Llewellyn Williams

As I reflect on my recent experience at the Kennilworth Racecourse Conservation Area, one unwelcome discovery stands out vividly: three disposable vapes discarded along the fence-lines. Beyond being eyesores, these seemingly innocuous items pose a significant threat to both the environment and public safety. Why? Because nestled within their sleek designs lie lithium batteries, potential harbingers of catastrophe. Lithium batteries, ubiquitous in modern electronics, are notorious for their volatile nature. When mishandled or subjected to adverse conditions, they can spontaneously combust, igniting fires with alarming speed and ferocity. The consequences are dire, particularly in areas like conservation sites where ecosystems teeter on the brink of vulnerability. Sadly, the peril isn't merely hypothetical. Across the globe, incidents of lithium battery accidents have wreaked havoc. In 2019, a recycling facility in Arizona became engulfed in flames after a lithium battery ignited, ca

Conservation Design   personifies  a  ground-breaking    methodology  that  merges design thinking with conservation strategies ,  to tackle complex environmental challenges.  T his approach emphasis es interdisciplinary collaboration  by  encourag ing  experts from various fields  of  design, architect ure, ecology , and more, to work together. This ethos  is holistic i n its problem-solving approach as i t considers not only the immediate conservation issue but  similarly  the broader context,  recognising  the intricate relations hips between ecological systems and  human activities .   One  key feature  is the promotion of creativity and innovation  as   d esign thinkers within the conservation field often employ cutting-edge technologies, sustainable materials, and unconventional strategies to address environmental issues.  Creative  thinkers   possess  the potential to  offer  imaginative  and innovative  solution s, given the opportunity .  Conservation organisations similarly h

Embarking on a seabird rehabilitation learnership at SANCCOB has been a transformative journey, immersing me in the vital work of seabird hand rearing, husbandry, and rehabilitation.  This hands-on experience has provided invaluable insights into the challenges faced by seabirds, from injuries inflicted by predation to the debilitating effects of suspected botulism. During my internship at SANCCOB, a recurring observation struck a chord - the frequent admissions of injured penguins, victims of predation, often requiring amputations, and a significant number of kelp gulls grappling with suspected botulism. These avian patients arrived weakened, their struggles evident in their inability to hold up their heads or even experiencing paralysis.  This stark reality ignited a determination to devise a practical solution. Recognising their need for comfort and support, it was necessary to embark on the creation of a padded matting solution.  This novelty was designed to offer the essential su

Imagine a serene day at the beach, with the gentle warmth of the sun on your skin and the rhythmic sound of waves lapping against the shore. Now, picture this tranquility shattered by the distressing sight of a seagull with a hook and line entangled in its mouth—a stark reminder of the consequences of irresponsible angling practices for our coastal wildlife. This was the scene I encountered recently at Strandfontein Pavilion, nestled on the southern peninsula of Cape Town, South Africa. What began as a leisurely seaside excursion swiftly transformed into a mission to aid a distressed kelp gull. With a hook embedded in its mouth and fishing line ensnared around its beak, immediate action was imperative. Responding to the urgency of the situation, I sprang into action. Despite lacking specialized bird rescue equipment, I carefully navigated the situation, prioritising the bird's safety. Keeping in mind the risk of exacerbating its injuries, I opted to carefully cut away the excess fi