With the country in the grips of a serious drought, eThekwini Mayor Cllr James Nxumalo is urging all businesses with sustainability products to participate in the seventh annual Sustainable Living Exhibition.

In line with promoting the strategic goals of the City’s Long Term Development Plan, this invitation is also open to those with ideas that will help save water or produce electricity naturally without taxing the
planet’s natural resources.

This greening showcase will take place at the Durban Exhibition Centre from 19-21 August.

“We need to encourage people now, more than ever, to conserve our precious resources. The lack of rain over the past few years and excessive water usage has slowly eroded the water reserves in our natural systems. Everyone has been affected by the drought, and therefore this exhibition is a critical one that raises awareness about climate change, issues of sustainability, and encourages our communities to take sustainable living seriously,” said Nxumalo.

All SMMEs, business entrepreneurs, NGOs, schools and other civic bodies are encouraged to register to
participate and showcase their environmentally friendly products and services to the public. Besides showcasing new and innovative products, the exhibition is also a great platform to network, market your business and create linkages with others.

The event organiser, Dorothy Lutchmiah said that exhibition stands were running up fast as this was an ideal opportunity for organisations and individuals to showcase their greener-living ideas under one roof. “This will be the City’s seventh exhibition.  Last year we had 380 exhibitors with over 17500 visitors during the three-day expo. Exhibitors showcased everything from water and energy-saving devices, recycling innovations to food gardening methods. The Exhibition Centre was abuzz with talks, demonstrations, puppet shows, quizzes, that both adults and children found entertaining and educational.

This year the City plans to host the first Durban International Summit on Co-operation. The summit will see our sister cities not only attend the summit but also exhibit,” she said. Schools are offered stands for free and educators are encouraged to showcase their greening ideas.  The exhibition is the City’s premier greening event and an opportunity for residents to find various ways to start adopting
and maintain a green lifestyle.

To book your stand email Dorothy.Lutchmiah@durban.gov.za or contact 0313114277. jessie.singh@durban.gov.za