It is an unfortunate reality that environmentalists are often defined by what they oppose, rather than what they propose. In many instances this allows them to be labeled and dismissed as being anti-development or against the interests of humans. Environmentalism, however, is profoundly human centric in that it considers the way in which we can bring about long term development and combat poverty through enhancing the natural resource base that makes this all possible. The final finding of the Report is that “The challenge of reversing the degradation of ecosystems while meeting increasing demands for their services can be partially met but these involve significant changes in policies, institutions and practices that are not currently under way.”

I firmly believe that South Africa can and should lead the world in these significant changes. As hosts of the World Summit on Sustainable Development, the third richest country in biodiversity and currently one of the highest per capita emitters of greenhouse gases in the world, it is a responsibility and challenge we have to live up to. In doing this we have to think both Big and Small. We need to think Big in terms of what is possible and our belief that we can be world leaders. But we also need to think small, by empowering individuals and communities and giving them the means to create prosperous and sustainable livelihoods. In the fishing sector for instance, we need greater control and co-management with those fishing communities who possess a wealth of knowledge on this resource. In agriculture, we must empower communities with the skills to grow organic produce, like the farmers in Nieuwoudtville who are getting 10 times the price for their Rooibos because of this change.

In the area of combating climate change, South Africa is perfectly positioned to bring about the renewable energy revolution. Instead of conducting studies on the negative economic impact of the Kyoto Protocol, we should be conducting research into how we can be at the forefront of developing the new technologies that the world is fast moving towards. Unfortunately this government has chosen to put all its research money into nuclear instead of considering the fastest growing sectors of solar and wind energy. This parliament therefore urgently needs to have a nuclear summit where we can openly and honestly debate the correct energy path for South Africa.

Minister, I am not only an optimistic environmentalist but a proud South African who believes that just as South Africa showed the world how to turn human wrongs into human rights, we can show the world how to turn environmental destruction into true sustainable development. The Independent Democrats and I look forward to helping make this vision a reality.

I thank you.