South Africa and European Union nations earlier this week announced a massive renewable energy initative, and this was launched in Durban on Wednesday. The South African Renewables Initiative (SARi) is in a bid to scale up and secure long-term funding to enable the growth of the renewable energy industry in South Africa.

Several international groups have joined forces and are calling for a consumer boycott of all Namibian produce, sport and tourism, which includes de Beers diamonds, The Rugby World Cup, Heineken and Guinness. The boycott has the backing of a number of South African celebrities, including Miss South Africa. 

Last week three more rhinos died in the Kruger National Park. The demand for illegal rhino horn this time also claimed the life of a calf. Gunshots were heard and rangers went to investigate. Tragically, it was too late: The poachers were already sawing the horns off one of the rhinos.

Please join us inwardly for a special prayer and meditation vigil for the elephants - the magnificent, gentle giants, guardians of the Earth - on 12/12, Sunday December 12, at 12 noon ' 1 pm in your time zone (or for as long as you are able and at a time that works for you that day). Performing a sacred ceremony or chanting a mantra would also be appropriate. Whatever calls to you.

There is growing concern about the impact that illegal trade in is having on wildlife populations world-wide, while the potential risk posed to indigenous species should these imported alien animals escape, is also cause for concern.

South Africa is in the midst of a terrestrial war over rhino horn poaching, a war that has spiked in recent years to frightening heights.

There is a real threat in our country that alien reptiles, introduced by the pet trade, can get out of hand.