The provincial Department of Economic Development and Tourism hosted its first Green Economy Research Conference at the Durban ICC, with the aim of promoting economic activities that promote sustainability whilst protecting the environment. A range of knowledgeable speakers from civil society, government, business and academia gave presentations.

Acting HOD at the Department of Economic Development and Tourism Sibusiso Myeza stated that the world is changing and that the next economic wave would focus on innovation in energy, food, transport and waste management amongst other priorities. Catherine Sutherland of the UKZN School of Development studies emphasized that “The costs and risks associated with business-as-usual is becoming too high, and South Africa is following leading global economies in embracing a greener economic paradigm.”

Frikkie Brooks, from the KZN Planning Commission, said the province had put plans in place for a growth and development strategy for 2030 that would push to achieve seven goals around a green economy including job creation, environment sustainability and human and community development. Brooks said now that the developed world was exploring technology and other areas for a green economy. He said the country had the potential to come up with solutions that could also assist other African countries.
Sustainable Energy Africa's Megan Euston-Brown said governments were paying more attention to greener economies now following the recent recession. Economies need to be recharged but without the depletion of further resources. Euston-Brown added that the South African government was very conscious about climate change and the country's resources, therefore taking the necessary measures.

Unilever and the South African Sugar Association explained how their visions could contribute to a green economy. Unilever, which operates in 180 countries, plans to halve its carbon foot print in the next 10 years while doubling its turnover. The company has built its first green manufacturing plant for South Africa. Unilever representative, Ross Plumbley, said the company recycled 60 percent of its waste and was looking at ways to address the 40 percent that goes to landfill sites. The South African Sugar Association has been liaising with several government departments to contribute to the production of renewable energy. Last year, KZN Economic Development and Tourism MEC Mike Mabuyakhulu said at the South African Sugar Association Development Indaba that bio-fuels were becoming an increasingly important source of energy globally.

Dr Andrew Venter, CEO of the Wildlands Conservation Trust presented the KZN Integrated Greening Programme which was launched through a unique partnership with the KZN Provincial Government. Since the 1st April 2011 this Programme has created 352 full-time jobs and 2 189 part-time jobs, across the uMgungundlovu, uMkhanyakude, Sisonke, uThungulu and Zululand District Municipalities and eThekweni Metropolitan Municipality. These jobs represent an amazing 81 671person days. In the process 467 414 trees have been grown, 277 891trees planted and 519 723 kg’s of recycling collected â€" cleaning and greening our communities.

In addition presentations on renewable energy, carbon tax, waste management, and agriculture provided much information and provoked thought and discussion. The KZN Department of Economic Development and Tourism plans to continue to engage with all stakeholders in the implementation of a green economy.