Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) today officially launched its Soweto Greening Project in a bid to preserve and boost the appeal of the environment in the sprawling township. In a planting ceremony led by ACSA staff members, a total of 400 trees were committed to be planted along the June 16 tourist route which spans about four kilometres in total,
The project is a partnership between ACSA and Johannesburg City Parks and aims to keep the environment tourist-friendly. “The Soweto Greening Project is a demonstration of our commitment to nurturing the environment beyond our airport’s borders,” says Nothemba Noruwana, the Communications Manager O.R. Tambo International Airport.
“Through this project we aim to build a pleasant environment for the local community and enhance the tourist appeal of this already popular hotspot. ACSA is committed to contributing to the natural wealth of South Africa in addition to the economy as we are already doing.”
ACSA staff planted three hundred trees during the launch ceremony. The balance of the trees are expected to be planted in the coming weeks.
The planting of the trees in Soweto is part of ACSA’s corporate social investment (CSI) programme. The programme is based on three legs key amongst which is the environment.
“Projects that enhance environmental awareness, infrastructure rehabilitation and education based on promoting care for the country’s natural heritage are an area of focus,” says Noruwana.
She concluded, “Even as we grow infrastructure to accommodate increasing air traffic, we remain cognisant of the need to balance the effect of this increase by constantly looking out for the broader environment.”
For enquiries, contact:
Nothemba Noruwana
Communications Manager: Airports Company South Africa
Tel: 011 921 6087 / 0798827307
e-Mail: nothemba.noruwana@airports.co.za
