Early-career public-sector sustainability professionals reflect on VERGE 19

As a result of increased agricultural activity brought about by the expansion of the wine industry, the biodiversity of the floral kingdom is under threat in the Cape Winelands. A conservation programme by the WWF is now helping to ensure that wine farms decrease their impact on the environment.  Wine farmers in the Cape Winelands are increasingly turning to alternative farming methods, which are helping to preserve the two global biodiversity hotspots in the region.  About 95% of South Africa’s wines are produced in the Cape Winelands, which is in the Cape Floral Kingdom and includes the Succulent Karoo biome. Unesco has recognised it as one of the world’s six floral kingdoms and it is the smallest and most diverse plant kingdom.

By a conservative estimate, there are 200 Mn two-wheelers, 35 Mn cars & utility vehicles, six Mn commercial vehicles and another six Mn tractors in India. It is a common understanding today that when these vehicles reach the end of their life, they become an environmental hazard. The recently announced Vehicle Scrappage Policy is the right step towards regulating and mitigating the environmental risks they pose. Of course, the impact of the policy goes well beyond that. Once it fully kicks in, its knock-on impact will also help the domestic auto industry reduce its input costs. But even the best-formulated policy cannot address all aspects of a challenge.

E-waste is the world’s fastest growing waste stream and much of it is handled unsafely, causing pollution, human health hazards, and the loss of valuable finite resources. Take this short quiz to test your e-waste knowledge.