Durban - A relaxed Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe earlier today completed a 3km walk along Durban's beachfront to raise awareness about the rising sea levels.
Motlanthe, joined by KwaZulu-Natal Premier Zweli Mkhize, a few provincial MECs and hundreds of people, completed the "Walk the Future" walk by following a blue line created on the streets symbolising the future impact of rising sea levels on the coastline.
"The idea was to indicate the rising water levels," said Motlanthe, pointing out the urgency that needs to be given to the issue of climate change.
He said if sea levels were to rise by just one percent, coastal communities would be in serious trouble.
Motlanthe said South Africa was hoping to get a legally binding agreement during the COP17 negotiations which kick off on Monday.
"We need to ensure we don't precipitate natural disasters, we should do everything possible to mitigate them. The Kyoto protocol can come to an end and that's a good reason why there should be another endorsement. No single nation can tackle climate change, we need a coordinated effort," Motlanthe said.
"We hope that our participation in this march will go a long way in encouraging others - be they leaders in government, organised labour, business or civil society - to heed the call to walk the talk in taking action to mitigate the impacts of climate change today."
He explained that climate change carried devastating consequences and knock-on effects for people around the globe.
"Our way of life is slowly cutting away at our oxygen supply as we deplete forests, contaminate rivers and oceans, and pollute the environment without paying due regard to the negative impact greenhouse emissions has on sustainability."
On a lighter note, the Deputy President quipped that walking was a wonderful form of exercise - particularly as one grows older and it could reduce one's daily intake of pills.
The Premier said the walk was important to show that KZN can become a model of a province that is greener, cleaner and sustainable.
Several walkers wore Izimbadada sandals which are made from old rubber car tyres and is said to be an iconic symbol of recycling and grassroots innovation.
