Clermont Community Revitalises its Local Environment with Purpose
Good Things Guy | 05.03.2026 20:30
From clearing invasive vegetation on school campuses to transforming illegal dump sites into thriving gardens, WESSA’s Green Rising initiative has remarkably empowered the Clermont community to take charge of their environment.
Clermont, South Africa (05 March 2026) – In Clermont, KwaZulu-Natal, the community is breathing new life into its surroundings through WESSA’s Green Rising initiative. Whether they are rolling up their sleeves to tackle invasive plants at local schools or turning an illegal dump site into a lush garden, young and old alike are reclaiming their land.
Together, they are doing more than just restoring nature; they are building a powerful culture of environmental stewardship.
Starting the year strong, Clermont community members and the local ward councillor hosted an alien invasive clearing activity at Sthengile Senior Secondary School.
Dense invasive vegetation that had spread across more than two hectares of land on and around the school grounds was removed. This not only cleared the area and allowed indigenous plant life to recover but also created a safer, healthier environment for learners and educators alike.
Another WESSA partnership with Durban Solid Waste to rehabilitate an illegal dump site in the area saw more than 20 tonnes of waste removed from the site, significantly improving environmental conditions and reducing health risks for nearby residents.
After the clean-up, the area was rehabilitated and transformed into a functional biodiversity garden, providing a visible and lasting example of how degraded urban spaces can be reimagined. Even more inspiring, a neighbouring spaza shop officially adopted the garden, committing to its ongoing care and maintenance, demonstrating strong local ownership and pride in the restored environment.
“Both activities form part of the Green Rising initiative, which supports youth-driven environmental action while strengthening community resilience in the face of climate and ecological challenges.
“By combining hands-on environmental restoration with local partnerships and shared responsibility, these KwaZulu-Natal interventions show how meaningful change happens not only through policy and programmes, but through people working together to protect and restore the places that matter most to them,” the WESSA Marketing team proudly said.
