Cape Town dinner shares vision for low carbon future

Alderman Belinda Walker hosted a high level Cape Town dinner at the Climate Smart Cape Town Pavilion at COP 17 in Durban this week, with the aim of sharing Cape Town’s vision for a low carbon future and an economy based on sustainable pathways.

Alderman Walker (pictured to the right) invited partners to work together with the City to ensure that this vision becomes a reality and in so doing help to create a beacon for Africa.

Senior officials from World Bank, Global Environmental Fund, UNEP, UNDP, the Carbon War Room, ICLEI and private sector organisations attended the dinner.

Says Alderman Walker, “It was a dinner with a difference hosted in the most incredible space at COP17, the Climate Smart Cape Town Pavilion, made entirely out of recycled and reusable materials, off the grid, generating its own power from wind and solar – a fantastic practical example of sustainable living.”

Alderman Walker and City Officials discussed the Optimum Energy Future for Cape Town, which includes an Action Plan to guide implementation.

Says Alderman Walker, “The City is very well placed to put forward projects arising out of the Plan that meet the criteria of funders to mitigate and adapt to climate change.  It is an ambitious Plan, but one that the City is committed to implementing. We are looking for organisations and corporate partners that are willing to work with us, guide us and share knowledge”, she said.

Quotes from some of the guests:

“’We hope that this is the start of something special, and helps a wonderful City to become even more sustainable.” Peter Boyd, Chief Operations Officer, the Carbon War Room.

“Congratulations on your COP 17 stand and especially on your beautiful, well-managed City – a great example to others.” Daniel Hoornweg, World Bank.

“Best pavilion of all. Keep up the good work.” Claus Astrup, World Bank.

“Based on your presence during the COP, I can’t wait to visit Cape Town.”  Murat Armbruster, Senior Advisor Carbon War Room.

“We congratulate you for developing Climate Smart Cape Town. This is an example to replicate, not only in South Africa, but in Africa and beyond.”  Pedro Basabe, UNEP.

“Your stand is a fantastic example of sustainable living and ideas. The City of Cape Town is truly setting an example to others.” Louwrens Visser, Sustainability Officer, Siemens.

“Cape Town is not only one of the most beautiful and creative cities, but is also on the cutting edge of green energy, fighting climate change and conserving biodiversity.  The City is a model and has much to show the world.” David Cadman, President of ICLEI International.

“I am so inspired by the vision and commitment and achievements of this remarkable team. Cape Town is setting a whole new standard for what is possible.” Charles McNeill, Senior Policy Advisor for UN REDD UNDP.