Victoria Falls launches Sustainability Monograph…paves way for net-zero future

Rutendo Nyeve Victoria Falls Reporter THE City of Victoria Falls has further solidified its position as a leader in environmental stewardship, following the launch of its Sustainability Monograph, a comprehensive roadmap designed to transition the city into a net-zero, green economy.The document outlines ambitious strategies to attract green investment, unlock climate finance, create green jobs, and foster a circular economy, all while conserving biodiversity and enhancingVictoria Falls’ status as an eco-friendly tourism destination The launch was held at a local hotel and was attended by seniorGovernment officials, business leaders, civil society representatives, and international partners.The monograph represents a bold step forward in aligning the city’s development with global climate goals, including the Paris Agreement and Zimbabwe’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).The Minister of Environment, Climate and Wildlife, Dr Evelyn Ndlovu, represented by Chief Director in the Ministry Dr Washington Zhakata commended Victoria Falls for its visionary leadership.She hailed the monograph as a “declaration of intent” that positions the city as a beacon of sustainability for Africa.“Victoria Falls, already globally recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has now added another accolade to its name, recently accredited as a Ramsar Wetland City This recognition places the City on a new platform, not only as a tourism hub but as a beacon of sustainability and environmental leadership in Africa.“Congratulations, City of Victoria Falls This status is not just a badge of honour, it is a testament to the city’s wise use of wetlands, its commitment to sustainable urban development, and its profound respect for environmental stewardship,” said Dr Ndlovu.The Minister emphasised the city’s innovative projects, such as the Sewer Water Filtration System, which recycles wastewater for irrigation, reducing emissions and supporting biodiversity

She also highlighted the potential for carbon credit generation.“Through wastewater reuse, wetland conservation, renewable energy investments, and sustainable tourism practices, Victoria Falls is not only creating local benefits, but positioning itself to generate carbon credits and tap into climate finance mechanisms that can catalyse even greater impact,” she said.Victoria Falls Town Clerk, Mr Ronnie Dube underscored the city’s commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and outlined practical strategies to achieve a green transition.“Transitioning to a Green City involves implementing practical strategies that enhance the urban environment while promoting social equity and economic viability.“The city aims to improve public transport systems, encourage the use of renewable energy, and enhance green spaces These initiatives will not only reduce our carbon footprint but also foster a healthier, more vibrant community,” he said.Mr Dube highlighted the economic benefits of sustainability, including attracting investment, creating jobs, and cutting long-term operational costs.He called for collective action “The success of our initiatives relies on the active participation of all stakeholders, residents, businesses, and Government Together, we can create a resilient and sustainable future for Victoria Falls,” he said.Mr Anglistone Sibanda, the architect of the monograph, explained its significance in driving Victoria Falls toward a net-zero future.“A monograph is a document that simply means one critical path towards environmental sustainability, which is what the City ofVictoria Falls embarked on

What this document does is that it outlines the city’s sources of emissions, because according to the World Economic Forum, cities contribute 80 percent to the total global emissions So the trajectory is that if cities align to the Paris Agreement and commit to the reduction of emissions like what the City of Victoria Falls has done, we are going to fast-track our net-zero goals,” he saidShare on FacebookPost on XFollow usSave

Originally published on Zimbabwe Herald

Source: Zimbabwe Herald