Why the focus on nature-based solutions
Nature-based solutions are actions that work with nature to address environmental, social and economic challenges. Rather than relying only on built infrastructure, they use healthy ecosystems to provide benefits such as cleaner water, climate resilience, disaster risk reduction, biodiversity conservation and sustainable livelihoods.
The Kogelberg Biosphere is uniquely positioned to demonstrate the value of nature-based solutions. From restoring fynbos landscapes and clearing invasive alien vegetation to protecting water catchments and supporting sustainable resource use, these approaches help safeguard the natural systems that support both people and nature. By investing in healthy ecosystems today, we create long-term benefits for local communities, businesses and future generations.
FORESTRY AReas
There are around 7 000 hectares of forestry land around Elgin and Grabouw in the Kogelberg Biosphere. However, since 2018, there has not been a commercial forestry company working in the area. While the land belongs to the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), the department has concluded that they are absent landlords.
Accompanied by the huge population explosion in Grabouw over the past 10 years, there is now significant pressure on the forestry resource. Grabouw inhabitants, many who don’t have jobs, are using the forest to harvest wood and graze cattle. And there are additionally some illegal activities taking place in these areas.
Biosphere Rangers
The Kogelberg Biosphere appointed two biosphere rangers to support the protection and sustainable management of the Grabouw buffer and transition zones. The young men are from the local community who are passionate about the environment and protecting their community.
Their work includes:
* Regular patrols through forestry areas
* Environmental education programmes
* Supporting UNESCO citizen science
* Monitoring environmental compliance
* Reporting illegal activities
But the work is not without its challenges, with a number of illegal activities taking place in the forestry areas.
Our Biosphere Rangers Project Coordinator, Nomfusi Msitho, also works to reduce the negative impacts of human activities on our unique but threatened ecosystems. She does this by fostering discussions with stakeholders, raising awareness of environmental issues and advocating for sustainable practices. She brings a wealth of experience with her, having previously worked for WWF South Africa as the Marine and Coastal Community Monitor.
An Information Centre for the Biosphere
The Kogelberg Biosphere is also part of the new Grabouw Forest Information Centre, situated at the gateway to the Elgin-Grabouw trail network at the Elgin Grabouw Country Club. The centre welcomes visitors to the biosphere, connects people to world-class trails and shares the story of the biodiversity of the area.
Two Environmental Guides who are based at the centre are funded by the Kogelberg Biosphere.
This partnership project is funded by DEDAT, built by the Elgin Grabouw Cycling Academy and supported by the local community.
ESTATE AGENTS: TAKE A LOOK AT THIS TOOLKIT FOR SELLING PROPERTY IN THE KOGELBERG BIOSPHERE. It’s taken from a workshop recently organised by the Biosphere for estate agents, and provides tips on serving both people and nature when selling houses. Download here (and click on each presentation heading for more info)
Donate
We are a not-for-profit company and a public benefit organisation. All funds raised therefore go to meeting our motto: Nature for Life.
We can provide 18A tax exemption certificates to donors.
For more information, contact admin@kogelbergbiosphere.org.za
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What’s one word that this year captures summer in the Overberg – and also across the Western Cape? Wildfires must be a top contender.
Biosphere Living
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