In a symbol of the City of Cape Town’s commitment to sustainability, 20 indigenous trees were planted in the park — contributing to long-term urban greening efforts and climate resilience.
The chosen species are already present in the park and have demonstrated a high survival rate. Furthermore they are not reproductive hosts for the polyphagous shot-hole borer (PSHB), which supports their continued survival.
Learners from Springfield Covenant Senior School, Plumstead High School and Rosmead Central Primary School participated in interactive sessions and educational displays designed to empower the next generation of environmental stewards.
They conducted energy and carbon emissions audits of their respective schools. They then recommended quick and cost-effective steps that each school could take to reduce their energy use and carbon emissions. Each school presented their results using posters.
‘Our youth are key partners in securing a more sustainable future and events like these are vital to inspiring action. By planting trees and sparking conversations around clean energy and climate change, we are turning awareness into action – right here in our communities,’ said Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Francine Higham.
‘Today’s Earth Day celebrations were a reminder of the role our community plays in shaping a sustainable future. It was inspiring to see so many young people engage in tree planting and learn about the importance of protecting our environment. We are proud to partner with the City in making Wynberg Park a hub for environmental education and action,’ said Rory Rochat, from the Friends of Wynberg Park.
‘Earth Day is more than just a date on the calendar. It is a call to action for each of us to care for the spaces we share. Seeing young people take the lead in both planting trees and evaluating their own carbon footprint gives me hope that our efforts today will bear fruit in the years to come. Wynberg Park is a special part of our ward, and it is one of two of the “Great Parks” in Ward 62. It is heartening to see it come alive with learning, collaboration and a shared vision for a greener, healthier future,’ said Ward 62 Councillor Emile Langenhoven.
Springfield Convent School highlighted two of their ongoing environmental restoration projects. With permission from the City, learners collect Silver Tree seeds from Wynberg Park and propagate them on school grounds. The initiative aims to reintroduce Silver Trees to the campus, where they once grew naturally before being lost due to development.
The school also showcased their conservation work focused on protecting the endangered Western Leopard Toad. Their efforts aim to safeguard the remaining population by controlling the spread of invasive Guttural Toads, thereby helping to preserve the delicate ecological balance and support local biodiversity.
The day was brought to life through multi-departmental collaboration. The Energy Department hosted an informative display on renewable power, while Environmental Management facilitated a hands-on environmental education programme for learners.
The Recreation and Parks Department, as the lead organiser, aligned its activities with its core focus areas — tree planting, carbon reduction and greening public spaces. These initiatives directly support Earth Day’s call for climate action and highlight the City’s role in building a sustainable, equitable and prosperous future.
The event not only focused on environmental action, but also inspired hope for a sustainable future, especially among the youth who participated in tree planting and educational activities.
As Cape Town continues to invest in a greener tomorrow, Earth Day serves as an important reminder that our planet’s power lies in our collective responsibility — and the City is proud to be leading the charge.
