Customer Background

The Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site is a scientific treasure chest of evidence of human and cultural evolution. The Sterkfontein Caves, situated some 50 kilometres north-west of Johannesburg, is the most famous of the 13 excavated fossil sites in the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site and contains a superbly preserved record of the stages in the evolution of humankind over the past four million years.

The Sterkfontein and Environs 47,000 hectare site, in near pristine condition, is also home to a diversity of birds, animals and plants – some of which are rare or endangered.  The Sterkfontein Visitor Centre, designed to blend into the unspoilt natural landscape, is situated  among indigenous grassland which gives way to plants and trees concentrated towards the top of the koppie where the main cave lies. The cave-like complex is signposted with a 20 metre tall concrete monolith, the visitors centre houses an extraordinary hominin exhibition hall with highly informative displays, a 128-seat auditorium, a charming souvenir shop and a restaurant offering spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.

For a memorable and informative experience, you can also take in a guided tour of the caves themselves, which descend 60 metres below the ground. For further tourism information on the Sterkfontein Caves go to www.maropeng.co.za

(courtesy of www.cradleofhumankind.co.za)

Waste Water Challenge

The original designed reed bed for the Sterkfontein Visitor Centre was not functioning, resulting in sewage seeping through the surface of the soil and slowly making its way into the underground water aqueduct, which has a negative impact on the caves.

Sewage Treatment Solution

Designed, manufactured and installed a 20-cube Waste Water Treatment (WWT) plant at the Sterkfontein Visitor Centre, where the effluent is used to irrigate the lawns and gardens. Leon and his team are proud to have been part of this solution.