Raising a Wind Turbine in Durban
Greenpeace and Tcktcktck volunteers raise a wind turbine on the beach at dawn in Durban, South Africa. To send a message of hope for the latest round of UN climate change talks opening here on Monday. Campaigners say Durban must be a new dawn for the international negotiations to agree a fair, ambitious and legally binding treaty to avert climate chaos. They are demanding that politicians stop listening to the polluting corporations and listen to the people who want an end to our dependence on fossil fuels. Africa is on the front line of dangerous climate change, with millions already suffering the impacts through increased drought and extreme weather events, threatening lives and food security.
© Shayne Robinson / Greenpeace
When I arrived at the venue for COP17, the first thing that caught my attention was the overflowing information that was exhibited at the Climate Change Response Expo. It encompassed more than 100 exhibitors, showcasing innovative ideas on how to curtail climate change, the overall message centering on the use of cleaner renewable energy sources. Exhibits included, science and technology, business, green solutions, NGO’s, energy, environment, etc.
I must admit, I was overwhelmed by the amount of free information within my grasp, I felt like a kid in a candy store, ready to raid the exhibition stands.
The ICC (venue for the climate change conference) was a hive of activity as the plenaries went underway. I had to orientate myself quickly amongst all the 'suits', who also looked equally lost as I was. Clearly marked instructions and marshals located throughout the venue helped me to familiarise myself quickly with the imposing building which I have always marveled from a distance.
On Monday the 28th November, the official opening day of the COP17, I witnessed the handing of the COP17 Presidency from Mexico, to South Africa’s, Maite Nkoana-Mashabane.
It was at this particular event where South African President Jacob Zuma addressed delegates. He underscored the need for the conference to come up with concrete solutions, it was also mentioned that a positive outcome from Durban is within our grasp.
I was however not satisfied with his address as I expected him to use the platform to intensify the need for urgency in mitigating climate change. As far as I am concerned President Zuma should have played the part of the protagonist and lead the way for real, positive and tangible change, enticing other leaders to do the same.
I was disappointed because I believe that without concrete drastic action Durban could be the “burial ground” for the Kyoto Protocol.