Primedia Broadcasting cutting the hot air

On Thursday 11 March 2010, Talk Radio 702 co-hosted the inaugural Climate Change Leadership Awards (CCLA), designed to celebrate South African businesses, organisations and individuals who are taking positive, proactive steps towards combating change.

Decreasing carbon footprint

When Primedia signed on to be the media partner on the CCLAs, a carbon audit was commissioned for the whole company, which includes Primedia Broadcasting's four stations - Talk Radio 702, 567 CapeTalk, 94.7 Highveld Stereo and 94.5 Kfm. The findings were shared with listeners in the hope that these experiences and learning will encourage others to make changes in their lives and companies. The broadcaster has also committed to decreasing its carbon footprint in various, measurable ways within the year.

"As responsible corporate citizens, we feel that it is the right thing to do," said Primedia Broadcasting CEO, Terry Volkwyn. "There are also economic incentives - by saving electricity, paper and minimising waste we're cutting costs, which will impact on profits," she added. Volkwyn was named a Green Champion at the CCLA ceremony.

More green awards

On Friday 12 March, two of the group's on-air personalities were recognised for their work to improve the environment.

At the Johannesburg City Parks Environmental Awards, 94.7 Highveld Stereo's Graeme Joffe was honoured with a Chairperson's Recognition Award for his contribution towards parks in the townships. He is responsible for setting up big-screen TVs at various parks in areas like Ivory Park, Diepkloof and Orange Farm. These parks will be freely accessible to all to come together to watch sporting events in a safe environment.

Talk Radio 702's breakfast show host, John Robbie was also given a Chairperson's Recognition Award, for his balanced coverage of greening issues - dealing with both the good and the bad. Robbie was one of five members of the media to be honoured in this regard.

"As a responsible media company, we are in a position to educate our listeners on issues. It makes me very proud to know that our presenters are using their platforms to make a difference on this crucial issue of climate change," concluded Volkwyn.