As part of the national programme, each semi-finalist was tasked with planting 10 indigenous trees at a primary school as part of their June projects.

These ladies had the urge to do more in creating awareness of mankind’s dependence on trees for oxygen. One of the semi-finalists Milanie Cilliers explains, “The Miss Earth Big 02 Challenge idea came to me when I read the phrase, ‘No trees ... No Humans’. 

"An idea like this only materializes when people believe in it and passionately work towards achieving success. I connected with two other semi-finalists; Carla Victor and Celetia Reinders and together took up our spades, held hands and turned this idea into a reality," adds Cilliers. "Planting 100 trees at Mlokotwa Dube Primary in Winterveldt was only the beginning of what we believe can turn into a national and finally an international tree planting trend. We live in an age where it is possible to reach and influence people all over the world with a touch of a button, so why not use it for the greater good of the environment? Where there is soil, we will plant trees and even after that we will find a way."

The launch saw 900 learners assisting with the planting, provided at a great discount by Inheemse Bome. These young ladies worked hard to raise the monies needed to pay the amount needed for the trees. Reinders says that she and her two fellow Miss Earth sisters wanted to do something memorable. “One of our biggest goals is to green the hearts and minds of the youth in such a way that others want to be a part of this greenvolution too. The Big 02 Challenge is an opportunity for anyone and everyone who would like to make a difference, wherever they may find themselves.”

The aim of the initiative is for schools and organisations to plant as many trees as they possibly can, because every single tree is precious. The third element and link to this trio is Carla Viktor and she shared that, “It has been through this green journey that I have created an awareness about green issues, we have empowered the youth of our communities and made a sustainable difference that will last for many years to come. 100 trees in one morning? Imagine how much we can accomplish. We say bring it on.”

“Keeping with the theme of environmental issues, we kicked off the morning with a waste management information session. It’s important for the learners to realize that looking after the environment is not an isolated event. They need to continuously have the mindset of being an eco-warrior,” said Viktor.

Together with the learners of the school, Reinders, Cilliers and Viktor managed to plant 100 indigenous trees in one hour, ending their time as Miss Earth South Africa regional semi-finalists on a high note.

The challenge is open to any organisation, business, school or individual to help Miss Earth South Africa and SANParks green our country by planting trees and encouraging others to the same.

For more information, connect with Miss Earth South Africa via Facebook and Twitter using the #theBig02challenge hashtag.