Green Home Magazine Issue12

greenhome I living informed today I

magazine R 29 (VAT INCL.)

Cradle to Grave

rethinking product lifecycles

Passivhaus Aspirations klein kastanjes

Thaba Ya Batswana highveld hideaway

Issue 12 ISSN 2223-5404

9

772223 540014

12012

What the Frack?

shale gas exploration in SA

WE DIDN’T HEAR HIS CHILD’S LAUGHTER ECHO THROUGH THE HALL We didn’t host his engagement party We didn’t decide what colours the curtains should be We didn’t do the heavy lifting when he moved in

WE DID HELP BUILD THE HOUSE WHERE IT ALL STARTED CREATING POSSIBILITIES

With the planet as one of our core values, we assess the carbon footprint of each and every one of our operations and products while actively striving to drive down our impact on the environment.

www.afrisam.com

GREEN home

As the year draws to its close everyone who has been working too hard is looking forward to a Christmas holiday and some down time with their friends and family. But underlying the festive season is the constant call to buy stuff and in particular expensive gifts as a way of honouring the relationships we have with one another.

Last year I nearly skipped Christmas altogether because I had not bought any gifts and my family was in disarray; to say the festive cheer was lacking would be an understatement. But on Christmas morning I was told to “pull myself together” and in the end I had a happy day spent sharing time and humour with some good friends who cooked a feast and displayed their love and affection for their guests via their acts of service.

This got me thinking about the concept of gifting and what could be given that would last longer than a store bought gift.

The value of friendship, of time taken to do what you love doing, or fixing something that was broken (relationship or appliance) all add up to something longer lasting. Small gifts like plants or delicious home-made biscuits or preserves or useful items made by craftsmen who sell their wares at markets are great tokens of appreciation for those you love.

By supporting local markets and people who have taken time to create from their heart you will be partaking in supporting a whole new gift economy; one that keeps on giving. This is why you won’t see any splashy Christmas gift section in the magazine.

Instead you will find consumer awareness information, summer planting guidelines and inspiring stories from young people doing their best for their communities.

However you choose to spend your downtime this year, think of what you can do to give back to those in need and in this country there are still too many to count. So begin with one, and make a world of difference in their unlikely festive season.

EDITOR MANAGING EDITOR SALES MANAGER SALES EXECUTIVE DESIGNER EDITORIAL DIRECTORS ACCOUNTS AND ADMINISTRATION WEBSITE PHYSICAL ADDRESS COMPANY REGISTRATION NUMBER VAT NUMBER

IMAGES AND DIAGRAMS DISTRIBUTION MANAGER ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES

PUBLISHER

Happy holidays.

Melissa

Cover pic: Johann Lourensy Greenhome magazine is audited by ABC

living informed today

Melissa Baird Robyn Brown Annie Pieters Elna Willemse, Esther Kabaso, Jardin Roestorff Travis Arendse rbrown@alive2green.com Gordon Brown, Lloyd Macfarlane, Andrew Fehrsen Suraya Manuel www.alive2green.com | www. greenhomemagazine.co.za Cape Media House, 28 Main Rd, Rondebosch.

TEL: 021 447 4733 FAX: 086 694 7443 2006/206388/23 4130252432 First Published July 2011 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any way or in any form without the prior written consent of the publisher. The opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of the Publisher or the Editor. All editorial contributions are accepted on the understanding that the contributor either owns or has obtained all necessary copyrights and permissions.

Publishers do not endorse claims by advertisers.

Space limitations and source format have affected the size of certain published images and/or diagrams in this publication. For larger PDF versions of these images please contact the Publisher.

Edward MacDonald, distribution@alive2green.com sales@alive2green.com

CONTENTS

November/December 2013

5

6

Talking Garbage

from cradle to grave

Passivhaus Aspirations

gorgeous Constantia living

12

In the Garden

6

summer planting guide

16 Conscious Consumer

20

guide to eco labels

What The Frack?

shale gas exploration in SA

20

24 Travel

Thaba Ya Batswana

26

Books etc

32

Youth

36

Transport Evolution

holiday reading

community game changers

foldable bikes

Subscribeandwin Summer is a perfect time to be more water–wise. Heavy phosphates in conventional soap powder are not good for the waterways. To the rescue comes the rather clever  Biowashball which cleans and cleans and cleans without the use of any soap. New subscribers to Green Home magazine have the chance of winning one of three Biowashballs with the Eco brightener and Aleppo Soap spot and stain remover as prizes, each valued at R500.00. There are also Aleppo body soaps (125 g) to be given away. The give-aways will be awarded to the first 12 new subscribers via the website: www.alive2green.com/ghm-subscriptions/

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A way to inflate the world’s resources!

Save up to 60% on electricity using a COBRA Heat Pump!

Tel: 0861 21 21 21

E-mail:marketing@cobrawatertech.co.za

Website:www.cobra.co.za

Water doesn’t come from a tap.

Water goes on a long and complicated journey to get to you.

Visit journeyofwater.co.Za to learn more about where your water comes from.

Photo Š Hougaard Malan

From the cradle to the grave:

talking garbage

by Michele Beatham Attwood Recycling is the current focus for consumers who don’t want to just trash their used goods, but looking to the future, the life cycle of a product is going to be under intense scrutiny. For a product to be truly worthwhile we need to know it won’t be made with a short term view to obsolescence.

I

own a lot less ‘stuff’ than I used to. I consume less and try to shop wisely.

I recycle where possible. While these lifestyle changes were prompted by the desire to live more simply, with fewer possessions (which does not, it has to be said, eliminate day -to -day clutter!) the positive effects on the environment are a bonus.

More people than ever before are making similar changes, albeit with motives nobler than mine. But is it making a difference? Sometimes, it feels like the burden of a healthier planet is placed entirely on the shoulders of consumers.

www.swartland.co.za

www.greenhomemagazine.co.za

The good news is that because of the efforts of consumers and activists, companies are taking more responsibility for their own products.

Cradle-to-grave is a term used in the life-cycle assessment (LCA) of a product, design to raw materials and production (including emissions, energy and water use, and waste generation) to disposal, to assess its environmental footprint. Design is particularly important as recycling can incur far more expense than necessary when products are not designed with recycling in mind.

Sustainability lies at the heart of BMW’s new i3, the company’s first fully-electric

vehicle, expected to go into production later this year, from the LEED Gold-certified factory in Leipzig to the use of natural and recycled materials to end of life strategies.

Locally, companies like Swartland’s “think long term” philosophy guides every aspect of the manufacturing of the windows and doors ranges, including using every off cut or waste, by making wood laminate, selling shavings and sawdust to farmers and firing the boilers for kiln-drying their wood.

Nike’s less than savoury labour practices have haunted the company for many years, and as well as addressing those more recently, their “considered design” addresses sustainability by reducing waste in all aspects of design and production, and using eco-friendly and non-toxic materials. Their vision is to use as few materials as possible in their products and ensure that they are easily recyclable.

Other Nike innovations include their Reuse-A-Shoe program – they’ve collected over 25 million pairs since its implementation – and the collection and recycling of scrap materials from manufacturing, both of which are utilised for their Nike Grand initiative. This initiative involves collaboration with sports surface companies to provide sport playing surfaces for children.

Conscious consumption makes a difference. If we ask questions, if we challenge companies whose outdated design and manufacture practices impact negatively on the environment, and if we support those who produce with the earth in mind, the bigger the difference we can make.

www.bmw.com

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living

by Stuart Thompson Pics by Johann Lourens The living room opens up onto a spectacular view of the vineyards and mountains.

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living

Passivhaus Aspirations Klein Kastanjes, House Brosens, Constantia, Cape Town www.greenhomemagazine.co.za

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living

The modern windows contrast with the old stonewall of the pool pavilion

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K

lein Kastanjes, home to the Brosens family of four, is located in a unique position in the suburbs of Cape Town between two wine farms with backdrops of the Constantiaberg Mountains to the west and False Bay to the wast. The original old house with a poorly thatched roof was freezing in winter - with the cold north-westerly winds coming in down off the mountains and squeezing in through the old thatch.

The owners were therefore looking for improved thermal performance to make the house warmer and more energy efficient, and wanted to open up and modernise the house with minimal extension to its height and footprint. Numerous different layouts were investigated, including at one point the complete demolition of the house to test the feasibility of building a whole new structure. The client was actively involved in an iterative design process which took nearly 2 years before getting building plan approvals and the builder on site. Then at the first site meeting, upon contact with the contractors, the initial technical aspects of the design were revisited by the client - and the whole scheme changed.

The proposed timber first floor was exchanged for a precast concrete slab system to increase spans internally - which in turn led to the steel frame changing to load bearing brick work! The whole building process became adaptive as detail designs were explored with subcontractors in-situ to achieve integrated solutions.

Although the old house was not a heritage resource it had great character as a result of previous work done by the client, and there was a strong sense that this should be taken through into the new work. The recycling of these special elements, such as wooden doors and sashes with stained glass from the old house, became challenging when placing them in new facades together with large modern openings and aluminium double glazed sliding doors. Stone and slate were chosen as external finishes to the house and roof with metal cladding for the flat roofs and dormers. This allowed for a separation between the modern and the traditional elements resulting in a radical new look for the house. The older original parts of the house were clad in Karoo stone, and roofed with the new slate, while the new bedroom dormers were expressed with bold zinc frames that hold the bedroom balconies. These frames then drop to ground - concealing the plumbing reticulation while providing vertical elements to order the facade.

This reinforces the narrative for the buildings reincarnation – an eclectic mix of contemporary zinc dormers that push out through the traditional slate and stone. The recycled wooden doors and windows are more comfortably located within the deep stone reveals, while the aluminium sliders and louvres track within the dormer frames. Extensive recycling of all the old materials on site; timber into new trusses and of all salvageable fittings carry the spirit of the old house through into the new.

The house responds to all seasons with terraces on the north, west and south sides with entrance from the east. Dappled north light filters in through the koi pond to a cellar beneath the TV room with views of the lazy fish. A water course from this pond circulates around the house via small planted channels to smaller ponds at each terrace before filtering through a reed bed into the natural pool. Overlooking the pool on the upper garden terrace is a double volume stone clad pool pavilion. The tennis court finishes off the lower garden terrace.

The home owner was involved in every aspect of the design process and allowed time for research into the various home systems that were chosen to improve the living environment, although once on site the pressure to complete the project mounted.

The house is fully automated and energy efficient in line with Passivhaus aspirations. Floors, walls and roof are well insulated, new windows and doors are double glazed while existing sashes were re-glazed with low E glass. In summer evaporative cooling is brought in through the roof

DON’T BE A PAWN, BE A KING

Using the Hisense VRF makes sense...we think so too To learn more contact us on: Call: 011 839 0913 | Fax: 011 839 3954 Email: vrf@hisensevrf.co.za Visit: www.hisensevrf.co.za

living at high levels to drop down through the double volumes into the living areas. In winter primary warming is driven by the two large fireplaces situated in the double volumes and a hydronic underfloor heating system. Warm air rising into the volumes is drawn through fans into the bedrooms.

Here it is exhausted via a heat recovery ventilation system, and warmed fresh air is ducted back down to the lower levels ensuring fresh air exchange with minimal heat loss. A scalable solar photovoltaic system generates around two thirds of the electricity consumption for immediate use within the house, with battery storage for back up power trickle fed by the grid.

Rain water is harvested for irrigation and grey water is recycled back to the house for flushing WC’s and for washing laundry.

An insulated hot water ring main feeds

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bathrooms and hydronic towel rails, ensuring hot water on demand and eliminating cold water wastage. The hydronic under floor heating is fed by a hybrid solar thermal & heat pump combination. Heat exchangers transfer required heat into the floor in winter and discharge excess heat into the swimming pool in summer. In addition, the two large fireplaces are fitted with custom made stainless steel hot water manifolds, which at high temperatures circulate hot water to the heat exchangers to boost their efficiency.

The complexity of these systems required an extensive commissioning period and has been a learning process for all involved. Now that the house is operating optimally the client has reported fantastic living conditions, liveability of layout and connection with the outdoors. The project

has served as a case study for the application of an integrated approach to designing and solution-finding from all involved in the process.

The result is a range of elegant and sophisticated energy efficient solutions in combination with passive design principles.

Studio ST&AR, Stuart Thompson, 021 788 5751 MLP Projects, Mark Lunn, 021 705 5783 ADA Consulting Engineers, Noel De Villiers, 021 790 1097

The contemporary staircase becomes a feature in the entrance hall

Heat pumps

Solar PV panels

Pump room and water filters

greenhome

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lighting the way Whether for a private home, a commercial business or a wine farm, you can draw smart energy from the sun for less.

Tel: +27 (0) 21 852 7333 Email: r.jacklin@soventix.com www.soventix.co.za

Soventix SA (Pty) Ltd, a subsidiary of Soventix GmbH in Germany is involved with the development and realisation of roof top and carport solar photovoltaic plants from residential to agricultural as well as large scale solar farms. Whether you finance the solar plant yourself or sign a power purchase agreement, Soventix will ensure you’re protected from the rising costs of energy for the next 30 to 40 years. Not only will you be saving on your energy bills, but you’ll also be contributing to a more sustainable environment. Renewable energy is the future and is more affordable than energy from non-renewable sources. becoming mo

Summer gardening

T

he beginnings of our fully fledged summer and things are hotting up. Depending on where you are in the country, you can expect strong winds or heavy afternoon rainfall. Be prepared for hot and dry conditions. Conserve water by watering in the early morning and evening to avoid excessive evaporation. Feed your garden with compost regularly, mulch well and make sure your plants are getting enough water. If necessary, provide some shade for your plants during the hottest part of the day.

It’s better to have a few less hours of direct sunlight than scorching your plants in the sun.

November Planting Chart Crop

Time for Seedlings to Emerge (days)

Time to Harvest (weeks)

Crop

Time for Seedlings to Emerge (days)

Time to Harvest (weeks)

Root Crops

3-20

5-20

Fruit Crops

6-14

8-20

Carrot

10-20

8-14

Tomato

10-14

12-20

Beetroot

10-14

10-15

Pepper

10-14

14-16

10-14

14-16

Turnip

6-10

10-16

Chilli

Radish

3-5

5-8

Aubergine

10-14

14-16

Cucumber

6-10

16-20

8-20

Pumpkin

6-10

14-17

6-10

10-12

Leaf Crops

12 12

6-21

Spinach

7-10

9-12

Squash

Cabbage

6-10

10-16

Marrow

6-10

12-16

Cauliflower

6-10

10-16

Mielies

7-10

11-12

Lettuce

8-10

10-14

Melon

6-10

14-16

21-28

16-20

Broccoli

6-10

10-16

Potato Tubers

Parsley

21

12-14

Sweet Potato

Marog

7-10

8-12

Legumes

7-10

10-18

Climbing beans

7-10

10-12

Lucerne

7-10

8-10

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18-20

www.greenhomemagazine.co.za

a handy guide to what to plant

By Matthew Koehorst

December Planting Chart Crop

Time for Seedlings to Emerge (days)

Time to Harvest (weeks)

Root Crops

3-20

5-20

Carrot

10-20

8-14

Radish

3-5

5-8

Leaf Crops

6-21

8-20

Cabbage

6-10

10-16

Cauliflower

6-10

10-16

Lettuce

8-10

10-14

Broccoli

6-10

10-16

NZ Spinach

14-21

10

Fruit Crops

6-14

8-20

Tomato

10-14

12-20

Pepper

10-14

14-16

Chilli

10-14

14-16

Aubergine

10-14

14-16

Cucumber

6-10

16-20

Pumpkin

6-10

14-17

Squash

6-10

10-12

Marrow

6-10

12-16

Mielies

7-10

11-12

Melon

6-10

14-16

Potato Tubers

21-28

16-20

Sweet Potato

D

ecember is here, and it’s a month of decadence, revelry and family time for many. Enjoy the lovely hot days, spend time in your garden, eat well, relax. Summer is a great time to catch up on any garden maintenance and reading up on what to plant in the coming months. It’s a slow time for planting out due to the heat, but a good time for planning autumn crops. That said, your summer garden can be very productive if planted right, watered well, and offered protection from too much sun. It’s also a good time to propagate cuttings, feed your garden, prune dead branches and remove spent plants.

18-20

Legumes

7-10

10-18

Climbing beans

7-10

10-12

Bush beans

7-10

10-12

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Product showcase

by Laura Twiggs

What’s hot on the sustainable design block Chic shape-shifter Looking for the perfect home for your flat-screen TV, gaming equipment and sundry techno-gizmos? Named after their late factory foreman whose brain-child it was to recycle pallets and crates into contemporary furniture, the Nkwana Plasma Unit Modular Range from KwaZulu-Natal-based Homewood is hard to beat in both style and functionality. The modular nature means you can configure your ideal combination of spaces, drawers, shelves and cabinets and adjust both the height and width to best suit your living space, all your hi-tech toys and anything from books to wine. What’s more, the pallets can easily be reconfigured into desks, chairs, tables, and even a staircase. And the look is up to you too: with the recycled modules available in several types of wood, you can mix textures and tones or opt for a sleek, uniform finish. www.homewood.co.za Africa’s greenest hotel Having opened in August, Cape Town’s Hotel Verde has scooped 2013’s Eco-Logic Award for water conservation and is now recognised as the most eco-friendly hotel on the continent.

Part of the BON Hotels group, the 150-room, three-star hotel near Cape Town International Airport employs a grey water recycling plant as well as photovoltaic panels, wind turbines, geothermal pumps and gym equipment and lifts that generate electricity. It also features an outdoor eco-trail through the surrounding wetlands. www.hotelverde.com Festive Giving This festive season, save time and money while helping the planet by shopping online at faithful-to-nature.co.za. As well as offering a huge selection of products to suit all pockets (from gadgets, foodie treats and linen to beauty, fashion and baby products), it features a ‘green gift ideas’ component to help you choose the ideal pressie for him, her, teen or tot … and there’s an under-R35 stocking-filler category, too. We love their Grow a Tree Starter Pack: it’s based on the idea of growing an indigenous tree from a seed and eventually planting it in a community area, so it’s perfect even for urban apartment-dwellers. The packs contain seeds, soil and a poem about the specific tree and you can select your tree according to where it grows best (for example, Fever Trees thrive in just KwaZulu Natal, Mpumulanga and Limpopo, while Wild Olives do well all over South Africa).

In each starter pack you will find seeds and soil packed in a pretty hessian bag, each with it’s own personalised poem. www.faithful-to-nature.co.za

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From flotsam to furniture Self-described “beach bum” and landscaper Dylan Gill of Globaldrift creates interesting furniture pieces constructed almost entirely from driftwood and washed-up materials found along the shores around Cape Agulhas. His rustic and rugged range includes tables and benches, cabinets and shelves, lighting and picture frames – all one-off items with their own unique, weathered history. What could be more charming than a set of benches and a side-table made from the relic of an 1800’s shipwreck? http://globaldrift.blogspot.com for more.

Light up the night Just in time for the festive season: Solar Fairy Lights that you can place or drape on trees, pergolas, decking balustrades or any other outdoor space you can think of. With a charge-time of five hours, each 5-mlong strand has 50 LEDs in a totally solar-powered unit, casting a soft blue-white twinkling light for around eight hours. www.greengoods.co.za

Wonder walls Distributed by Panda Bamboo and winner of the Best ‘Green’ Stand/Product award at 2013’s Decorex, Cocomosaic wall cladding tiles are made from coconut shells and only water-based, low emission glues and paints are used in their manufacture. There’s a range of colours, textures and finishes from which to choose and they can also be used on ceilings, furniture and floors.

Panda Bamboo: Telephone: Cape Town / Gauteng: +27 (0)861 114 971 www.cocomosaic.co.za

About time For every Bamboo Revolution watch sold, R10 is donated to Project Rhino... and that’s just the start of the brand’s commitment to social responsibility and sustainability. These super-trendy time-piece’s faces are made out of bamboo (so they’re water- and warp-resistant as well as environmentally friendly) and local producers manufacture their leather straps. www.bamboorevolutionsa.com

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Guide know it

W

to consumer labels

by Melissa Baird

ould you like to know your UTZ from your SASSI and your MSC from your FairTrade? Well read on to find out why these and other eco-certifications are going a long way to shifting consumer choice towards products that use resources that can be renewed, and encourage better farming methods for both the land and the people who work it. Over the next few issues we will look into the labels that are truly making a difference in shopping habits and are there to guide the “conscious consumer”.

FairTrade

Did you know? Second to water tea is the most popular drink in the world with approximately 15 000 cups being drunk per second!

Fairtrade is an ethical certification and any product that carries the Fairtrade Certification Mark has met the rigorous Fairtrade Standards. These are to focus on improving labour and living conditions for farming communities and on promoting a way of farming that doesn’t harm either people or the environment.

Dating back to the 1960s, Fairtrade started with small initiatives by mostly faith-based organisations and social entrepreneurs, who wanted to make a difference in developing countries by buying their products in an ethical manner.

This included paying fairer prices and establishing direct trading partnerships with producers, thereby sharing knowledge and information on production, market and quality requirements.

Today Fairtrade is the world’s most trusted certification system. There are thousands of Fairtrade certified companies in the world (producers, manufacturers and traders) that make a difference every day through Fairtrade trading.

A full list of the products that include coffee, tea, cotton, chocolate and wine please visit their website. www.fairtradelabel.org.za South Africa was the first emerging market to actively promote Fairtrade products. Since launching the first products in 2010, Fairtrade sales have been tripling every year.

MSC Marine Stewardship Council – Certified sustainable sea food This Global non-profit organisation established in 1997 has one mission and that is to transform the fishing industry out of the current slash-and-burn mentality to one that enables fish stocks to thrive and still offer seafood as a viable source of protein. The great big sea is a place not many are connected to unless they live a coastal life, so the idea that the fish are ‘running out’ may not be top of mind.

However the science behind fish stock collapse and the high sea piracy involving illegal fishing off coastlines that do not have military might, are ensuring certain fish stocks (think Blue Fin Tuna) are on the brink of extinction. The fishing industry supports two billion people and we have seen the economic fall out of an industry collapse here in South Africa on the West Coast of the Cape. This is why the MSC certification is going to grow in relevance and be a driver toward better fishing practises. This rigorous environmental standard provides a mechanism to recognise and reward good practice of those fisheries who adopt saner fishing techniques.

“Key fish stocks are being destroyed... the MSC offers a unique and inspiring contribution to solving this global threat” .

Sir David Attenborough

• I nternationally recognised as the fisheries ecolabel that is most consistent with best practice. There are over 21000 products certified in 104 countries and you can find 59 of them in South Africa, the website has a list of them: http://www.msc.org/where-to-buy/product-finder/product_search?country=ZA

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June15 Brand Movement 091304

transforming tomorrow

Arcelormittal South Africa Delfos Boulevard, Vanderbijlpark PO Box 2 Vanderbijlpark, 1900, South Africa www.chromadek.com

Time of Production Zinc Coating

Product Width

Product Thickness

Brand Name

Whatever the size of your project, its success and sustainability both depend on the quality of the steel products you use. But how will you know that the steel products you use are of an appropriate quality?

To assure you of quality, sustainability and leadership we at ArcelorMittal South Africa mark and brand our products. Some of these products are Chromadek Ž, plate, galvanised coil and rebar. Beware of unbranded substandard material which cost you much more in the long-run than you initially believe. Rest assured in the knowledge that ArcelorMittal South Africa’s products consistently stand for quality.

Coil No. Date of Production

What to look out for when you are looking for quality in steel

housing

GAP

By Robyn Brown

T

he affordable housing market has a big role to play in urbanisation, social upliftment and the economy.

In a report by KPMG on “The Role of Cities in Africa’s Rise” by 2030 50% of Africa’s population will live in cities and this will increase to 60% by 2050.

The South African Constitution enshrines the right to access adequate housing. The housing shortage is probably one of South Africa’s most crucial challenges, after poverty and employment.

There are several social housing initiatives by the South African government, NGO’s and property developers to create sustainable human settlements and meet the growing demand for affordable and adequate housing as Africa’s middle class mushrooms.

Gap Housing is a term used for the sector of the population who do not qualify for a free basic housing subsidy as they earn above the threshold but do not

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qualify for a home loan as they do not earn enough. As a result this sector is increasingly turning towards the rental market, and this in turn is prompting developers to provide rental housing developments at rentals below R 5000 a month.

During the past two years gap housing has been given increased prominence by the government. Various programmes and subsidies have been established and many related issues are included in the National Development Plan.

A recent study investigating the provision of affordable housing in the so-called gap market shows that it not only brings with it improved welfare and social cohesion, but is also an important facilitator of opportunities and wealth creation.

In another study by International Housing Solutions (IHS), a global private equity investor has pioneered the financing of numerous affordable housing projects in South Africa with a total value of almost R8 billion to date. The construction of houses in the affordable housing developments of IHS created over 51 000 direct and indirect jobs.

There is a government subsidised rental accommodation solution for people who earn between R 1,500 and R 7,500 a month.

Monthly rentals in the social housing market range between R875 and R 1,750. This rent

subsidy scheme allows potential buyers the opportunity to save towards purchasing their own home.

Another programme is the Finance Linked Individual Subsidy Programme (FLISP). Government has tasked the National Housing Finance Corporation (NHFC) as the implementing agent of FLISP. This programme facilitates the increased supply of affordable housing finance. It is a finance linked subsidy and varies from R10 000 to R 87 000 for the purposes of acquiring property valued at R 3 000 000 or less. It is available to first time home buyers who are over the age of 18 and are South African citizens.

Government finances about 60 % of all social housing projects, with the balance funded through private sector loans. There is huge scope for the private sector to invest in social housing and in fact this is crucial in order for the supply to meet demand.

The Social Housing Regulatory Authority is currently exploring a social housing debt fund that would co-fund social housing projects with government in order to increase private sector involvement, which is crucial for further development.

According to Absa’s March 2013 House Price Index report, small houses (80-140 square metres) have the highest price appreciation at 17.5% nominal growth annually. This “affordable” sector of the housing market is stable, active and growing which in a stagnant economy is more vital than ever.

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debate

Fracking

What it means for South Africa

By Lia Labuschagne

A

fter months of consultation, the Technical Regulations on Petroleum Exploration and Exploitation that open the path to hydraulic fracturing or fracking in South Africa were approved by Cabinet on 9 October and gazetted on 15 October 2013. The Minister of Mineral Resources, Susan Shabangu, said the regulations were based on global best practice in international shale gas production and applicable to both onshore and offshore activities. The public can still contribute to the process by submitting inputs and comments on the draft

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regulations before the closing date of 14 November 2013.

Shabangu explained that the regulations were the result of a comprehensive international benchmarking exercise by six government departments (including among others Water, Environmental Affairs, and Science and Technology), and were aimed to ensure that hydraulic fracture did not impact fresh water resources, biodiversity and palaeontology and provided buffer zones to shield specific sites like the Square Kilometre Array project.

The regulations include among others a requirement that fracture fluids to be used

in the hydraulic fracturing process had to be fully disclosed and that areas around closed wells had to be fully rehabilitated.

Importantly for environmental concerns, the regulations require that “wherever exploration or production activities are being planned that could have an impact on natural resources or sensitive areas, appropriate studies must be undertaken to assess the potential impacts of such activities on the environment over the full life cycle of the operations.�

The regulations cover issues such as water resource assessment, assessment of conditions below ground, and related

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debate seismicity, site preparation and containment, protection of optic and radio astronomy, well design and casing, drilling fluids, site operation and management, waste management and well closure.

According to the Minister, the decision of the Cabinet to open the way for shale gas production was based on government’s responsibility to ensure energy security and shale gas provided the country with a potential opportunity to reindustrialise the South African economy.

But does this end the debate and will fracking become an industrial and commercial reality in South Africa?

Intense debate The debate about hydraulic fracturing is a complex one and there is no absolute certainty whether this technology will, indeed, come to South Africa. High financial stakes for the oil and gas companies and potential benefits for the national economy from large natural gas reserves are matched by high emotion relating to environmental and health issues. Despite reassurances by government and the companies who want to use the technique, there remains intense disagreement about the potential of fracking to stimulate economic activity in the Karoo and provide plentiful and long-term, sustainable job opportunities.

Concerns range from issues around geology and potential seismic activity, to protecting the fragile natural environment and public health where most of the currently targeted areas are situated.

Why is fracking even being considered?

The actual reserves of natural gas in South Africa is not known, but a study of 32 countries by the US Energy Information

Administration (EIA) has been widely quoted as estimating that the country has the 5th largest reserves of potentially recoverable shale gas, estimated at 485 trillion cubic feet (approximately 14 trillion cubic metres).

Exploring such reserves could brin big money and make a sizeable contribution to economic development. Many argue that exploration should go ahead at least to confirm the size of the reserves. Proponents also point out that billions of rands of potential income may be at stake, combined with job creation potential and the general economic injection of such a process starting up in South Africa. They add that it is a technology that can be done safely if the right safeguards are in place.

Their opposition disagree. Their concerns include, amongst others, about the potential effects of fracking activity on the ecology, existing tourist and agricultural industries, and also the existing infrastructure (mainly to existing roads by the large transport trucks). Ecological concerns relate to leakage of toxic fracking fluids into ground water through potentially compromised concrete casings, as well as the effects of large-scale industrial activity on the fragile and unique Karoo ecosystems, geology and air quality. The Karoo has more than 6 000 plant species is notable for its succulents and geophytes, of which many are endemic, while its fauna is also rich in diversity. People and animals are at risk if groundwater resources are threatened by toxic chemicals from fracking fluids.

Electromagnetic interference and potential noise are other issues, relevant especially in populated areas: even though the Karoo is sparsely populated, some of the other

what the frack?

1 Well: 20 Million litres of water.

2500 trucks.

32 wells on a pad.

10 pads in a development.

Many developments in SA. 52% of the Karoo.

More than 20% of SA. France has banned it.

Many US cities don’t want it.

Is Fracking the answer for SA? Source TKAG www.treasurethekaroo.co.za

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areas where fracking might be undertaken in South Africa are more densely settled.

Critics are expressing concerns about health issues, potentially increased light pollution and potential radio interference brought along by increased industrial activity. Economic issues also extend to questions about the long-term viability of the processes and size of the actual reserves, the actual number of sustainable jobs potentially being created, the real long-term benefits accruing to affected communities, the cost of maintaining relevant infrastructure and property values.

Some have pointed out that the process could also be in conflict with other major projects supported by government, such as optical astronomy (SALT in Sutherland) and radio astronomy, specifically the Square Kilometer Array (SKA - the huge international radio telescope project which will be built in the northern Karoo and further afield, with the area around Carnarvon as the central hub). In this regard, South Africa protects its advantages as an increasingly important base for astronomy through its far-sighted and Astronomy Geographic Advantage Act, 2007 (Act No.21 of 2007).

The published technical regulations have also made provision to protect such areas.

Key to the debate is the fact that the National Planning Commission recommended fracking as one of its energy proposals in the National Development Plan (NDP, announced 2011). It referred to the fast tracking of the development of shale gas and recommended “exploratory drilling to identify economically recoverable coal seam and shale gas reserves, while environmental investigations will continue to ascertain whether sustainable exploitation of these resources is possible.” The NDP does add the provision that this should be done under the provision that “environmental concerns are alleviated.”

Task team report The moratorium on fracking announced in April 2011 by Minister Shabangu, to allow government to study the implications of fracking, was lifted in September 2012 following the recommendations of the task team report. The working group was chaired by Nosizwe Nokwe-Macamo, CEO of Petroleum Agency SA and included representatives from the departments of Environmental Affairs and Water Affairs, Science and Technology, Energy and Mineral Resources, as well as the Petroleum Agency of South Africa, the Council for

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debate

What is fracking?

Hydraulic fracturing, also called hydrofracturing or fracking, has been used since the late 1940s in the USA (it was used experimentally in 1947, by the Stanolind Oil and Gas Corporation in the Hugoton field in Kansas.and in 1949 the Haliburton Oil Well Cementing Company received a patent for the “hydrafrac” process which they first used that year on wells in Texas and Oklahoma).

Fracking as a means for the economic exploration of natural gas is common in many countries today. A study by Carl Montgomery and Michael Smith estimated in 2010 that 60% of all new oil and gas wells worldwide were being hydraulically fractured.

It is a method to extract natural hydrocarbons such as shale gas, petroleum and coal seam gas from deep within the earth. It accesses reservoir rock formations through wells drilled first vertically to depths that could reach down as far as to 6 000 m, and then horizontally into the rock. The wells are cased with cement after which large amounts of fluids (water mixed with sand a cocktail of chemicals) are pumped and injected with high pressure explosive force into existing small natural fractures or fissures in the rock layers to break up the rock and release the hydrocarbons. The gases are then collected through the wells.

Where would fracking happen in SA? References to fracking in South Africa relate to the potential reserves in large parts mainly of the Karoo basin (stretching over parts of the Eastern Cape, Northern Cape and Western Cape), but it also extends into the Free State and KwaZulu-Natal. Government has thus far granted permits to four companies to explore shale gas: Royal Dutch Shell (who have applied for the largest area – 90 000 km2), Falcon Oil & Gas (US), and Sunset Energy/Bundu (Australia) as well as a consortium made up of Sasol, American Chesapeake Energy and Statoil.

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debate

Geoscience, SKA South Africa, the Water Research Commission, and Eskom.

The study evaluated the potential environmental risks posed by the process of hydraulic fracturing, as well as the negative and positive social and economic impacts of shale gas exploitation. Their recommendations included allowing normal exploration (excluding the actual hydraulic fracturing), such as geological field mapping and other data gathering activities (e.g. hydrological studies) to proceed under the existing regulatory framework; constituting a monitoring committee to ensure comprehensive and co-ordinated augmentation of the regulatory framework and supervision of operations, and augmenting the current regulatory framework.

The report then recommended that “once all the preceding actions have been completed, authorise hydraulic fracturing under strict supervision of the monitoring committee. In the event of any unacceptable outcomes, the process may be halted.”

It also called for ongoing research to be conducted and facilitated by relevant institutions to develop and enhance scientific knowledge in respect of the development of Karoo shale gas.

The Department of Energy (DoE) has been reviewing the Gas Act in an attempt to close gaps in the framework and deal with compliance issues. It also aimed to widen the role the National Energy Regulator of South Africa would play in monitoring and enforcing compliance.

The debate continues The intense debate with strong arguments and opinions from both sides continues unabated and the window of opportunity to comment on the recently-published regulations remains open.

Opponents come from potential affected areas and a range of civil and environmental groups and communities, who have drawn up various petitions to

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government, and continue to communicate via the mass media, websites and road shows to the communities that could be most affected by fracking.

Prominent among those opposing fracking is the Treasure Karoo Action Group (TKAG), staffed mainly by volunteers and headed by Jonathan Deal, who earlier this year was awarded a Goldman Environmental Prize for his successful grassroots effort to win a moratorium on fracking. He has pleaded for a global alliance against fracking. During a recent five-week tour in the USA, he visited many communities across the country that have experienced shale gas drilling and met with many politicians, scientists, legal professionals, industry consultants. He said that he could “find no good reason to support this controversial technology and its reliance on an unsustainable resource … fracking carries with it significant environmental risk, far-reaching secondary costs to tax payers, and locks economies - both developing and developed - into a further dependence on fossil fuels.” TKAG and other opponents question the efficacy of the environmental management plans of the relevant oil and gas companies and are prepared to take their case to court.

Many questions still need answering. This includes clear answers to the

question of what the alternatives to fracking would be: those opposing fracking say that fracking delays the emergence of renewable technologies, and that the world will, in any event, have to rely on renewable energy at some point in the future when existing natural gas resources are depleted.

Other questions relate to how oil companies would be locked into agreements that ensure they are made accountable for environmental damage and deterioration of infrastructure. The gazetted technical regulations will be studied closely in this regard by all interested parties.

Hydraulic fracturing holds promises for a rapid and large injection into the national economy. But at what cost, and will the effects be truly manageable and legally enforceable? Many feel that international examples where environmental damage and leakage of toxins into ground water made it into the courts, have shown that it will be hard to avoid major environmental and health damages - and once the damage is done, it is done. It would be hard, if not impossible, to turn back to a relatively pristine Karoo with its tourist and ecological importance.

The jury is clearly still on whether fracking is or could be a blessing or a curse for South Africa.

Have your say Public inputs and comments on the draft regulations may be submitted before the closing date of 14 November 2013.

• The regulations are available for download from the Department at http://tinyurl.com/okf3rpz or the site of the Government Printing Works at http://www.gpwonline.co.za • A summary of the report of the Task Team on Shale Gas is available at http://www. info.gov.za/view/DownloadFileAction?id=174015 Follow the consistent opposition to the proposed fracking plans at http://www.treasurethekaroo.co.za/

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destinations

H ighveld

Hideout T here’s really no need for Joburgers to drive an age to escape the city – on a rocky outcrop just 20 minutes outside the CBD lies an environmentally-respectful refuge waiting to envelope guests in serenity.

There are so many aspects that make Thaba Ya Batswana a unique and deservedly reputable eco hotel. Foremost is its location. One minute you’re navigating a busy double lane thoroughfare through the rocky house-hugging terrain of Joburg’s southern suburbs and the next you’re winding your way up the very same hills the vistas from

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which are now of virtually unimpeded acacia-clad grassland.

Some 600 years ago the pastoral SothoTswana people settled on these Highveld ridges attracted by the agreeable warm and wet climate. The hotel occupies a brow of the Klipriviersberg Nature Estate where the remains of a kraal settlement still exist and in a bid to celebrate this remarkable cultural heritage, its arrangement sensitively skirts the ancient stone remnants via meandering pathways and trails.

What’s impressive is that rather than function as an isolated environmentally aware body the hotel, which includes a conference centre and spa, has embraced an

By Natalie Boruvka

all-encompassing vision of conservation for the area in the form of an initiative called the Kliprivier Urban Biodiversity Corridor (KUBiC) which aims to establish the first major green corridor in Gauteng within the next ten years. An admirable objective considering that currently less than 1% of Gauteng’s land surface is protected.

To fully appreciate the pervasive tranquillity, you really need to spend the night, better yet a weekend, in one of the two types of suites available. The appropriately-named dome-capped Kraal Kamers offers glorious views over the conservancy and features every kind of luxury expected from an establishment that was

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destinations in the need for overnight accommodation.

Encouraging visitors and guests to appreciate the reserve’s rich biodiversity remains however, the core of the hotel’s philosophy.

There are informative guided walks available including an edible and medicinal plant trail and for those wishing to expend a little more energy whilst catching site of zebra, blesbok, impala, wildebeest and springbok, the reserve’s 450 hectares can be traversed on mountain bike.

The Kraal Kamers comprise 4 Executive and 12 Luxury suites

The newer Bushveld Suites make the most of the reserve’s scenery from expansive windows and private balconies

Thaba Ya Batswana Eco Hotel and Spa is surrounded by Johannesburg’s Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve

recognised as Gauteng’s best 4-star hotel at this year’s Lilizela Tourism Awards. Of a more contemporary nature and presenting expansive views through floor to ceiling windows from their elevated position are the Bushveld Suites. Completed in 2010 just in time to host the visiting Mexican football team, the aesthetic of the charcoal-coloured, softly-rounded structures was aimed at reducing the visual impact on the environment. Only 50% of the base of each unit touches the ground to protect the existing indigenous fauna. During the building process those plants which were threatened were carefully removed and relocated. Innovative green features include

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carpet underlays made from recycled plastic, energy-saving CFC-free airconditioners and an intelligent building management solution that automatically turns off the electricity when departing from a room.

As far as possible the hotel employs a sustainable approach. Rainwater is harvested, 97% of all paper, cans, glass and plastic used are recycled on site and a further plant processes 95% of all wet waste produced- which in turn provides compost for the restaurant’s organic vegetable garden. Thaba Ya Batswana was in fact born from the restaurant. After continual requests by day visitors the facility started to host weddings and this inevitably resulted

The on-site Sinzinani Spa offers a variety of boutique pampering treatments Thaba Ya Batswana Eco Hotel & Spa Impala Road, Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve, Kibler Park, Johannesburg 011 959 0777 info@tyb.co.za www.tyb.co.za

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shelf talk

Books December 2013

by Lia Labuschagne

Holiday reading Here are some books to help you prepare for summer holidays in various parts of our lovely subcontinent and some of the nearby islands. These cover among others the birds of exotic Indian Ocean islands, the picturesque expanses of the Kalahari, the estates of the Cape Winelands, and the wildlife of East Africa. There is also an account of the deadly business of killing rhinos for profit and two books with green themes that are written for younger readers to enjoy during the holidays.

Picturesque Kalahari Kalahari Summer is a coffee table book devoted to the picturesque semi-desert part of Southern Africa that stretches over large parts of Botswana, as well as large areas of Namibia and South Africa. The photographs and paintings in this book are by Robert Grogan, who divides his time between Sun Valley, Idaho (USA) and Franschhoek and who has been travelling regularly to the Kalahari with his wife Lee since 1974. The pictures and text capture the beauty of the landscapes, animals, insects and plants of the area and show why the Kalahari inspires visitors to return to it time and again.

This would be a very good gift idea for people who love nature, art or photography – or all three.

ISBN 978-1-92057-292-1, Struik Nature

For wine lovers One of the foremost things that people associate with the Western Cape is its rich heritage as a winemaking region. Wineries of the Cape is an excellent guide for visitors to the many and diverse winemaking establishments. It looks at the historic estates with their iconic gabled manor houses, but also at contemporary wineries and small family-run farms. Also included is information about the dining experiences attached to the wine farms – from fine dining to picnic areas.

Author Lindsaye McGregor is a well-known wine writer and has contributed to 14 editions of Platter’s South African Wine Guide. The photographs by Erica Moodie illustrate exactly why a visit to the Cape winelands is always such a pleasure.

ISBN 978-1-92028-970-6, Sunbird Publishers

Beautiful island birds Include Birds of the Indian Ocean Islands in your luggage together with your camera and binoculars if you are planning to visit one or more of the nearby Indian Ocean islands (Madagascar, the Seychelles, the Comoros and the Mascarenes (Mauritius, Réunion and Rodrigues). These islands are rich in splendid endemic species that bird watching South Africans would not immediately recognise, and therefore this guide will enhance your visit to those places. The well-known bird expert and writer Ian Sinclair and his co-author Olivier Langrand have included a total of 502 resident and migrant species. There are clear illustrations, distribution maps, names in both English and French in addition to the scientific names, and beautiful illustrations. Sinclair has written more than 20 bird books, and French-born Lagrand works with Island Conservation, an organisation that works to prevent extinction of species on islands.

ISBN 978-1-43170-085-1, Struik Nature

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shelf talk Exposing the Rhino horn trade The rhino has survived on Earth for more than 50 million years. Yet man has fast driven these animals to endangered species status. The black rhino especially is critically endangered while the white rhino’s status is ‘near threatened’. Killing for profit tells the story behind the stories about the Rhino horn trade – a trade that thrives on the fact that rhino horn is worth more than gold, heroin or cocaine in some areas of Southeast Asia. Greed and corruption soon follow…

This will not be one of your ‘easier’ holiday reads, but it nevertheless a gripping tale – because this is the real-life story about the criminal underworld and syndicates that confront those who battle to save the rhino from extinction. Author Julian Rademeyer is an award-winning investigative journalist with twenty years’ experience at major South African newspapers. He has reported from many strife-torn areas of the world and has painstakingly investigated the bloody trail of the front line where rhinos are killed by organised poaching in Africa to those areas in Southeast where the rhino horn trade is controlled by crime bosses.

If you want to be informed participants, in discussions about how to protect our endangered species that are poached and hunted for their body parts, then reading this book could be a good start.

ISBN 978-1-77022-334-9, Zebra Press

Wildlife of East Africa Are you are heading for the wildlife-rich places of the East African region known for its safaris and wildlife conservation programmes - Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Burundi or Rwanda? Then packing Wildlife of East Africa is a must. Included in one handy volume is a guide to the species of fauna and flora you are most likely to encounter. It includes information about the conservation status of each species and also advises about the best places to view them. The descriptions are clear and each species is identified by its English and scientific names, and also by its best-known indigenous common name. The colour photographs, maps of national parks and descriptions of the different habitats will help in identification. Written by wildlife enthusiast Dave Richards, who contributes regularly to many magazines and books and whose selection of species has been guided by his own experience as camp and lodge manager and safari guide. Whether you are travelling in an organised group or on your own, keep a copy of this book close and it will contribute to your enjoyment of the richness of the wildlife in West Africa. It will also help you identify the species on your own photographs after your visit.

ISBN 978-1-77007-891-8, Struik Nature

For the younger ones Space Station Venetia This space adventure by Pamela Nicholson is aimed at readers of high school-going ages. The action centres on Clementella, whose father Ken works on Space Station Venetia and who is studying new methods of farming to save planet Earth. The villains are people who want to steal his research.

Clementella also meets a mysterious boy (or girl) who appears around Venetia.

The main theme of this story is global warming, and whether we – and especially young people - can do something about it. A quick, 90-page easy read for the holidays – but one with a strong message nevertheless. For teachers who are thinking of including this in recommended reading lists, there are useful tools such as a glossary, synopsis, questions and answers at the end of the book.

ISBN 978-0-521-13771-3, Cambridge University Press

One bird and its friend the bee A Scarlet Tail is a happy, bright tale aimed at very young children. It tells about the handsome African Grey Parrot with his big name, Nebuchadnezzar the Third, who befriends Belinda the Bee. Watched by owls, they play and practice their flying tricks. Take it along on holiday to read out loud to the young ones and get them interested in the birds and bees of the innocent kind. Written in verse by Susan Lang, it is illustrated with lovely drawings by Claire Norden and it also includes some stickers to customise your copy. Also a good gift idea: send a copy to your overseas friends’ children for their enjoyment of this original African tale.

ISBN 978-1-92057-276-1, Struik Nature

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GREY FLOW

GREY WATER REUSE SYSTEMS

Setting New Standards For Grey Water Recycling Systems As South Africa becomes more environmentally aware, there has been an increase in ‘green’ technologies and grey water recycling is no exception. However in the past, grey water has often been associated with foul odours and the inconvenience of having to move a sprinkler around the garden every time you want to water a different area. The affordable, award winning G-Flow Grey Water systems have set a new standard for grey water recycling by automatically (and safely) irrigating up to 6 different watering zones in your garden via a state of the art drip line and rotor irrigation controller.

The G- Flow Advantage:

The manufacturer of the G-Flow system has spent the last 8 years developing an affordable, easy to install, safe, clean, low maintenance (every 3 - 6 months), robust and reliable grey water drip line irrigation system that meets the most stringent environmental health and safety requirements.

The G-Flow system’s drip line and rotor (irrigation controller) have both been specifically designed for grey water use. The drip line is self cleaning and has a turbulent flow path.

The vortex, thermally protected pump and side mounted float switch have been specifically designed for grey water use. Ensuring years of trouble and clog free watering.

The G-Flow systems are fail safe with an automatic diversion to the sewer during power outages. They are supplied with a 3 way manual valve for gravity diversion to the sewer when the system is not in use.

The systems have an innovative self drain and auto de-sludge mechanism.

Never move a sprinkler around the garden again!

The Grey Flow systems have won various awards overseas as well as locally. They have recently been awarded a ‘commendation’ at the recent Eco Logic awards (hosted by SABC3 and the Enviropedia) as well as ‘The Most Innovative Product’ at The Green Expo in Sandton.

The systems have Smart WaterMark certification and are WaterWise approved. Systems you can buy and install with confidence.

RAIN WATER SUPERHEAD TANK FILTER

Ten year warranty

Prevent Dirt, Dust, Leaves, Insects & Bird Droppings From Flowing Into Your Rainwater Tanks Every Time It Rains!

Over time your roof and gutters can collect a host of unwanted pollutants as mentioned above. These unwanted pollutants are washed directly into your rainwater tanks when it first starts to rain. You can prevent this by installing a Superhead Rain Water Tank Filter, which automatically filters and disperses the ‘first flush’ of dirty water. (Easy to install - low maintenance) The Superhead combines a stainless steel leaf catcher, first flush diverter (rotates 360° to suit all types of tank installations) and insect screen all into one unit without the use of any mechanical parts. You will never loose precious water down the drain due to a mechanical failure.

The Superhead is supplied with the 80mm and 110mm adaptors ensuring a perfect fit.

For further information on the G-Flow, Superhead and our other water saving products, please visit our website’s:

www.watercon.co.za or www.greyflowsystems.co.za Tel: 044 3824887 Cell: 082 448 2120 Email: marc@watercon.co.za

game changers

Ripples for Good – inspired social renovation Changing the world, one school at a time

T

aking the road less travelled has turned Maria Botha’s world into a day-to-day action packed adventure , where she and her two faithful Jack Russel’s ( Dante and Katryn) traverse the country renovating schools in need and educating and inspiring young learners to connect with their environment and feel better about the world they find themselves in.

The first time I met Maria Botha it was around a board room table as various ideas people were working on a water campaign that would be a major social initiative for South Africa raising awareness about the value of water and educating people about water pollution and how to preserve water sources by

36 schools in 6 months and has a further 70 on her list for 2014. Next stop the rest of Africa.

How it works Builder’s Warehouse and the Ripples for Good team led by (Maria Botha) share a common goal and vision: to make a difference in people’s lives, not because they have to but because they want to.

How do they do This? By renovating and fixing infrastructure in the schools selected to participate. Staff volunteers nominate schools and a wish list is drawn up. Then on the day Maria and the staff head out to the school and, in one day, fix toilets and water leaks, change light bulbs, clean up and build pathways, paint and repair buildings and classrooms. All the while offering

“When I look at our children I have a lot of mixed feelings, some angry some desperate but most of all determination to inspire and bring about change. There is an old proverb that says we didn’t inherit this earth from our ancestors we borrow it from our children. But see, somewhere we took it and it’s now up to us to ensure that we do good by returning it in a better state that when we took it.” not polluting them with raw sewerage or phosphates from cleaning products. Then I was amazed at her lively enthusiasm and now – almost two years later – as she sat opposite me ( around another board room table) she glowed with the vitality of a woman who is living her dream and finding meaning in every day on this planet. The Jack Russell’s have also grown and are an integral part of the work she does, charming and amusing grown ups and children alike.

Working with the staff of volunteers from Builder’s Warehouses across the country – Maria has transformed and fixed over

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sound environmental guidance and helping all participants to become more water-wise.

These vital structural renovations enable the schools to save money on monthly bills and directly improve the learning conditions of the pupils. Students also participate and remain as part of the team that fixed up their school.

It is a national programme and has had unintended benefits like staff feeling happier about their work. But what of the unquantifiable benefit of enabling a little person to feel happy and valued and see their environment transformed from one of degradation to one of possibility?

With nothing but her bag of belongings, two dogs and four wheels Maria visited 36 schools across South Africa in six months.

She has truly brought new life to these schools which were in dire need of restoration. During the next year, Maria will be visiting and renovating 70 schools in South Africa and Botswana.

Ripples For Good...

Maria Botha Tel: +27 82 926 8055 Ripples For Good PBO 93003267 http://www.ripplesforgood.com

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Tshisahulu Main Campus 1014 Punda Maria Road Tel:(015) 964 5288/(015) 964 5299 Cell: 079 127 4446

Thohoyandou Office Mashapha Complex Opposite Choice Supermarket Office No. BO5 Tel: (015) 962 0620

Web site address: www.thasululocollege.la, Email: register@thasululocollege.la Admin1@thasululocollege.la Admin2@thasululocollege.la Fax: 0865529902 or 0865529951

REGISTRATION AND ACCREDITATION Department of Higher Education & Training Registration Reg. No. 2009/FE07/084 www.dhet.gov.za Tel:(012) 312 5878/5308 Examination Centre No. 799990735

UMALUSI Accreditation: No.FET 00621 PA www.umalusi.org.za Tel. (012) 349 1510

Mict-Seta Accreditation No. LPA/00/2009/09/271

ICDL Registration Number: 51112 Matric Rewrite Examination Centre No.: B7361702

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1.

DEFINITION

2.2.4.

1.1.The College – means THASULLULO FET College

2.2.4.1.

Vision •

High School Matric Re-write

NCS AND Report 550 (old Syllabus)

To empower and Grow people by providing Essential Vocational Knowledge and skills

Mission •

As Vocational Institution, Thasullulo FET College offers a range of vocational programmes that are responsive to the development needs of the South African Region, Using both combination of theory and practical.

Values

• • • • • •

Add Value to qualifications offered Commitment and Dedication Integrity Professionalism Team Work Accessible and understanding our Clients (Students)

2. PROGRAMS OFFERED 2.1.

National Certificate Vocational (NCV)

2.1.1. Management (Level 2, 3 & 4) 2.1.2. Marketing (Level 2, 3 & 4) 2.1.3. IT & Computer Science (Level 2, 3 & 4) 2.1.4. Finance, Economic & Accounting (Level 2, 3 & 4) 2.1.5. Office Administration (Level 2, 3 & 4) 2.1.6. Electrical Infrastructure & Construction (Level 2, 3 & 4) 2.1.7. Tourism (Level 2, 3 & 4)

2.2. Nated Programs 2.2.1. Faculty of Engineering Studies 2.2.1.1. Mechanical Engineering (N2, N3, N4, N5 &N6) 2.2.1.2. Civil Engineering (N2, N3, N4, N5 & N6) 2.2.1.3. Electrical Engineering (N2, N3, N4, N5 &N6) 2.2.2. Faculty of Business Studies 2.2.2.1. Business Management (N4, N5 & N6) 2.2.2.2. Financial Management (N4, N5 & N6) 2.2.2.3. Hospitality and Catering (N4, N5 & N6) 2.2.2.4. Human Resource Management (N4, N5 & N6) 2.2.3. Faculty of Information Technology & Computer Sciences 2.2.3.1. End user Computing (Level 3) 2.2.3.2. Technical Support (Level 4) 2.2.3.3. Systems Support (Level 5) 2.2.3.4. ICDL E-Learner (Level 2) 2.2.3.5. ICDL Core (Level 4)

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REPORT 550 SUBJECTS Biology HG/SG Physical Science HG/SG

NCS (MATRIC REWRITE) Life Sciences Physical Sciences

Mathematics HG/SG Geography HG/SG Agricultural Science SG History HG/SG Biblical Studies HG/SG Economics HG/SG Accounting HG/SG Business Economics HG/SG English Second Language HG Tshivenda First Language HG Xitsonga First Language HG Sepedi First Language HG

Mathematics Mathematical Literacy Geography Agricultural Sciences Tourism History Economics Accounting Business Studies English First Additional language

youth

Future Leaders Marcus Matsi brings you the up to date news that is shifting the opportunities for the youth of South Africa. To keep up to date with all the news follow www.youtheconomy.co.za

Entrepreneurship Growing in Cape Town According to research done by entrepreneurmag.co.za in 2012, Cape Town is the leading entrepreneurial city in South Africa.

Since then, more and more Cape Town based startups have come to the market, creating jobs, leading innovation and providing unique business solutions to the everyday challenges faced by Capetonians.

One such startup that hopes to contribute to this market of innovation is an organisation called Akro, initiated by a group of nine young entrepreneurs all running fully operational businesses while studying at the University of Cape Town. The three-month old organisation aims to bring together talented young entrepreneurs from around Cape Town to engage with each other as well as existing South African business leaders, CEO’s and established entrepreneurs.

South Africa’s Green Economy Strategy South Africa’s transition to a green economy is set to create approximately 300 000 jobs in the renewable energy sector over the next 10 years, 20 000 of which are achievable in the next two years.

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Why Your Career Should Go Green If you are passionate about the environment, there are plenty of ways that you can find employment.

With environmental awareness expanding across the globe and the growing number of opportunities for inventors and trail blazers this is no longer an exclusive field.

Even without specialised degrees or training, you can make use of your own skills and apply them to this new sector. I know I don’t have to define ‘green’ for you, as ‘green’ is the fifth largest market sector in the United States. But, technically, green jobs are any that give you the opportunity to contribute to preserving or enhancing environmental development. No matter how long ago or how recently you developed your passion for environmental issues, and no matter how daunting you imagine a job change to be in this market, it pays to have a look at some of the off the beaten track jobs out there for budding environmentalists.

Check out the website for our article on the Anatomy Of A Green Entrepreneur http://youtheconomy.co.za/anatomy-of-a-green-entrepreneur/ This is for all those who want to find out how to start their own business.

www.greenhomemagazine.co.za

youth

Generation Earth This dynamic and highly inspirational movement is doing wonders with developing understanding about climate change and environmental impacts with learners across the country. They are also Green Home’s new distribution partners. This environmental organisation works to create an environmental network created by and for the youth. Founded in 2011 by the dynamic duo Ella Bella and Catherine Constantinides, their vision was to cultivate leaders who are eco-conscious and aware of how their consumer habits and lifestyles impact on the environment. Their dedication to climate change, greening issues and the empowerment of the youth within the environmental sector has seen these young entrepreneurs creating sustainable social change.

Two young Generation Earther’s were recently honoured by the Miss Earth South Africa Women Empowerment and Leadership Programme when they were awarded the coveted Youth4Youth Green Globe Awards. Gugulethu Ncube, a grade 11 learner from Diepsloot Leap Science and Maths Academy and Johara Naidoo, a matric learner from Parktown Girls’ High School, received these awards in honour of their dedication and active participation within their communities. Both girls have been a part of the Generation Earth movement since 2011 and after attending a number of clean-up projects and educational workshops, Ncube and Naidoo took it upon themselves to plan and implement a number of similar projects in their own communities with the help of their fellow council members. Who says you are too young to make a difference? Both these young girls are shining examples of how to “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”

For more on the Generation Earth movement, visit their website www.generationearth.co.za, follow them on twitter @Gen_ Earth and Like them on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/ generationearth).

LUCKY DRAW

QUESTION: Which environmental organisation works to create a network created by and for the youth?

Win one of four battery packs valued at R250 each. Email us the answer to the above question and you could win one of the packs containing a selection of Greenergy batteries.

They contain 0% lead, cadmium and mercury and last up to 40% longer than other batteries.

Stockists: Cape Union Mart and Agrimark nationwide Web: www.greenergybatteries.co.za Email the answer to entries@alive2green.com

www.greenhomemagazine.co.za

greenhome

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listings

AVAILABLE AT: SHOPRITE, MAKRO, CAMBRIDGE, SPAR WESTERN CAPE CONTACT DETAILS: Website: www.greenheat.co.za Email: amb@greenheat.co.za.

Factory: 032 9441494 Town Office: 031 5727033

listings To find out more about the natural brilliance of bamboo visit Bamboo Warehouse.

BAMBOO WAREHOUSE GO GREEN - GO BAMBOO

Bamboo: a natural choice for green living

Home HOTELSTUFF / GREENSTUFF Online directories of suppliers focusing on eco-friendly products. Greenstuff. co.za is a directory of green, eco-friendly products and services with direct links to suppliers. Greenstuff is a division of Hotelstuff.co.za which is a directory of hospitality suppliers and includes everything you need to run a hospitality establishment, private home, conference or event. The websites are used every day by hundreds of suppliers and thousands of buyers.

We give presentations, consult and run workshops on green procurement and green manufacturing. We are also specialist consultants in building and furnishing eco and green exhibition stands and running green events.

Helpdesk Phone: 0860 272 272

Home Heating specializes in green heating solutions, including Water Underfloor Heating, Heat Pumps, Gas burners, Solar, Electrical Underfloor Heating & Insulation. Home Heating is an agent for Danfoss, the European leader in Water -& Electric Underfloor heating.

Through Home Heating’s green designs and energy efficient products, we are able to offer solutions for both space- and water heating, which has a lower running cost and a lesser impact on the environment. In addition, these products also have a longer life expectancy than many conventional systems.

R10 WILL BE DONA DONATED T FOUNDATION’ A FOR EVER

51313_NRG-Designs_flyers 25 July 2013 11:23:53 AM

I n t e r i o r

D e s i g n e r s

Cape Town: T: 021 701 0568 / 071 1153 790 F: 086 698 3353 Address: 4 Lily Road, Retreat, 7945 lori@bamboowarehouse.co.za Johannesburg: T: 076 228 4878 pierre@bamboowarehouse.co.za Kwa-Zulu Natal: T: 083 788 8031 ant@bamboowarehouse.co.za

The Paper Recycling Association of South Africa (PRASA) promotes paper recycling because it creates jobs, supports sustainability and reduces costs.

While its efforts have seen the paper recovery rate increase by almost a third over the past decade, large amounts of recoverable paper and board packaging are still unnecessarily dumped in landfill sites. PRASA trains people how to generate an income through collection and recycling and has also launched a pilot project to introduce forestry, paper and paper recycling as a subject within the Foundation and Intersenior Phase curriculum. Make paper your preference because it is reliable, renewable and recyclable.

Contact: www.prasa.co.za Ursula Henneberry 011 803 5063

Tel: 0861114169 www.homeheating.co.za

E c o - f r i e n d l y

Bamboo Warehouse is South Africa’s leading importer, supplier and installer of bamboo with offices in Gauteng, KwaZulu Natal and Cape Town (head office).

Whether you are looking for bamboo flooring for a commercial or residential property, our dedicated team of bamboo experts and experienced installers can provide an end to end solution. We also import, supply and install composite bamboo decking, a wide range of poles for pergolas and pre-wired rolled bamboo fencing, solid bamboo board for kitchens and furniture and we also produce our own custom-made bamboo furniture.

When it comes to quality, experience, expertise and innovation, Bamboo Warehouse is the only choice for all your bamboo needs.

Mpact

transport evolution

Bridgestone unveils Ecopia EP200 On a recent media visit to the proving ground in Bangkok, ten motoring journalists and Green Home (the greenie amongst the petrol heads) put these tyres to the test in order to prove improved fuel efficiency as a result of better tyre design. The new technology behind the better performance is Bridgestone’s proprietary Nano ProTech technology that increases the density of silica molecules in the tyre’s compound. Nano ProTech reduces heat generation and energy losses while driving and gives lower rolling resistance.

How you ascertain rolling resistance is to drive past a certain point at 50 km per hour and then put the car into neutral. You then measure the distance it takes from that point until the vehicle comes to a dead stop. The Ecopia EP200’s rolling resistance was 78 metres better than its main competitor. Ecopia showed 4.3% less fuel consumption than its non-Ecopia equivalent.

Other design features are high-stiffness shoulder tread blocks which have a square profile instead of the rounder profile of conventional tyres. This improves directional stability while reducing rolling resistance and provides greater resistance against irregular wear. The centre tread blocks are moulded in the shape of a reversed Z, providing more stable road contact.

The blocks include a high angle lug groove that enhances wet weather road holding. The reversed Z design has allowed Bridgestone’s designers to widen the three straight grooves in the tread, significantly reducing the risk of aquaplaning when driving on wet roads.

It all adds up to better fuel consumption and lower emissions without compromising on comfort, tread wear or road holding.

There is the added benefit of Bridgestone’s Tyre Damage Guarantee under which a motorist only pays for the tread that has already been used if a tyre is damaged beyond repair and must be replaced.

Freedom of the road Dahon foldable bikes are the perfect transport solution giving relief from high fuel prices and getting you out of the traffic. These bikes fold up neatly and you can carry them on to the Gautrain and the MyCiti buses or in the boot of your car when driving to your holiday destination. No more roof racks or bike racks required.

There is a Dahon folding bike for every style of cycling, from high-speed road bikes to reliable urban commuters and convenient leisure tourers.

Retailing from R 5,000.00 at selected Cycle Lab and Bicycle Specialist Shops nationwide or online www.dahonbikes.co.za

Five Tips for more efficient motoring

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Check tyre pressures frequently Reduce loads and avoid the need for roof racks Don’t warm up your engine before starting off Use air conditioning sparingly Accelerate gently and keep your speed constant

greenhome

www.greenhomemagazine.co.za

DWFCOLLECTIVE BS517451

The car-pool theory?

Saving money on the road is now easier with simple ECOPIANOMICS! The ECOPIA EP200 is a performance tyre with less rolling resistance so it saves you fuel and money! It’s more eco-friendly too and comes with a Tyre Damage Guarantee. Tread Smartly. Choose Bridgestone.

Bridgestone South Africa.Visit our website: www.bridgestone.co.za.

Available at:

treadsmartly.tv and other selected Bridgestone dealers.

thermoset, does not melt, drip or spread flame

environmentally friendly & recyclable

high compressive strength

moisture and wind resistant

aesthetically pleasing

the right choice for intelligent organs

reduces energy usage in a building

superior long term R-value

TM

CAPE TOWN: Tel: +27 (0)21 981 8814 • Fax: +27 (0)21 981 6322 • E-mail: carol@rigifoam.com • Units B18/19 Kruis Road, Brackenrite Business Park, Brackenfell.

PORT ELIZABETH: Tel: +27 (0)41 453 0277 • Fax: 086 532 5702 • E-mail: ronnie@rigifoam.com • 4 Bedford Road, Neave Industrial.

KWA-ZULU NATAL: Tel: +27 (0)31 700 5250 • Fax: +27 (0)31 700 4924 • E-mail: tristan@rigifoam.com • Unit G Pine Mead Industrial Park, 47 Gillitts Road, Westmead.

JOHANNESBURG: Tel: +27 (0)11 421 0313 • Fax: +27 (0)11 421 0410 • E-mail: duncan@rigifoam.com • 3 Detroit Street, Apex, Benoni.

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