African Climes

Climate change often seems to be a huge problem, a global problem, something that cannot be solved by the ordinary person. ‘But what can I do about such a huge problem, a global problem?’, you ask. It is true, climate change is a global problem, affecting the planet everywhere albeit in different ways. It is also true that most emissions are from big industries and some things like transport emissions seems unavoidable since we all use a vehicle at some point or the other. This is changing however, with the rise of electric cars powered by renewable energy. But worry not, there are things that every person, as an individual can do to reduce their carbon footprint [1] . The goal in climate action is to shift to a low carbon pathway. A low carbon pathway is a way of life that promotes the release of zero or very little amounts of greenhouse gas emissions. It is a collective effort, where the whole of society, industries, businesses, civil society, private sector, government...

Positive Power of Sport Sports alongside music are one of the most universally acclaimed ways of bringing people together. It doesn’t matter what our religious or political affiliations are, a good game of football will bring some good cheer and endorphins flowing across the globe. Needless to say, sports personalities occupy the throne when it comes to popularity ratings. Athletes are particularly famous, becoming national icons and symbols of pride, heroes and heroines throughout the world. We name our streets and children after them. We come up with viral buzz phrases in their honour. Remember Bend it Like Beckham   in appreciation of David Beckham? These personalities have mass appeal and cult-like following. Think of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, the football legends of our generation. Each has about a dozen international awards. Both have been awarded the World’s Best Footballer award severally. Here's the Argentinian legend and FC Barcelona...

Let’s get to the topic of today : sports and climate change. First of all, everyone  loves sports. Yes we do, we adore it, love kicking a ball, watching the ball and having a ball at it. Alternatively, we love the thrill of watching someone race another fellow and win the gold, silver and bronze. More importantly, we love it when our favourite athletes sweep the podium and take all the honours. In fact, people get more patriotic when their country wins a medal. That’s when we remember all the words of the national anthem and hold our hands on our chests with fervor, respect and a little bit of wet in our eyes. Okay, let’s get to it Ladies and gentlemen, how do sports contribute to climate change? Well like this you see: Stadiums Let’s start with the materials used to build stadium. A lot of concrete is used. Plastic also. Metal too. Plastic is made of petrochemicals unless it is biodegradable plastic which is more expensive and not as readily availa...