KNYSNA NEWS - National Arbor Week 2016, celebrated from September 1 to 7, aims to raise awareness of the importance of trees.
This year Arbor Week's theme is Forest and Water, and Knysna executive mayor Eleanore Bouw-Spies joined the national environmental campaign by planting trees at Rheenendal's Humpty Dumpty Creche and Youth Centre on September 3.
Bouw-Spies discussed the significance of Arbor Week and its impact on creating a more sustainable future. "Arbor Week aims to promote a better understanding of the importance of trees; it also encourages the planting of trees in our communities as well as highlighting the importance of trees for creating a sustainable future," she said.
"This year's theme focuses on protecting our indigenous forests, dealing with climate change and planting indigenous trees that help to save water. As we are all aware, the country has faced serious water shortages and we have constantly urged our communities to conserve water. Planting indigenous trees plays a significant role in water conservation.
"I am pleased that young children are taught at such an early age about environmental issues. It is great to see our youth taking the initiative to beautify our town and also in the process becoming more environmentally conscious. If we continue to work together with our youngsters, we can really build a town where people and nature prosper," she concluded.
Arbor Day originated in Switzerland during the 15th Century to raise awareness among people about the importance of trees. In South Africa, Arbor Day started in 1983 and in 1997 it was extended to a national Arbor Week.
Knysna executive mayor Eleanore Bouw-Spies with members of the Knysna Youth Desk and Humpty Dumpty Creche pupils at a tree planting ceremony on September 3.
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