SU researchers explore alternative feed sources for goats and sheep

Study sheds light on global risk of heat stress to cattle

More than a billion cows globally could face heat stress by 2100 due to climate change and land use practices, according to a study published in Environmental Research Letters. The research, led by Dr Michelle North and her team, highlights the severe impact of heat stress on cattle, particularly in tropical regions. The study projects that if greenhouse gas emissions remain high, up to 90% of cattle could experience significant heat stress, affecting milk and meat production and threatening the viability of cattle farming. The researchers emphasize the need for sustainable farming practices and reducing emissions to mitigate these risks.

Invasive trees and recycled plastic a bargain for the environment and housing crisis

A new composite building material made from invasive Port Jackson trees and recycled plastic waste can help address South Africa’s housing shortage and environmental concerns. Dr Abubakar Sadiq Mohammed's research at Stellenbosch University demonstrates that this wood-plastic composite has superior mechanical properties and resistance to mould, making it suitable for low-cost housing. The study, supported by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research, highlights the potential of using invasive species and plastic waste to create eco-friendly building materials.

Stellenbosch University's annual Research for Impact publication (content, writing and editing involved)

Touws River treads water in an expanding economic crisis

Touws River, a town in South Africa, is facing an economic crisis with an unemployment rate over 80%. The NGO Compassionate Hearts, led by Rashaad Baker, feeds up to 1,000 people daily. The town's residents are heavily reliant on social welfare and food aid, with many households being food insecure. The article discusses the efforts of various organizations and government officials to address the food security crisis, including a 'learning journey' to understand and find solutions for the local food system. The town also faces challenges due to its location, lack of services, and the impact of climate change on agriculture. Initiatives like the Touwsrivier Commercial Hydroponics Farm offer some hope for sustainable employment and food security. The article highlights the need for collaboration among different stakeholders to address the complex issues facing Touws River.

Study explores impact of drought on apple and wheat farmers in the Western Cape

Theron's study investigates the impact of drought on apple and wheat farmers in the Western Cape, emphasizing the need for adaptation in agriculture due to climate change. The research highlights the increasing severity of droughts and temperature rises, particularly affecting regions like Ceres and the Swartland. Farmers have shown high adaptive capacity, employing various strategies to mitigate drought impacts. The study underscores the importance of understanding past droughts to build resilience and suggests that both short-term coping mechanisms and long-term resilience building are crucial for future-proofing agriculture.

Our own Greta Thunbergs fighting the floods of climate change in SA

Yola Mgogwana and Anelisa Mgedezi, two young climate activists from Khayelitsha, Cape Town, are fighting against climate change and its impacts on their community. Inspired by Greta Thunberg, they are involved in a court case to stop the South African government from expanding its coal fleet, advocating for a transition to renewable energy. The article highlights the severe socio-economic and environmental challenges faced by their community, exacerbated by climate change. It underscores the urgency of addressing climate inaction and the role of grassroots activism in driving change.

Northern Cape drought takes its toll on young people’s mental health ‘Great frustration and dashed dreams’: Northern Cape drought takes its toll on young people’s mental health

The article tells the story of Marcia Wilsket, an 18-year-old mother living in Williston, Northern Cape, South Africa, and how the severe drought affecting the region for nearly a decade has impacted her life and community. The drought has deepened social vulnerabilities, with many people losing jobs and living in survival mode. The town's primary economic activity, sheep farming, has suffered greatly, leading to a reduction in farmworkers and an increase in unemployment. The drought has also affected the mental health of the community, with increased stress, anxiety, and feelings of hopelessness, especially among the youth. The article discusses the broader implications of climate change on the region, with experts warning that southern Africa is warming at twice the global rate and that droughts are likely to become more frequent and severe. The piece highlights the need for better support systems for mental health, especially in rural areas, and calls for more attention to the mental health effects of climate change on young people.

Mother of asthmatic children fights for air in dirty shadow of coal power stations

The article tells the story of Mbali Mathebula, a mother of two children with severe asthma living in Emalahleni, South Africa, an area heavily polluted due to its coal-intensive industry. Mbali struggles to care for her children, Princess Nondumiso and Asemahle Angel, amidst the health risks posed by the polluted air. The family lives in poverty, and Mbali has lost her job due to the demands of caring for her sick children. The article also covers the broader issues of air pollution, the impact of coal mining, and the legal actions taken by environmental justice organizations to halt the construction of new coal power plants. These organizations argue that the government's plans violate environmental, life, dignity, and equality rights, particularly affecting poor, black South Africans. The article highlights the mental health impacts of climate change and the urgent need for a transition away from fossil fuels.

Struggling small-scale fishers are thrown a lifeline by pilot project

Efforts to support small-scale fishers, particularly those dependent on West Coast rock lobster, have been severely impacted by Covid-19. The pandemic has exacerbated existing challenges, including market disruptions and delays in policy implementation. ABALOBI, a social enterprise based in Cape Town, is using technology to create a more transparent and fair value chain for fishers. Their pilot project has connected fishers directly to restaurants, bypassing middlemen and ensuring fair prices. Despite the challenges, the initiative has shown promise, with increased interest from both fishers and restaurants. The project aims to expand, promoting sustainable fishing practices and reducing illegal trade. Key figures in the initiative include Dr. Serge Raemaekers, David Shoshola, and Chris Kastern, who emphasize the need for structural reforms and community-driven management of marine resources.