than the US$15-30 billion currently being spent each year on economically and environmentally damaging subsidies to commercial fisheries.
WWF-SA and Table Mountain Fund welcome listing of Floral Kingdom as world Heritage site July 2004 Cape Town, South Africa. WWF-SA and Table Mountain Fund (TMF) welcomed the announcement yesterday (30 June 2004) that the Cape Floristic Region has been given international recognition and honoured by the global community as South Africa’s sixth World Heritage Site.
Great Barrier Reef protection sets a global precedent July 2004 Gland, Switzerland. Australia's Great Barrier Reef today became the world’s largest network of marine highly protected areas, as a new zoning plan comes into effect. This follows a four-year campaign by WWF, the global conservation organisation.
Global network of marine parks would cost less than current government expenditures on harmful fishing subsidies June 2004 Gland, Switzerland - A new study by WWF and the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds published today in the science journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences estimates that establishing global networks of marine protected areas covering 30 per cent of the world's oceans would cost US$12-14 billion annually. This is less than the US$15-30 billion already spent each year on economically and environmentally damaging subsidies to commercial fisheries, points out WWF.
WWF International President Chief Anyaoku receives Madagasy Medal of Honour June 2004 Antananarivo, Madagascar - WWF International President Chief Emeka Anyaoku today was bestowed with the highest honour of the Republic of Madagascar in recognition of his contributions to promote sustainable development and the protection of biodiversity. He was named a “Commandeur de l’Ordre National Malagasy” and was decorated by the President of the Republic of Madagascar, HE Marc Ravalomanana.
Panda survey helps create new generation of conservationists June 2004 The news from China’s Third National Panda Survey is good — there are over 40% more giant pandas in the wild than previously thought. But in addition to gathering valuable new information on panda numbers and habitat, the survey has given nature reserve workers throughout the country important new skills that will strengthen panda conservation.
WWF-South Africa welcomes announcement of new Marine Protected Areas June 2004 The announcement today by the Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Marthinus van Schalkwyk, of the proclamation of four new Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) has been welcomed by WWF-South Africa.
Table Mountain and the Himalayan Tahr June 2004 Stellenbosch, 26 May 2004. WWF-SA, BirdLife SA, WESSA and the Wilderness Foundation support the South African National Parks (SanParks) in their attempts to fulfil their duties to manage the Table Mountain National Park and ensure the park’s long-term value for the citizens of South Africa as well as the world.
International Protections for Seahorses Take Effect May 15 May 2004 Vancouver – A monogamous lifestyle and male pregnancy aren’t the only things that distinguish seahorses from other marine life. Starting May 15, international trade rules kick in for seahorses – making them one of the first commercially valuable marine species to be managed by the world’s largest wildlife treaty. North American aquariums and zoos will mark the occasion with public education events this week.
Landmark toxics treaty becomes international law May 2004 Gland, Switzerland – WWF today said that the entry into force of the Stockholm Convention on persistent organic pollutants (POPs) will significantly reduce toxic chemical threats to wildlife and people throughout the world.
Wetland at Harold Porter National Botanical Garden May 2004 An area in the garden where two of the streams meet, where the some of the soil is waterlogged all year round, and where other soil remains damp, has been specifically designated as the Wetland Area to form part of our Four Ecosystems Trail. This trail comprises a Wetland Area, a Fynbos Area, a Dune Area and a Forest Area. When complete, the trail will be wheelchair-friendly, negotiable for prams and easily accessible to people who walk with some difficulty. The length of the trail is just over 500m, starting from the entrance of the Garden and returning to the same point.
New fishing hook could reduce turtle deaths by 90 per cent April 2004 Gland, Switzerland - Changing the shape of traditional fishing hooks and using a different bait could reduce the number of turtles accidentally snagged and killed by longline fisheries by up to 90 percent, says WWF, the global conservation organisation.
Thanks to Africa Geographic subscribers from South African Eco-Schools! April 2004 Eco-Schools in South Africa were delighted to receive a surprise subscription to Africa Geographic magazine. The magazine has invited readers to take out a gift subscription for schools in South Africa. Injoloba High School in Howick, KwaZulu Natal is one of the lucky Eco-Schools in South Africa to receive a gift subscription from an Africa Geographic reader.
South African hake trawl fishery meets standards for responsible fishing April 2004 WWF South Africa today welcomed the news that South Africa's hake trawl fishery has become the first fishery in Africa to be certified by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) as meeting its standards of responsible management.
New Trustees appointed April 2004 The World Wide Fund for Nature South Africa (WWF-SA) has announced the appointment of 36 new trustees. Mr Cyril Ramaphosa, Chairman of Millennium Consolidated Investments, Dr Danisa Baloyi, Deputy Chairman of SA Tourism, Mrs Bridgette Radebe, Chairperson of Mmakau Mining and Mr Tim Modise, Chairman of Proudly South African, are only a few of the new trustees that have been appointed with immediate effect.
Urgent action needed to stop rapid rate of Amazon deforestation April 2004 Brasil/Gland – With new figures showing no let up in the shocking rate of deforestation in the Amazon, WWF, the global conservation organisation, calls on the Brazilian government to do much more to halt the increasingly rapid destruction of the world's largest and most important rainforest.
Great Barrier Reef: April 2004 Australian Senate approves plan for the world's largest protected reef system
Loans for the future April 2004 The idea of a small loan to get a new business up and running is nothing new. But for the world's poorest, access to such finance is often impossible. A project in Tanzania is showing that loans of just a few tens of dollars can make all the difference when it comes to starting an environmentally friendly way of living.
Washing away poverty March 2004 This year, the slogan for National Water Week from 22 – 28 March is Water Washing Away Poverty, and WWF-SA’s premier freshwater project, the Mondi Wetlands Project (MWP), believes that wetland care can go a long way towards easing poverty.
The township comes to the mountain March 2004 “Wouldn’t it be great to take groups of township youth for a walk on Table Mountain?” These were the words of former UCT Vice Chancellor Dr Mamphela Ramphele to Andrew Muir, CEO of the Wilderness Foundation, while taking a walk on the this glorious mountain a decade ago. And so the Pride of Table Mountain (PTM) Project was born.
WWF-SA delighted at announcement of new Marine Protected Areas March 2004 The announcement today by the Minister of Environemtnal Affairs and Tourism, Mohammed Valli Moosa, of his intention to designate five new Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) was greatly welcomed by WWF South Africa.
Profit ahead of conservation – tuna farming in the Mediterranean is out of control. March 2004 Gland, Switzerland – The booming tuna farming industry in the Mediterranean is spiralling out of control and is threatening the survival of the highly endangered bluefin tuna, WWF announced today. The conservation organisation has left an international body on tuna farming practices for putting profit ahead of conservation, and is highly critical of the EU, whose subsidies boost tuna fishing and farming activities.
South African schools add conservation to the curriculum. March 2004 The first year of a pilot project to introduce the Eco-Schools Programme into South Africa has been extremely successful. Over 140 schools registered with the programme in 2003 -- nearly three times the expected number. Eco-Schools promotes curriculum-based action for a healthy environment.
The Useful Plants Garden at Edith Stephens Wetland Park March 2004 The implementation of the Kirstenbosch Useful Plant Garden Project (KUPGP) included two phases: Phase one sawthe development of the Useful Plants Garden (UPG) at Kirstenbosch, with phase two focussing on engaging the community in the development of a useful plants garden at the Edith Stephens Wetland Park .
Alien invaders in our seas February 2004 Every day, on nearly every ship cruising the world's oceans and lakes, millions of stowaways are hitching a lift. When set free at the end of their voyage, some set up home in their new surroundings — wreaking havoc on the local ecosystem and sometimes affecting human health as well.
The world's environment: not a bad investment February 2004 In it's simplest sense, a good investment is one that either creates wealth, or prevents the destruction of wealth. The world's natural environment does both these things. So one might think that governments and the international community would invest heavily in the protection of natural ecosystems and biodiversity to ensure the continued economic benefits that they provide. Sadly, this is not the case.
Sea bed trawling, the greatest threat to deep seas biodiversity February 2004 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – High seas bottom trawl fishing – which consists of dragging heavy chains, nets and steel plates across the ocean floor – is the single greatest threat to highly vulnerable deep sea environments and the biodiversity they shelter, a new report released today by WWF, IUCN – The World Conservation Union, and the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) shows. The three organizations believe these fragile marine habitats could be protected with little significant economic impact on the global fishing industry.
WWF survey reveals gaps in management of forest protected areas February 2004 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia - The largest ever global assessment of the management of forest protected areas was released today by WWF, the conservation organization, at the Conference of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD CoP7). The survey shows that poaching, agricultural encroachment, illegal logging and over-harvesting of non-timber products are the main threats to forest protected areas.
Up To 26 Times More Fish Found on Reefs Near Mangrove Forests, New Nature Study Shows February 2004 Washington, DC – A study to be published tomorrow in the journal Nature has found the strongest link to date between the productivity of coral reef fisheries and the health of nearby mangrove forests. The study compared the numbers and amount of fish on reefs near mangrove forests to reefs far from any mangroves. One species, blue striped grunt, was found to be 26 times - or 2667 percent - more abundant on reefs near healthy mangroves, measured in total biomass.
Lecture by Professor Norman Myers February 2004 At the invitation of WWF-SA, noted conservationist and consultant on environment and development, Prof Norman Myers, will be giving a talk in Cape Town this week, entitled Our Environmental Prospect: Time of Breakdown or Breakthrough? The talk will take place on Thursday, February 5 at 19.30, at the John Day Zoology Building, LT2, UCT Upper Campus.
Poverty alleviation depends on wetlands February 2004 For those of us living in urban areas, a stocked larder means little more than a trip to the supermarket. But for poor, rural communities, the picture is a lot more complicated. Many depend on the life-giving resources of wetlands, which for these communities serve not only as an invaluable source of clean water, but also provide fertile land for the cultivation of crops, and plant material for the construction of dwellings.
The impact of climate change on biodiversity January 2004 The ninth session of the Conference of Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), held in December 2003 in Milan, gave rise to a number of published studies linking the impacts of climate change to biodiversity.
Et two brutus? January 2004 It’s been three long years, but at last Brutus the Rondevlei hippo is happy. Today (Monday 26 January) at 6am, two more cows were finally added to his harem.
Conservation goes 3D January 2004 Constructing 3D models might seem like kids' stuff, but it's proving a valuable tool to bring ethnic minorities and government officials together to conserve the forests of Vietnam's Central Annamite mountains.
Westlake Wetlands Walkway January 2004 It all started years ago on Arbour Day. Zandvlei Trust is an environmental organisation interested in the conservation of Zandvlei; it’s water quality, rivers, indigenous fauna, flora and bird life. In our effort to enhance this natural resource for the benefit of all, we decided to draw attention to the value of the Westlake Wetlands by developing a pavement garden. We started in a small way planting strandveld type shrubs and flowers annually on arbour day.
Cape Town Schools produce 'Eco-Schools' video January 2004 There's a buzz as the Edu-Media van pulls up in the car park. "Kom dra, manne!" shouts Dirk as he offloads camera, tripods, lights and extension leads. The senior boys have the privilege of carrying the hallowed boxes to the classroom. Proud principals, nervous interviewees, gesticulating children - all in a day's work for Patricia Jantjes and Dirk Binneman, video producers from the Western Cape Education Department.
Eastern Cape Rocky January 2004 Creating Community Awareness to Save the Endangered Sandelia bainsii.
Hadeda Island December 2003 Hadeda Island is a pack of teaching and learning support materials that takes an imaginative look at birds to stimulate learning about habitats, environmental responsibility and democratic processes. These primary level materials have been developed in partnership with Share-Net and the Rhodes University Environmental Education Unit, supported by WWF with funding from Rand Merchant Bank.
On the ground: WWF Indochina’s MOSAIC project December 2003 Some of the world’s most endangered species, including the tiger and Asian elephant, still inhabit the moist mountain forests of Quang Nam in central Vietnam. Here too under the rainforest’s canopy can be found species so rare that until just a decade ago they were unknown to science.
Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park indigenous plant nursery December 2003 The Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park Indigenous Plant Nursery Project is a partnership between Ezemvelo KwaZulu-Natal Wildlife, WWF-SA and the Anglo-American Chairman’s Fund to provide educational and conservation responses to this growing environmental issue.
More ivory than elephants in three West African countries December 2003 There is more illegal ivory than elephants in three key ivory trading countries in West Africa, according to a new report launched today by TRAFFIC, the wildlife trade monitoring network and WWF, the conservation organization.
Zulu Botanical Knowledge project December 2003 The Zulu Botanical Knowledge Project, sponsored by WWF-SA and the National Research Foundation (NRF), focuses on Zulu plant names and their meanings.
Official, long-awaited total driftnet ban in the Mediterranean a major victory December 2003 Gland, Switzerland - The adoption and enforcement by the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tuna (ICCAT) of a recommendation which makes illegal for its member States to use driftnets in the Mediterranean is a major victory, said WWF today. The conservation organization has been fighting for such a decision for more than 10 years.
Russian election politicking over Kyoto Protocol nothing more than hot air December 2003 Milan, Italy: The statement of a Russian economic advisor against the Kyoto Protocol was nothing more than pre-election bluster, ahead of Moscow’s Duma election this Sunday, according to the Climate Action Network, speaking at the protocol talks in Milan.
Dr Rupert wins prestigious WWF Duke of Edinburgh award November 2003 London, 26/11/2003, 14h00 GMT… – Dr Anton Rupert has been acknowledged as one of the world’s foremost roleplayers in conservation with the award of the prestigious WWF Duke of Edinburgh Conservation Medal for 2003.
First seven Cape Town schools to fly their Eco-flags November 2003 Cape Town, South Africa – The first Eco-Schools award ceremony for Western Cape schools takes place at the V&A Waterfront on 21 November 2003, as part of the Earth Festival hosted by the City of Cape Town from 14 - 23 November.
Plants can spice up your life November 2003 Cape Town, South Africa – To many of us, a plant is a plant – something attractive and green to decorate your home or garden. Those who know a bit more about them know some are edible, and still more can be used to treat a host of ailments. But who’d have thought that plants are useful in construction, for craft and weaving, to treat snake bites, banish headaches and even provide relief for sexual maladies?
First schools to achieve Eco-School status in Africa November 2003 Cape Town, South Africa – The first Eco-Schools award ceremony in South Africa, and indeed Africa, will take place at Cintsa East Public School in Cintsa, Eastern Cape on 18 November 2003, where 14 schools will be rewarded for their commendable efforts over the past six months.
WWF's Passport - a media resource tool November 2003 How about looking for strong environmental stories from around the world on WWF's campaigning website passport.panda.org.
Illegal driftnets continue to kill thousands of dolphins in the Mediterranean November 2003 Gland, Switzerland - WWF, the conservation organization today warned that illegal driftnets are still killing thousands of dolphins - and other vulnerable species - every year in the Mediterranean, despite the European Union's ban on driftnet fishing from 1 January 2002, and UN moratorium on large scale driftnets from 1992.
Review rhino breeding programme says WWF November 2003 Petaling Jaya, November 18th 2003… WWF Malaysia today described the deaths of the Sumatran rhinos in the Sungai Dusun breeding programme as a sad loss.
WWF slams Canada and Russia for blocking listing of asbestos as a dangerous substance November 2003 Geneva, Switzerland – WWF, the conservation organization, condemns Canada and Russia for leading a revolt against the listing of chrysotile asbestos on a major international toxics convention, despite scientific findings showing that this substance is harmful for human health and the environment, and clear obligations under the treaty for such a listing.
Toll road and heavy metal mining not the way to go in Xolobeni November 2003 Cape Town, South Africa, 03/10/28…Acknowledging that the Xolobeni region of South Africa’s Wild Coast was in urgent need of socio–economic development, WWF South Africa maintains that the proposed N2 toll road and heavy metal mining in the region, pose an inherent threat to the natural environment and its people.
Black Rhino project attracts interest from private landowners October 2003 Durban, South Africa 29 October 2003…Landowners in the KwaZulu-Natal region are lining up to become custodians of black rhino – in exchange for suitable land and the provision of security.
Weakened European chemical law needs beefing up - WWF October 2003 Brussels, Belgium - The draft EU law on chemicals published today by the European Commission is a ‘light’ version that needs beefing up by the European Parliament and the Council of EU Ministers said WWF, the conservation organization.
South Africa “ underinsured” against marine pollution disasters October 2003 The recent re-floating of the Sealand Express off Sunset Beach near Cape Town averted a near-certain environmental disaster. But it has called into question the adequacy of South Africa’s readiness in the event of a large-scale environmental catastrophe caused by a shipping casualty.
WWF-SA welcomes heavy metal-free fuel initiative October 2003 WWF-SA applauds the action taken by British Petroleum (BP) to produce unleaded fuel that is free of heavy metals. BP's investment is in line with government's requirement for oil refineries to produce only lead-free fuel by 2006.
Cities warned to plan ahead to avoid water shortage October 2003 SA's taps could soon run dry, according to a new World Bank World Wide Fund (WWF) report projecting that water resources in the country's major cities, particularly Johannesburg, would be exhausted by 2020.
WWF and Lafarge - partners in restoring degraded forests September 2003 Quebec, Canada: With the world losing millions of hectares of forests every year, Lafarge and WWF today said that restoring degraded forest landscapes is vital to reduce the loss in biodiversity. The call came as the world’s forestry experts gather at the World Forestry Congress. The world leader in building materials and the conservation organization are associated in a partnership, of which forest restoration is a central part.
Senegal declares first ever marine protected areas September 2003 Durban, South Africa – Senegalese Fisheries Minister Pape Diouf today announced the creation of four marine protected areas in Senegal’s coastal zone, effectively protecting fisheries and biodiversity covering more than 7,500 square kilometers. The announcement, made near the close of the World Parks Congress, represents the first marine protected areas for Senegal.
Climate change – new, big threat to protected areas September 2003 Durban, South Africa – Amidst heat waves, droughts, forest fires and other extreme weather events over the past months, WWF warns at the ongoing 5th World Parks Congress that such climate change impacts will damage protected areas and other valuable habitats unless greenhouse gas emissions are reduced drastically.
South Africa fails to make use of International Trade Agreement in threatened abalone fishery September 2003 Cape Town, South Africa, September 2003…Attempts to stem the illegal trade in South Africa’s endemic abalone species could benefit by regulating international trade in the species in terms of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), according to TRAFFIC*, the wildlife trade monitoring network and WWF South Africa.
WWF-SA commits R23 million to conservation funding in 2003 September 2003 WWF-SA was responsible for mobilising funding of R23.3 million from various sources for conservation activities during the past financial year, distributed across six major eco-regions, environmental education, conservation of species and climate change.
New elephant subspecies discovered September 2003 Petaling Jaya, Malaysia - DNA tests have shown that the elephants living on the island of Borneo, shared by Malaysia and Indonesia, are an indigenous and genetically distinct subspecies of Asian elephant, with different characteristics from their cousins on mainland Asia and Sumatra. Conservation of the subspecies, which has been given the common name of Borneo pygmy elephants, should be managed separately from other Asian elephants.
Why we need the WTO September 2003 Macdonalds and Starbucks are battening down the hatches as thousands of anti-globalization protesters threaten to march on Mexico's hottest tourist playground, Cancún. As security services gear up for another onslaught on the WTO, Claude Martin, Director General of WWF International, says he believes we do need the WTO — but a reformed version that focuses on its core business.
WWF-SA lauds South Africa's role in the seizure of the Viarsa August 2003 WWF South Africa lauds the action taken by the South African government in assisting in the seizure of the illegal toothfish vessel the Viarsa, and the arrest of her Captain and Crew. Although the Viarsa was originally sighted fishing illegally around Australia's Heard Island, South Africa faces a very similar predicament in the management of its marine resources around the Prince Edward Islands.
Black rhino range expansion project August 2003 The Black Rhino Range Expansion Project, a partnership between WWF Netherlands and Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, aims to boost numbers of the critically endangered black rhino by increasing the land available for the animals’ conservation, reducing pressure on existing reserves and providing new territory in which they can breed up quickly.
A marketing career with a difference August 2003 WWF-South Africa, the Stellenbosch based local arm of the internationally acclaimed environmental organisation, has an opportunity for an inspired individual who shares our passion and enthusiasm for the natural environment. The position reports directly to the Chief Executive.
Putting conservation on the map August 2003 In the 35 years since its inception WWF South Africa has been instrumental in the establishment or expansion of 11 national parks and more than 30 nature reserves throughout South Africa - a feat unequalled by any other private conservation body on the sub-continent.
CANON and WWF – developing together July 2003 To help attain sustainable, recycling oriented societies and fulfill its responsibilities as a good corporate citizen, Canon has adopted an active environmentally conscience management structure. In support of this, Canon Europa has signed an international licensing agreement with WWF, while Canon South Africa have been a valued conservation partner of WWF-SA for the past five years.
On the ground: WWF in East Africa July 2003 pornoEast Africa is probably best known for its savannas, home to the highest density of large mammal populations in the world. But this spectacular area has much more in store - from coral reefs to snow-capped mountains, tropical forests to deserts. This diversity and mass of wildlife played a key role in the formation of the international conservation movement, and specifically the establishment of WWF. Find out about our work in East Africa.porno porno
SA abalone stocks continue to face depletion July 2003 TRAFFIC, the wildlife trade monitoring network which works in partnership with WWF and IUCN to ensure that trade in wild plants and animals is not a threat to the conservation of nature, has warned that the abalone or perlemoen resource is facing commercial extinction in the not-too-distant future, especially if the current trend in illegal harvesting continues.
Loeries come home to roost at WWF-SA July 2003 It’s not exactly an endangered bird, but the elusive Loerie has managed to find its way under the protective wing of WWF-SA, the conservation organisation.
New Marine Programme Manager ready to face deep challenges June 2003 Deon Nel, the new champion at the helm of WWF-SA's Marine Programme, is ready to co-ordinate support for the many deep challenges faced by Marine Conservation in South Africa.
Visiting the Nylsvley project June 2003 Thursday 5 June saw a group of WWF-SA corporate supporters and major donors visiting Nylsvley Nature Reserve, located between Nylstroom and Naboomspruit. Nylsvley is one of the largest floodplains or vleis in South Africa.
Cape schools taking an active role in environmental education June 2003 In a progressive step towards encouraging school-based environmental policy development in South Africa and to commemorate World Environment Week 2003, the Schools Environmental Policy Project has launched its second book entitled Schools for a Sustainable Development Environment in the City of Cape Town.
Green Trust Awards Winners Announced June 2003 Individuals and projects that have displayed exceptional commitment to the sustainable conservation and development of South Africa’s natural resources, were recognised by the country’s leading environmental awards, The Green Trust Awards in association with Nedbank Green and the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEAT) at a gala evening held in Sandton, Johannesburg on Wednesday June 04, the eve of World Environment Day.
Getting smart about the environment May 2003 Up until recently environmental education (EE), hasn’t featured on the radar screens of the national education curriculum, but is now being recognised as an important driver of ecological, economic and socio-political understanding.
Teachers contributing to sustainable living in the Kogelberg May 2003 The Kogelberg Biosphere Reserves Schools Environmental Project aims to encourage better teaching and learning, to contribute to a healthy, enriching, happy and more sustainable environment and to increase awareness of the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve in the schools within the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve. These will all contribute to sustainable living within the KBR.
Once they were hunted May 2003 Once hunted to the verge of extinction, the magnificent southern right whale has not only staged a comeback but is now a major revenue earner for South Africa.
Helping mussels grow May 2003 The Green Trust’s Ronwyn Brereton-Stiles has received the highest international recognition – the WWF-US’s Women and Conservation Recognition Award – for her work in Kosi Bay.
New legislation on plastic carrier bags May 2003 WWF-SA views the recently enacted legislation on plastic carrier bags in a positive light, and shares the view held by the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism that it will serve to reduce the number of discarded plastic bags into the environment.
Getting to know our Bergwatch project May 2003 Formed in 1991 by a group of concerned organizations and individuals, Bergwatch now operates as a dedicated project of the Wildlife and Environment Society of SA.
Survey shows that Europeans want more protected forests, WWF April 2003 Gland, Switzerland – A WWF-commissioned independent opinion survey across 12 European countries, released today, finds 93 percent of the population believe it is important that forests are well protected, and 80 percent that there should be more protected forest areas like national parks in their country.
Giant boost for the giant panda April 2003 Beijing, China - WWF, the conservation organization, welcomes the confirmation today, Earth Day, by the Chinese government that they will nearly double protected areas for giant pandas in the Qinling mountain range by creating five new panda reserves and five panda ‘corridors’ in the area.
Hooked on tagging April 2003 More than 100 000 fish of over 300 species have been tagged during the Distell/Oceanographic Research Institute/WWF-SA linefish tagging project, now in its 18th year and the biggest of its kind in the world. As many as 5% of these individuals have been recaptured and this has led to better management of our linefishery.
The Schools Water Action Project (SWAP) April 2003 SWAP started off in partnership with the University of Stellenbosch, attempting to conduct water quality monitoring of local rivers, using very simple test kits. It soon became obvious that those kits did not meet the needs of either the City of Johannesburg’s Department of Water and Waste and Rand Water’s water quality monitoring programmes.
Iceland threatens to resume whaling April 2003 Gland, Switzerland - WWF, the conservation organization, today condemned Iceland's proposal for the resumption of whaling on three species of large whales, including Northern Minkes and endangered Fin and Sei whales.
Identification of risk areas could prevent spill April 2003 Brasília – If Brazilian States had mapped its areas of risk the toxic spill at the Pomba river could have been avoided. But neither state nor Federal authorities have identified those areas or elaborated contingency plans for damage limitation. “It’s necessary to have a plan of action to avoid accidents and minimise risks”, said Samuel Barrêto, coordinator of WWF-Brazil’s Water For Life Programme. “It’s more expensive to fix than to prevent.”
Sharing Experiences of School Environmental Policy Development April 2003 A partnership between the City of Cape Town, Old Mutual and the conservation organisation WWF-SA has been helping 14 schools in Cape Town to develop and implement their own school environmental policies. Over the course of 2002, these schools attended a series of workshops at which they learned how to conduct an environmental audit, decide on priorities for action, and draft their own policies and action plans.
World Water Forum looking backwards to the future of water March 2003 A spate of reports ahead of this week's World Water Forum have highlighted the world's growing water crisis — diminishing water supplies, billions of people lacking access to basic water and sanitation services, and the failing health of freshwater ecosystems.
Amendments for the World Water Forum's draft ministerial declaration March 2003 WWF is alarmed at the lack of key actions identified in the Forum's draft ministerial declaration to promote sustainability. WWF calls on the government delegates to enhance the declaration as follows:
Goodbye and good luck March 2003 We are sad to say goodbye to Brett Myrdal, who has served as Manager of the Table Mountain Fund (TMF) for the past five years. We are thrilled, however, that we will still be working closely with him in his new position as Park Manager of the Cape Peninsula National Park.
Three Eastern Cape Museums and the Eastern Cape Rocky March 2003 Three museums in the Eastern Cape, the Albany Museum in Grahamstown, the Amathole Museum in Kingwilliam’s Town and the East London Museum have recently installed displays on the endangered Eastern Cape Rocky. These displays stem from a study of the Eastern Cape Rocky which is a WWF-SA supported project.
Eskom donates R1.4 million to Ukuvuka for Joe Slovo Greening project February 2003 The Eskom Development Foundation donated more than R1.4 million to the Santam / Cape Argus Ukuvuka: Operation Firestop Campaign for the development of the Joe Slovo Greening project, at the Ukuvuka third anniversary event held at the St. Francis College in Langa on Friday.
Ancient logbooks of arctic explorers provide new insight on climate change February 2003 Oslo, Norway – The five-hundred year old logbooks of long-dead arctic explorers are helping to reveal the impact of climate change on arctic sea ice, WWF, the conservation organization, and the Norwegian Polar Institute (NPI)* announced today.
Is your ice cream bad for elephants? February 2003 The world's growing demand for palm oil — a major ingredient of soap, moisturizer, lipstick, and food stuffs — will likely lead to a doubling in the area of oil palm plantations in Indonesia. Investors, retailers, and consumers must ensure that this expansion does not come at the expense of the country's already dwindling forests, and the animals that depend on them.
Lack of Focus in Agriculture Policy Threatens Development Goals February 2003 Washington DC, USA - WWF, the conservation organization today warned that agricultural investment policies must be dramatically rethought if they are to help reduce poverty and loss of biodiversity in developing countries.
From unemployed to employer February 2003 Less than a year ago, Wendy Maqala was unemployed. Since leaving school, she’d never really managed to generate much income, at best selling small items like ice-cream or packets of chips. But in November last year she was awarded the prize for the best business plan for emerging entrepreneurs by the Foundation for Economic and Business Development (FEBDEV) in the Western Cape.
Fish farming industry sourcing from overfished fisheries - WWF February 2003 Gland, Switzerland - WWF, the conservation organization, today warned in a new report that the global demand for fish feed is threatening already pressured wild fish stocks, and that the rapidly growing aquaculture industry could well be using all of the world’s fish oil and half of its fishmeal by 2010.
Teachers lead the marine way February 2003 They come from all over the Durban Metro region. They have crawled around the rocky shores, clambered around a huge research ship, made creative puppets and been filmed for TV. They have argued and agreed, fought and made up, learnt and forgotten and re learnt again. They have made new friends and developed a caring for the oceans. Who are these people? They are the educators of the Treasure Chest project.
What happens to our waste? January 2003 South Africans produce between 3.5kg and 12kg of waste per person per week. That is about two black bins of waste per week for the average sized household. About 80% of this waste can be recycled: glass, paper, plastic, metal and food waste, which means that only 20% of household waste needs to be disposed of at a landfill site.
WWF: Africa needs better fishing deals from the EU January 2003 Brussels, Belgium - EU Fisheries Ministers must give the European Commission a strong mandate to urgently and rigorously implement its plans for improving fishing agreements with developing countries, WWF, the conservation organization, said today.
Zulu Botanical knowledge project January 2003 The Zulu Botanical Knowledge Project, sponsored by WWF-SA and the National Research Foundation (NRF), focuses on Zulu plant names and their meanings.
ST Lucia Elephant warning January 2003 Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife and the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park Authority (GSWPA) report that a herd of the newly introduced elephants in the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park is being regularly seen in part of the south-western section of the Park close to the R618 road between Mtubatuba and St Lucia town.
