Project Launch: ecReUse in South Africa with Tree-Planting Ceremony

Symbolic Tree Planting Marks the Launch of the ecReUse Project

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Representatives from South Africa and Germany plant a protected Coastal Red Milkwood tree to mark the symbolic start of the project. From left to right: Dr.-Ing. Manuel Krauß (ecReUse Project Coordinator, FiW e.V.), Jürgen Krogmann (Mayor, City of Oldenburg), Karsten Specht (Managing Director, Oldenburg-East Frisian Water Association), Jason Scott McDowell (Councillor, Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM)), Clara Yekiso-Morolong (Community Services, BCMM), Dr. Thorsten Kornblum (Mayor, City of Braunschweig), Daniela Behrens (Minister of the Interior and Sport, State of Lower Saxony), Princess Faku (Mayor, BCMM), Yomelela Tyali (Infrastructure Services, BCMM).  © FiW e. V.

The research project ecReUse has officially commenced in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, South Africa. Funded by the German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety, and Consumer Protection (BMUV) under the “Export Initiative Environmental Protection,” the project aims to implement technologies for water reuse and energy efficiency. The ceremonial launch was marked by the planting of a Coastal Red Milkwood tree – a symbol of sustainability and the strength of international collaboration. With innovative solutions, the initiative addresses the pressing challenges of water and energy scarcity in the region while simultaneously bolstering the agricultural sector and local industries.

The ecReUse project, focusing on water reuse and energy efficiency in wastewater treatment plants in South Africa, is officially underway. The goal is to introduce innovative technologies that enable sustainable water and energy management in Buffalo City. The ceremonial tree planting, featuring a protected Coastal Red Milkwood tree – locally known as “Umthunzi” (shade) – was attended by participants from both countries. The tree symbolizes growth and the strength of international cooperation.

Key project innovations include continuous sand filters, membrane bioreactors, and biogas production, aimed at optimizing wastewater treatment plants and enhancing water reuse. By improving resource efficiency in industry and agriculture, the project seeks to ensure long-term regional water security. The tree-planting ceremony set a promising tone for this dedicated effort to tackle water and energy scarcity challenges in the region.

For more information about the project, please visit www.ecreuse.net.