In addition, the initiative was intended to raise awareness and change mindsets about clean technology in the country, while creating opportunities for SMEs and entrepreneurs to participate in finding solutions to critical environmental and economic issues. Funded by Global Environmental Facility (GEF) and coordinated by the Department of Trade and Industry (the dti) through the National Cleaner Production Centre of SA (NCPC-SA), an agency hosted by the CSIR, Cleantech 2011 was launched as a component of the “greening of COP 17” programme of the Department of Environmental Affairs through the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO).

Entries were submitted as either breakthrough innovations or adaptive technologies in the categories of Energy Efficiency, Renewable Energy and Green Buildings. A number of local and international experts provided guidance and mentorship to the 24 semi-finalists and eight finalists to assist them in preparing for the relevant adjudication processes. The winners in each of the two tracks were announced during a gala dinner hosted at COP 17, attended by some 300 high-ranking representatives from local and international government and private sector institutions. Speakers included the Minister of the Department of Trade and Industry, Dr Rob Davies; the Minister of the Department of Energy, Ms Dipuo Peters; the Minister of the Department of Science and Technology, Mrs Naledi Pandor; the CEO of GEF, Mrs Monique Barbut; the director general of UNIDO, Dr Kandeh Yumkella; and the Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, Dr Zweli Mkhize. The finalists also had an opportunity to present their ideas to the audience, demonstrating the level and depth of innovative thinking among green SMEs and entrepreneurs in South Africa.

Minister Davies announced that the dti, through the NCPC-SA, intends taking the SA Cleantech initiative forward, in collaboration with other South African government departments and interested parties both locally and internationally. Important objectives will remain the promotion of SME development and job creation as important contributors to industrial efficiency and competitiveness.

WINNERS

Enquiries: Tel.: 012 841 4168 (Pretoria); 021 658 3983 (Cape Town) or 031 242 2365 (Durban)