COMMENT ON: INCREASE IN ELECTRICITY TARIFFS

The recent announcement of a 25% increase in the cost of electricity over the next three years has been greeted with dismay by almost everyone. The negative impacts on development, industry and the general cost of living will be enormous.

However, it is also possible to view this in a slightly different way. It is well known that people value that for which they pay and for many years South Africa has enjoyed relatively cheap electricity derived from low grade coal. This comes at a very high cost to the environment as the low grade coal we burn in South Africa to generate electricity has a negative impact on the environment.

Perhaps now is the time to take stock of our electricity consumption, both in our businesses and homes, and to take up the 25% challenge to reduce our consumption by over the next three years. The less we use, the less we pay and the less we impact on the environment.

Large amounts of carbon dioxide are emitted into the environment during the manufacture of electricity in South Africa and this ultimately affects climate change. From a marine perspective, carbon emissions are harming coral reefs. Excess carbon dioxide is absorbed by the oceans, causing them to become more acidic. The increase in acidity is affecting the ability of corals to produce their skeletons. The increasing temperatures associated with climate change are also harming the ability of coral reefs to grow.

Coral reefs are spectacular natural wonders and are among the world’s most diverse ecosystems, they are also very vulnerable to human impact. Although they make up less than 0.2% in area of the marine environment, coral reefs are the most biodiverse ecosystems of the oceans, estimated to be home to almost one third of all marine species. Coral reefs support a myriad of fish, invertebrates, algae and other marine life, all connected in the intricate web of life.

So, if you want to help save our coral reefs, and save yourself money, here are some ideas for you to think about:

• Do an energy Audit – where can you save electricity
• Buy energy-efficient appliances.
• Switch plugs off at the wall
• Reduce your geyser temperatures and install geyser blankets
• Invest in solar water-heaters
• Take short showers instead of baths
• Cold wash your clothes
• Use clothes lines and not tumble dryers

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