The first week of September marks Arbour Week in South Africa, when citizens are encouraged to plant indigenous trees. Embracing the initiative, EnviroServ, which is committed to sustainability, mobilised team members to plant trees and vegetables at schools surrounding its waste management facilities.

Learners across the country listened as speakers highlighted the importance of Arbour Week. Trees are important in the fight against climate change and improve life for all by promoting a healthier environment through producing oxygen, reducing air pollution, and preventing soil erosion.

In Chloorkop, Johannesburg, EnviroServ together with Ekurhuleni Ward Councillor Gloria Ndinisa and representatives from Fibre Circle, visited O.R. Tambo Primary School where vegetable seedlings, indigenous and orange trees were planted. At Dr Harry Gwala Secondary School, learners were engaged in discussions about environmental careers. Environmental NGO Etwatwa Greening Team, who participated in the planting activities, expressed gratitude for EnviroServ’s ongoing commitment to environmental education and community engagement.

In Motherwell, Gqeberha, EnviroServ, community leaders and the Zwartkops Conservancy visited Ikhwezelihle Primary School. The delegation worked alongside learners and community members to plant trees.

The arrival of EnviroServ teams at Edamini Primary School in Shongweni and Vissershok Primary School in Cape Town sparked curiosity and excitement among learners as spinach, onion, peppers and beetroot were planted, along with two indigenous trees.

Principals at the schools, all part of the Department of Basic Education’s National School Nutrition Programme, welcomed EnviroServ’s support. Many expressed their appreciation for the help with their gardens, noting that they struggled to fund seed purchases.

“EnviroServ’s efforts for Arbour Week underscore our dedication to sustainability and environmental stewardship. A special thanks to our staff and partners who participated and demonstrated that sustainability is a collective responsibility,” said EnviroServ Head of Public Affairs and Communications, Makgabo van Niekerk. “EnviroServ is proud to be a leading force for protecting the environment in a wide variety of ways.”