It’s all systems go, as the second of three G20 Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group (ECSWG), gets underway at the Kruger National Park, Skukuza, Mpumalanga, from 14 – 18 July 2025.
Dr Dion George, the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DAFF), said “this technical meeting is our first in-person meeting and will ensure alignment with South Africa’s policy priorities and global sustainability commitments. After months of planning, we are ready to welcome over 250 delegates including representatives from G20 member states, invited countries, international organisations, government officials and the media.”
Outcomes of the meeting will be tabled at environmental and climate-related discussions, within other G20 Working Groups to ensure an integrated approach to sustainability.
These will also be used to engage stakeholders and member states, to drive collaborative initiatives and secure actionable outcomes, in areas such as climate finance, biodiversity conservation, pollution management and ocean governance.
“We are hosting this meeting at the Kruger National Park which is important for us as DFFE, in support of our Kruger-Kirstenbosch-Isimangaliso Icon Strategy (KISS), which seeks to elevate these iconic natural spaces – the Kruger National Park, Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden, and iSimangaliso Wetland Park – into global standards in conservation, tourism, and community empowerment” said George.
20 trees, one for each G20 member, will be planted on Tuesday, outside the Nombolo Mdluli Conference Centre.
On the last day, there will be a live demonstration of conservation efforts, in fighting wildlife crime –highlighting the dehorning process by South African National Parks Veterinary Services.
Picture: Supplied