Page 25 - Landscape-Issue147

FEATURE

ROOIBOS FARMING AND

BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION

South Africa is experiencing significant biodiversity loss, primarily due to habitat
degradation. This poses a serious threat to the nation’s rich biodiversity, but farmers

are showing that sustainable agriculture and conservation can go hand in hand.

n response to these challenges, the
Rooibos industry has demonstrated
Ihow sustainable farming practices
can protect endangered species, restore
natural habitats and contribute to global
efforts to curb biodiversity loss.
Many Rooibos farmers are
implementing measures to restore and
protect the unique biodiversity of the
Cederberg region. This includes habitat
restoration, conservation of indigenous
plant species and the protection of
endangered wildlife, such as the Cape
leopard. This animal is a secretive predator
roaming the mountains of the Western
Cape and faces ongoing habitat loss due
to human encroachment and agricultural
expansion. While its survival remains
under threat, some Rooibos farmers, in
collaboration with conservation groups,
are taking steps to support its protection.
Some farms have designated portions of
their land as conservation areas, helping
to minimise human impact and maintain The Cape Leopard, an endangered species, is protected by the Cape Leopard Trust through conservation efforts
natural prey populations, contributing to aimed at preserving its shrinking habitat. Photo: Cape Leopard Trust
efforts to safeguard this elusive species.
Similar efforts are underway to restore
the Clanwilliam Cedar (Widdringtonia
cedarbergensis), a critically endangered
tree species endemic to the Cederberg.
Once abundant, these trees have suffered
from over-exploitation and climate
change, resulting in a 90% decline in
numbers. Rooibos farmers participating
in rehabilitation projects are assisting in
reforesting areas with these iconic trees,
contributing to the restoration of the
region’s unique fynbos ecosystem.
Dawie Burger, MD of Sustainable
Cedar, believes the Rooibos industry can
play a significant role in restoring the
critically endangered Clanwilliam Cedar
in the Cederberg Wilderness area. He says
that revitalising the Cedar is essential
for preserving the region’s unique
biodiversity. While some Rooibos farmers
have joined conservation efforts, broader
participation is crucial. Expanding
collaboration would not only support
environmental sustainability, but also
uplift local communities, demonstrating
how agriculture and conservation can
work hand in hand.
Monique Ruthenberg, CapeNature
conservation manager for the Cederberg The Clanwilliam Cedar (Widdringtonia cederbergensis) is a critically endangered tree species native to the
Complex, says the collaboration between Cederberg region.

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