Where we do it
The unique Cape Floral Kingdom
The Western Cape of South Africa is home to the world’s smallest and most diverse plant kingdom on earth. The Cape Floral Kingdom (CFK) has earned international recognition as a World Heritage Site and a global biodiversity hotspot. Despite the CFK's unique global conservation status, this region is under increasing threat from expanding agricultural and urban development, the spread of invasive alien plant species, too-frequent fires and inappropriate land management activities, such as overgrazing.
Why is this project needed?
The Cape Floral Kingdom is also home to 90% of the South African wine industry, with 80% of all the remaining natural areas of the CFK situated on privately owned land. Therefore, in order to protect and manage this unique corner of the world - the private landowner's involvement and commitment to conservation efforts is of paramount importance.Biodiversity refers to all the species, ecosystems and natural processes that form the basis of life and its ability to adapt and flourish over time. When biodiversity is intact, species and ecosystems are resilient, enabling them to adapt to environmental changes. When biodiversity is lost, nature responds erratically and unpredictably, making it difficult for growers to plan production or to protect natural resources.
The BWI therefore not only focuses on protecting this area of global conservation importance, but also emphasises the appropriate management of all underpinning natural systems and resources that secure a healthy and productive farm environment and surrounding catchments.
The benefits of such a programme
- leveraging the unique biodiversity of the Cape Floral Kingdom as a competitive marketing advantage and a unique selling point.
- Free extension support from the BWI team to achieve sustainable farming methods and implement effective natural resource management.
