On September 21st, the world observes Zero Emissions Day, an initiative started in 2008 by Canadian environmental activist, Ken Wallace, with the aim to raise awareness, and encourage people and organizations to reduce or eliminate their carbon foot print for one day, by minimizing the use of fossil fuels, and inspire long term sustainable behaviours.
According to the recent City of Cape Town’s State of Energy and Carbon report, Transport is one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, responsible for over a third of urban carbon output in Cape Town. This Zero Emissions Day, the V&A Waterfront is shining a spotlight on its partnership with pioneer transport operator, The Green Cab, showcasing how emission-free, electric transport is already making a difference across the precinct.
As a women-owned enterprise, The Green Cab stands as a beacon of hope, resilience, and innovation in the growing electric vehicle (EV) and e-mobility sector in South Africa. Since the service launched in December 2024, the fleet of six electric mobiles, powered by the V&A Waterfront’s energy supply, has already travelled more than 21,000 kilometres, carrying over 30 000 riders since (approximately 200-500 passengers a week), saving an estimated 1,176 kilograms of CO2 emissions compared to conventional fossil-fuel alternatives.
This service is available to visitors, tenants, and residents, and runs on a fixed six-stop hop-on route connecting the Silo District, Canal Precinct, Aquarium, and Cape Town Sign, all at zero cost.
“Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do at the V&A Waterfront. Zero Emissions Day gives us an opportunity to showcase innovative partnerships like The Green Cab that drive environmental change while creating real social and economic value. Together, we’re proving that sustainable business is not only possible, but essential for the future of our community and our planet.” said V&A Waterfront Head of Public Relations, Donald Kau
But this is more than just a transport solution. The Green Cab is also a social enterprise, employing seven young women as drivers, with the goal to double that amount by the end of the year. “Through initiatives like the ‘Driving Hope Project’, the company not only tackles climate change but also addresses pressing social issues such as gender-based violence, by empowering women with financial independence and opportunity.” said Amiene van der Merwe, Managing Director of The Green Cab.
By embedding electric mobility into daily precinct life, the V&A Waterfront and The Green Cab highlight a shared vision for sustainable innovation, community impact, and economic contribution; a reminder that every journey can help reduce ecological debt.
Looking ahead, The Green Cab aims to double its fleet, extend its routes, and launch orientation tours of the precinct continuing to drive forward a vision of sustainable, inclusive mobility.
With initiatives like these, the V&A Waterfront reinforces its mission to lead shared value thinking, balancing environmental responsibility with social impact and economic growth.