TO MAKE your signature LEGALLY COUNT with SBM, DFFE and DWS, the government requires your FULL NAME + CELL NUMBER + ADDRESS.

PLEASE TAKE - 30 seconds to fill this official form - THIS IS THE ONE THAT COUNTS - PLEASE CLICK ON THE NEXT LINK - MOST NB TO COUNT:  

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSenj-0FPXFBXU2ThxdmlqyvTKAhqIH-_lOpwMtGoKWEjtDFXA/viewform?usp=header

Your Change.org signature is still very important for showing public support, but this form is what the law needs to register you as an I&AP. Thank you for standing with Hopefield 💚

Hopefield, a tranquil and agriculturally rich area situated in the Western Cape Province of South Africa, is facing a colossal environmental threat. The proposed Phelan eFuels Project threatens to convert approximately 4000-6000 hectares of prime agricultural land into a sprawling industrial complex that includes wind and solar energy generation facilities, battery energy storage systems, and green hydrogen and eSAF production. The project is valued at a staggering 1.6GW, and 8 million litres per day+, but at what cost to our environment and heritage?

The Swartland Local Municipality and West Coast District Municipality derive much of their identity and economic resilience from their unique natural landscapes. The proposal to industrialize such a vast expanse of this area not only endangers precious agricultural resources but also poses significant risks to the critically biodiverse Cape West Coast Biosphere Reserve (CWCBR) and the local water supply.

The Cape West Coast Biosphere Reserve is an internationally recognized area known for its diverse flora and fauna, a sanctuary for various endangered species. Industrial development could lead to irreversible damage to these natural habitats, disrupting ecosystems and biodiversity that have thrived for centuries. This is about preserving our ecological heritage and protecting species that depend on this land for survival.

Moreover, Hopefield, with its reliance on prime agricultural land, faces a detrimental impact on its water resources. Large-scale industrial operations require vast quantities of water, which could deplete local resources, adversely affecting farming activities and impacting the livelihood of local communities. Already, climate change presents a challenge with water scarcity in our region; this project could exacerbate the situation.

We are not against progress or renewable energy development. However, any development should be implemented with sustainability and respect for existing ecosystems in mind. We urge Phelan eFuels to consider alternative sites for their project that would not compromise the environmental integrity of Hopefield and CWCBR.

We call on local government, environmental agencies, and stakeholders to conduct a comprehensive environmental impact assessment and engage with the community comprehensively before making any decisions that could permanently alter this treasured landscape.

Let's protect Hopefield and its precious resources. Sign this petition to demand the halt of the Phelan eFuels industrial development and ensure the sustainable future of our environment and communities.