News > SA, Norway join forces for 'green' 2010

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	– SA, Norway join forces for 'green' 2010

At the Johannesburg Soccer Stadium, South Africa's flagship 2010 venue, the Norwegian Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg pledged R1.2-million on behalf of his government, to help Johannesburg host a "green" 2010 Fifa World Cup.

The Minister said the money would be used to plant trees, which will counteract the carbon emissions in the city. Stoltenberg commented, "We are proud to be able to work together with South Africa and make this championship as 'green' and as environmentally friendly as possible."

In addition the Norwegian government has also committed R750 000 for a feasibility study of a carbon offsetting programme in partnership with South Africa’s Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism.

As a result of the influx of tourists to Johannesburg and an increase in travel, both by air and road, there is little doubt that the event will make an impact on Johannesburg’s carbon footprint.

The Norwegian embassy, together with the Department, has held meetings to explore initiatives that would make the World Cup as environmentally friendly as possible.

The executive director of the City's 2010 unit, Sibongile Mazibuko said, "Through innovation and creative planning we can introduce carbon offset measures to mitigate the impact of the event on our environment.”

Norway is regarded as one of the global leaders in research in this field. Mazibuko added, “We welcome Norway’s contribution to this initiative."

Johannesburg's mayoral committee has been focusing on scoring a green world cup. The City of Johannesburg has been busy planting trees, mainly in previously disadvantaged areas, and plans to achieve its target of planting 200 000 trees by 2010.

Other greening projects include the rehabilitation of the Kliprivier-Klipspruit catchment area in Soweto, which involves the creation of green ways and open spaces for the community’s enjoyment.

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