Biodiversity assessment says SA systems under threat

AT least 34% of South Africa’s terrestrial ecosystems are under threat, confirmed Tourism Minister Marthinus van Schalkwyk in a speech to parliament recently. The minister was citing the results of the National Spatial Biodiversity Assessment, the first comprehensive evaluation of biodiversity throughout the country. The assessment has concluded that in addition to this, about 82% of South Africa’s 120 rivers are threatened, with 44% critically endangered; three of the country’s 13 groups of estuarine biodiversity are in critical danger and 12% of marine biozones, says the assessment, are under “serious threat”. Says van Schalkwyk on the initiative: “The report places us for the first time in a position of scientific authority to identify which areas of the country need the most urgent attention and protection.” The report also makes specific recommendations as to how best to link conservation with development in these threatened areas. This, says the minister, ensures sustainable conservation and community upliftment. (Natalia Thomson)