🌍 Celebrating Earth Day with Trees, Community, and Action 🌱

On Saturday, 12 April, the Mosselbank River Conservation Team (MRCT) teamed up with the Durbanville Lions Club to host a tree planting event in honour of Earth Day — and what an inspiring day it turned out to be!

While Earth Day is officially celebrated on April 22nd, we kicked things off a little early by getting our hands dirty for a good cause. Held near the Mosselbank River Corridor, this event brought together 32 enthusiastic volunteers of all ages who came ready to dig, plant, and connect with nature.

Thanks to the City of Cape Town’s Parks and Recreation Department and their wonderful Adopt a Tree project, we received 10 beautiful trees to plant in this cherished green space. Trees may seem like a small gesture, but their impact is massive — from improving air quality to supporting biodiversity and fighting climate change.

Cllr Francois Berry, MRCT Director Elizabeth, volunteer Maria, and local eco-warriors from Greenville, Fisantekraal proudly stand with the newly planted tree during the Earth Day Event.

🌳 Why Trees Matter

Trees aren’t just part of the scenery — they’re essential to life. They absorb carbon dioxide, provide oxygen, offer shelter to wildlife, and help prevent soil erosion. In urban spaces, they cool down our neighborhoods and give us places to rest, reflect, and recharge.

💬 Learning, Growing, and Giving Back

Our very own Danielle Cronje, Director of MRCT and President of the Durbanville Lions Club, led a quick but powerful educational talk for all our volunteers — especially the kids! She spoke about the importance of trees, environmental responsibility, and how small actions lead to big change. To wrap things up, the young eco-warriors were proudly awarded certificates for their participation — and their energy was truly contagious.

Young Eco Warriors proudly display their newly planted tree, celebrating a step towards a greener future.

🌱 Earth Day Is Every Day

It’s easy to think of Earth Day as a one-off celebration, but the truth is: protecting our planet is a daily commitment. You don’t have to start big. Drive less. Use less plastic. Eat more plant-based meals. Support local environmental groups. Volunteer at a clean-up. Whatever fits into your life — just do something. And keep doing it.

🌍 Looking Ahead

We’re so grateful for everyone who joined us and made this event a success. At MRCT, we believe in building a future where people and nature thrive together. With continued community support, we can keep growing — one tree, one action, and one inspired volunteer at a time.

Thank you for showing up for the planet. 💚Until next time — stay rooted, stay hopeful, and keep giving back to the Earth.