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CLIMATE CHANGE:
       CLIMATE CHANGE:
       RESILIENT
       RESILIENT
       INNOVATIONS FOR
       INNOVATIONS FOR
       A GREENER FUTURE
       A GREENER FUTURE




           limate change is defined as the substantial variation in average   2.  Indigenous  plant  selection: As climate change unfolds, it alters
           weather conditions over several decades or longer, becoming   ecosystems, thus making it critical to select plants such as  Aloe
      Cwarmer, wetter or drier. Since 1990, the average temperature in the   africana and  Portulacaria afra (known as the Spekboom/Elephant
       country has risen twice as quickly as the average temperature globally   bush), grown in the low water usage hydrozone, that can adapt to
       (1,5 °C). The National Adaptation Plan for South Africa states that there is   the new environment and thrive. Due to their ability to adapt to the
       evidence of an increase in extreme weather events, including a modest   local environment, indigenous plants in the correct location and
       extension of dry spell durations, an increase in heat waves (sometimes   hydrozone need less water (which can also be enhanced using mulch),
       manifested as part of the El Niño effect), and an increase in rainfall   maintenance and pesticides.
       intensity (floods). Furthermore, there has been a significant shift in the   3.  Sustainable materials: Using sustainable materials is just as important
       rainfall seasonality in South Africa. Climate change also impacts severely   to landscaping as using plants. Choose recycled, sustainable materials
       on water scarcity which is a result of more frequent droughts and water   for your landscaping tasks or those that are sourced locally.
       shortages in some areas of the country. For these reasons, we must modify   4.  Intelligent irrigation systems: Most reports state that smart irrigation
       our habits and way of life to build a sustainable future in a world where   saves approximately 50 % in water use. Investing in intelligent irrigation
       climate change is more than just a catch-phrase. Frequently regarded as   systems that can monitor the weather and modify watering schedules
       merely an aesthetic improvement, landscaping is essential to this change.   is necessary.
                                                               5.  Carbon-sequestering landscapes: South Africa is not just the continent’s
                                                                highest emitter of greenhouse gases – it also ranks amongst the top
                                                                25 emitters globally. In addition to improving the aesthetics of your
                                                                landscape, planting trees and shrubs helps absorb carbon dioxide. Trees
                                                                are a natural resource in the fight against greenhouse gas emissions
                                                                since they emit oxygen into the atmosphere and absorb carbon dioxide.
                                                                Constructed wetlands also serve as a huge carbon sequester.
                                                               6.  Green roofs and walls: Incorporate green roofs or walls to improve
                                                                insulation, reduce urban heat island effects, and provide additional green
                                                                space. These features can also contribute to biodiversity and air quality
                                                                improvements.
                                                               7.  Rainwater harvesting: Harvest rainwater by collecting it in a water tank.
                                                                Remember that 1mm of rainwater is equivalent to 1 litre of water per
                                                                1 meter square of surface. You can save up to 30% of water by using
                                                                alternative water sources.

                                                               Not only are you making a lovely outdoor area for your family to enjoy,
                                                               but you’re also improving the health of the entire world when you
                                                               incorporate sustainability and climate resilience into your garden design.
       Steps for landscape-resilient designs to mitigate climate change   Let your gardening decisions be a statement of your commitment to a more
       barriers                                                sustainable and environmentally friendly future, as we work to mitigate the
       1.  Hydrozoning: Group your plants with similar watering requirements to   effects of climate change.
        reduce the needless use of water. This can be achieved by incorporating
        the following zones within your landscape design:      Rand Water continues to uphold its commitment to encourage water-
       •  High water use zone: Covering 10 – 30% of the garden. This area requires   saving behaviours by using the Water Wise brand.
        more water (750 – 1000 mm per year).
       •  Medium water use zone: Covering 20 – 40% of the garden. Plants in this   #BeWaterWise
        zone receive limited water (500 – 750mm per year).
       •  Low water use zone: Covering 30 – 60% of the garden. This area should
        receive 300 – 500mm per year of water.
       •  Very low water use zone: This zone should cover the largest part of the
       garden (< 300mm of water per year).
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