WWF SA awards Jackie King with Living Planet Award 2016

Dr Jackie King

As a leading aquatic ecologist in South Africa, Dr King was praised for “inspiring several generations of scientists, planners and legislators in South Africa and around the world”. Over the past four decades, she has been part of and led scientific teams working on the river flow management of many of the world’s major river systems, among them the Nile, Mekong, Indus and Okavango.

Dr King was recognised for her leading role in ensuring that aquatic ecological research led to the sustainable development and management of river systems and, in particular, her innovative and practical approaches that gave effect to improved water management in the real world.

Living Planet Conference

Dr King was one of three keynote speakers to address WWF-SA’s fourth Living Planet Conference in Sandton, Johannesburg. This year’s conference was held under the theme: “Why South Africa’s future is brighter than you think: A case for optimism.”

WWF-SA CEO Dr Morné du Plessis commented: “In a world filled with seemingly overwhelming challenges, for this year’s Living Planet Conference we decided to turn the question of sustainability on its head. It is a challenge to us all to think more positively about the changes we can make for the better of all South Africans, particularly in the quest for a more sustainable and equitable future.”

Other keynote speakers at the conference were Anglican Archbishop Thabo Makgoba and social entrepreneur Ludwick Marishane. Panellists included scenario planner Clem Sunter, environmental and social activist Tasneem Essop, WWF-SA’s Saliem Fakir (head: policy and futures unit) and Dean Muruven (programme manager: water source areas). Proceedings were facilitated by social commentator Eusebius McKaiser.

Among the issues under the spotlight on the day were food, energy and water security for South Africa in the 21st century – with the emphasis on innovative solutions in the areas of food production, water stewardship and renewable energy.

To encourage students to participate, WWF-SA also ran a #IAmTheFuture competition which offered 50 seats to students, five of whom would win a two-hour professional lunch with one of several leading South Africans who volunteered their time.