Fact Sheet: Stepping Up To Sustainability - WESSA, June 2013


As the changing climate increasingly threatens food security, biodiversity, and general livelihood, the South African community is being brought together to learn about how they can live more sustainably and prepare for inevitable ecological change.


Working across South Africa, the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA) develops capacities in municipalities that stand to be most affected by a change in climate. This $2.2 million project funded by USAID implements an innovative seven step program to cultivate sustainable practices in local communities, including rainwater harvesting and water storage, organic agriculture, solar power, and energy efficiency, among others. In collaboration with the South African Qualification Authority (SAQA), WESSA is able to provide accredited trainings to junior and mid-level professionals to expand their environmental skills and employment opportunities. Initiated in January 2011 and continuing until January 2014, the program has and will continue to inspire thousands of South African leaders who want positively influence their environment.


1. To establish eleven permanent “sustainability commons” as well as two satellite commons where interested people can access resources and build their skills to live more sustainably,

2. To develop and administer a curriculum consisting of both accredited and unaccredited trainings to empower people to address climate change,

3. To develop and advance the use of innovative sustainable technologies that enhance human resiliency in the face of climate change.

Last updated: December 03, 2015