Stellenbosch University (SU) aims for a sustainable future. By doing this, SU is investing in “world -class renewable and sustainable energy research, advisory services, awareness campaigns and training programmes.”
On Thursday, 17 April, the Environmental Sustainability Team at Stellenbosch University planned an event called, “Neelsie PV Tour – Earth Day: Our Power, our Planet.” This event was said to take place between 11:00-11:45, however, it was cancelled. John de Wet, the Environmental Sustainability Manager stated, “Earth Day this year falls in a very bad time of the term for engagement. It is right in the middle of two long weekends.”
Christine Groenewald, the engagement coordinator for environmental sustainability stated that they wanted to create awareness for Earth Day, which is on Tuesday, 22 April. Their focus would’ve been on renewable energy and reducing your carbon emissions generated from fossil fuels to cleaner renewable energy. However, she added that they do host similar tours which includes taking people to see their recycling plant on the Welgevallen farm. Their first installation of PV panels (photovoltaic panels: a non-mechanical device that converts sunlight directly into electricity) was in 2019. John de Wet said that since their first installation, they have installed a further 3100 kilowatt PV system on Stellenbosch and Tygerberg campuses. According to him, this is still an ongoing project.
It is important for individuals, especially our future generation, to understand and care about where the energy we use comes from. De Wet stated that coal is one of the most polluting energy sources, resulting in it being a contributing factor to global heating, water scarcity and extreme weather.
Three small green habits provided by Groenewald and de Wet are:
- Walk more instead of driving
- Drink coffee and water from reusable containers
- Shorter shower
They shared that everyone needs to take responsibility to reduce their carbon emissions. Energy is a social issue. “Caring where your energy comes from means standing up for a fairer, cleaner future for all.”
By Amber Steyn
