It is based on the assumption that 25 000 visitors will flood into Durban when COP17 begins later this month.
eThekwini Environmental Planning and Climate Protection deputy head, Debra Roberts, said the initial assessment had factored in accommodation; conference venues; transportation; and waste removal logistics.
She said the national government would be focusing on the other aspects of the carbon footprint, such as international air travel, but the city was more concerned with the impact on energy and water resources.
“We are looking at prioritising adaptation to counter the effects of the carbon footprint."
Adaptation would be “Africanised", or tailored to suit the needs of those living in African cities.
“We have decided to launch a community ecosystem-based adaptation programme (Ceba) that will absorb 16 000 tons of carbon dioxide," she said. Read the full report here.
Source: by Kamcilla Pillay, IOL, Daily News.
