Forestry Congress kicks off in Durban

Trevor Abrahams, the Secretary-General of the World Forest Conference, says the effects of climate change in South Africa is one of the key issues that will be discussed when the five-day congress gets underway in Durban this morning.

"I think the issue of climate change is certainly one that we're living in. Here in KwaZulu-Natal we're experiencing unparallel drought, we're having fires all over the world. 

"We're really seeing the effects in the fact that if you look at the popular press, you'll see reports that El Niño is likely to be the worst since 1950," he said.

This is the first time the global event's taking place on African soil. Academics, students and industry leaders in the forestry sector will come together to discuss critical issues including the local economy and food.  

(File photo)