Go-ahead given for Blue Economy innovations
28 September 2015
Delivering his State of the City Address in May, Executive Mayor, Councillor Mpho Parks Tau said the intention of the blue economy is “to use smart innovation to solve complex problems.”
The implementation of Blue Economy programmes is getting closer to reality with detailed projects, timeframes and expected outcomes falling into place.
The Mayoral Committee has given the go-ahead for the implementation of projects that will put Johannesburg at the forefront of innovations that can transform service delivery, create jobs and promote entrepreneurship among residents. A number of projects with high-potential for success have been investigated and feasibility studies conducted. The decision by the Mayoral Committee means that the practical implementation of the Blue Economy projects will start within the current financial year.
Blue Economy is described as a model that will shift society from scarcity to abundance with what is locally available. In the Blue Economy there are no waste products. Materials are continuously reused through a “closed loop” process which turns them into new products, new components and new materials.
Programme
The Joburg bread will use fruit trimmings to replace flour and create a healthier and more affordable alternative. This programme will help to address food insecurity which affects 1.4-million people in Johannesburg.
Micro mushroom farms will turn a nutritious product into viable businesses for thousands of community-based enterprises. Local entrepreneurs will install low-flush toilets and water-saving urinals as a standard feature in Joburg homes, offices and businesses. In-pipe turbines within the water network will generate power and be made available to households and industry.
Organic waste will be diverted to bio-digesters to harvest gas for fuel and energy. Tonnes of rubble from illegal dumpsites will be converted into stone paper that can be used for eco-friendly packaging, containers and shopping bags.