Green Connection calls for ocean-driven growth
As the world commemorates World Environment Day, the Green Connection has urged the government to prioritise economic growth in the environmental sector, with a critical focus on ocean-related activities.
World Environment Day is celebrated on 5 June annually.
The organisation's strategic lead, Liz McDaid, said it is important to build on tourism and other ocean uses to safeguard the future of people whose livelihoods depend on the ocean.
“We have over 3000 kilometres of coastline in South Africa, with thousands of families that depend on it. We need to protect the ocean," said McDaid.
“The government needs to uphold the constitution and the future of people whose livelihood depends on the sea and to ensure that our heritage and our environment are protected for future generations, and that involves the ocean, where most of our oxygen comes from.”
She added that the government needs to promote economic growth that is compatible with keeping the environment clean and the ocean healthy.
“Environmental Day and Ocean Day are important days for the government to acknowledge the value of the ocean in looking after people’s health and livelihoods.”
World Ocean Day will be commemorated on Sunday.
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