Amidst the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant ecosystems of South Africa lies a treasure trove of biodiversity, teeming with unique species found nowhere else on Earth. From the rugged mountains to the sprawling savannas, South Africa's natural heritage captivates the hearts and minds of conservationists worldwide. In an inspiring display of dedication, the country is home to an array of exceptional organisations, steadfastly working towards the preservation of this rich biodiversity.

In response, a collective of remarkable organisations has emerged, 25 of which we celebrate in this article, spanning the urban, marine, species, agricultural, and pollinator biodiversity sectors. Their tireless efforts combine scientific expertise, community engagement, and innovative solutions to safeguard South Africa's natural heritage for generations to come.

South Africa boasts an astonishing wealth of biodiversity, with approximately 10% of the world's known plant species, 7% of its reptile, bird, and mammal species, and 15% of the world’s marine species residing within its borders. The country's diverse ecosystems encompass everything from iconic wildlife, such as the majestic African elephant and elusive black rhino, to delicate floral marvels like the fynbos and succulent Karoo. However, this natural wonderland faces numerous challenges, including habitat loss, pollution, and the impact of climate change.

By supporting these organisations, we can all play a part in protecting the diverse tapestry of life that makes South Africa truly exceptional. Whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading awareness, together, we can make a difference, ensuring that South Africa's biodiversity continues to flourish, providing a haven for both wildlife and humanity. Let us celebrate the remarkable achievements of these organisations and rally behind them, as custodians of our natural heritage, in the pursuit of a sustainable future for all.

URBAN BIODIVERSITY

Urban biodiversity encompasses the diverse range of living organisms, including their genetic diversity, and the multiplicity of habitats found in and around densely populated areas. Its conservation is crucial for the maintenance of vital ecosystem services that benefit human communities. The role of cities in conserving biodiversity is critical, not only for preservation purposes but also because the ecosystem services provided by biodiversity and vegetation are necessary for the well-being of urban residents. Urban biodiversity offers a range of benefits to the environment, including absorbing and dispersing noise pollution, mitigating the heat island effect, summoning more biodiversity, and absorbing air pollutants. As urbanisation continues to expand, it is imperative to restore such biodiversity, as it is a fundamental necessity for cities to flourish and achieve sustainability in environmental, social, and economic domains.

UrbanBetter

UrbanBetter is a collaborative learning and advocacy platform that mobilises individuals, communities, and organisations to create healthy, sustainable urban environments. This Africa-led global movement envisions every citizen as a custodian of planetary health with the ability to aspire, inspire and work together for access to healthy and sustainable choices.

UrbanBetter promotes shared learning of promising urban health practices and facilitates knowledge exchange to equip change agents with the necessary tools. Their impactful blogs and social media campaigns raise awareness of the importance of urban environments for health and activate youth as key drivers of positive change for healthy and sustainable cities. With their dedication and passion for creating better urban environments, UrbanBetter is transforming the way people view and interact with their cities.

Young Urbanists South Africa

Young Urbanists is a non-profit organisation that seeks to empower young people to actively participate in the design of their cities, with the aim of creating more inclusive public spaces. The community targets students and early career professionals who are interested in their city and want to play a more active role in shaping its future. Young Urbanists achieves its objectives through social, educational, and advocacy events, which bring together individuals with a passion for cities.

The organisation's ultimate goal is to address the shortcomings of apartheid spatial planning, which marginalised the majority of the population from urban opportunities, and continues to manifest today through car-centric urban planning. Roland Postma, the coordinator of Young Urbanists South Africa, highlights the unique opportunity presented by city and public space design to tackle crises related to health, transportation, access to economic opportunities, and environmental sustainability, including climate change and biodiversity loss. By mobilising the next generation of urban leaders, Young Urbanists is building a brighter and more equitable future for cities.

Our Future Cities

In the pursuit of better cities tomorrow, Our Future Cities emerges as an influential urbanism practice, consultancy, and think tank. Guided by a compelling manifesto, this visionary organisation, led by esteemed urbanist and CEO Rashiq Fataar, brings together diverse experts from various disciplines, united by their shared passion for addressing urban challenges. They are the vanguards shaping the future of cities, collaborating with governments, businesses, knowledge institutions, and communities to effect profound and lasting change.

Embedded within their ethos is the invaluable element of foresight, ensuring they remain at the forefront of innovation. Their holistic approach transcends disciplines, dimensions, and scales, recognising that profound ideas and novel solutions must intertwine seamlessly. Undeterred by transient buzzwords and fads, they instead commit themselves to progress through a harmonious blend of incremental steps and transformative leaps. Ultimately, they strive to transform spaces, systems, and policies, cognisant that the future of our planet is inextricably linked to the future of our cities and towns. Their unwavering pursuit? Sustainable, equitable cities that are not only functional, but also exhilarating and cherished by their inhabitants.

Urban Harvest

Urban Harvest is a trailblazing provider of professional food gardening services, offering a comprehensive range of expertise from design to harvest. Their unwavering commitment lies in crafting stunning, ecologically vibrant spaces that not only enrich the soil and plants but also nurture people's well-being. With a remarkable legacy since their establishment in 2006, Urban Harvest has spearheaded the edible garden service movement in South Africa. They take immense pride in having installed and maintained over 500 extraordinary and exceptionally fruitful food gardens, extending their benefits to individuals from diverse backgrounds.

At Urban Harvest, each garden holds a special place in their heart, ensuring meticulous design and utilising only the finest resources available. Their dedicated team possesses an acute eye for detail and maintains constant communication to ensure clients' utmost satisfaction throughout the garden's progression, always accompanied by a warm smile. Believing in the transformative power of collaborative efforts between humans and nature, Urban Harvest strives to foster abundant supplies of healthy, organic, and locally grown food in communities. By rekindling traditional values and cultivating a profound reverence for the Earth, they actively contribute to restoring a harmonious balance in people's lives.

The Green Building Council of South Africa

The Green Building Council of South Africa (GBCSA) is an organisation dedicated to transforming the built environment for the betterment of both people and the planet. Their passionate and collaborative approach brings together a membership community across the commercial, residential and public sectors to ensure environmentally sustainable building practices. With a focus on driving competitive, viable and professional membership advantages, the GBCSA's affiliations provide access to a community of experts both locally and internationally.

As a proud member of the World Green Building Council, they create a platform for advocacy, training and certification. The GBCSA's team of industry experts is dedicated to supporting its growing membership platform with innovative solutions and tools. Together, they strive to drive influence, change and opportunity through collaboration. Located in Observatory at Black River Park, Cape Town, the GBCSA's office showcases their commitment to the cause with its 4-star Interiors rating, which was made possible with the support of the Cape Town Office Sponsors.

MARINE BIODIVERSITY

Marine biodiversity involves the vast array of plant and animal life inhabiting the ocean, from minuscule microorganisms to majestic whales and intricate coral reefs. It plays a crucial role in sustaining our planet's economic, social, and environmental welfare, making it an essential component of sustainable development. With over 90% of the world's habitable space located in the ocean, it is a critical repository of biodiversity, housing an estimated 250,000 known species with countless others yet to be discovered. The ocean provides half of the Earth's oxygen and absorbs 26% of anthropogenic carbon dioxide emissions, making it and the life therein an essential component of a healthy, functioning planet.

Lewis Pugh Foundation

The Lewis Pugh Foundation takes decisive action to safeguard the oceans, working towards a sustainable future. The foundation's campaigns are results-oriented, aimed at making a tangible difference. By bringing together NGOs, governments, scientific institutions, and citizens from all over the world, the foundation creates a united front to achieve a common goal. To date, the foundation has helped to protect over 2.2 million km² of ocean.

The Foundation's work is driven by the belief that the oceans have value in and of themselves, and that protecting them from human abuse and exploitation is essential for the well-being of all life on Earth. With Lewis Pugh's unique brand of environmental diplomacy, the Foundation is working towards a goal of protecting 30% of the world's oceans by 2030.

SANCCOB

SANCCOB, a registered non-profit organisation, has been rescuing and rehabilitating ill, injured, abandoned and oiled seabirds, especially endangered species like the African penguin, since 1968. With a mission to reverse the decline of seabird populations, the organisation works closely with colony managers to identify birds in need of care in the wild and bring them to one of their two centres in South Africa. SANCCOB's services include rescue, rehabilitation, chick rearing, oiled wildlife, education, training and research.

The organisation was founded by Althea Louise Burman Westphal, who set up a temporary station at her home in Claremont to treat oiled penguins in the late 1960s. Althea's efforts in seabird conservation continued for decades, and she was eventually made Honorary Life President. SANCCOB achieved its first milestone in December 1969, when the collection of penguin eggs on the islands was banned at a conference in the Kruger National Park. Today, SANCCOB continues to make a significant impact on the conservation of seabirds in South Africa and beyond.

Sustainable Seas Trust

The Sustainable Seas Trust (SST) is a science-based Non-Profit Organisation (NPO) that aims to safeguard Africa's marine resources for the benefit of its inhabitants. By supporting and connecting communities through research, education, and enterprise development, SST raises awareness about the pressing issues of ocean conservation and plastic pollution across the continent.

SST fosters networks to promote the sharing of information and support focused on waste management, and through its events and projects like the African Marine Waste Network, Hope Spots, and Marine Education, it brings together like-minded individuals to address plastic waste management in Africa. SST envisions clean, healthy, and sustainable seas with thriving communities living alongside them. Their mission centres around cultivating a diverse network of stakeholders in the conservation and waste-management sectors, facilitating the adoption of best practices to protect Africa's seas and proactively manage waste at its source—land.

Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation

Founded in 2018 by the Two Oceans Aquarium, the Foundation is a registered non-profit and public benefit organisation dedicated to nurturing a profound connection with and safeguarding our precious ocean and natural world. The Foundation is unwavering in its pursuit of excellence and actively promotes conservation, awareness, research, and education. By offering exceptional marine education programmes meticulously aligned with curricula, the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation empowers adults to participate in initiatives that promote ocean sustainability.

At the forefront of conservation, the Foundation plays a pivotal role in protecting five of the seven marine sea turtle species. It collaborates extensively on initiatives concerning marine animal welfare and conducts groundbreaking research projects in partnership with esteemed tertiary institutions and conservation organisations. Guided by an ambitious vision, the Foundation seeks to unite humanity with the boundless wonders of the ocean. Through flourishing partnerships, the Foundation's impact extends far beyond Cape Town's V&A Waterfront, reaching along the extensive coastline of South Africa.

SOSF Shark Education Centre

The Save Our Seas Foundation Shark Education Centre is an exceptional destination connecting people to the wonders of the ocean through immersive educational programmes centred around sharks and local marine ecosystems. Nestled on the stunning shores of False Bay in Cape Town, South Africa, this remarkable centre offers an unparalleled experience, overlooking the vast ocean and situated within the remarkable Dalebrook Marine Protected Area. By blending education and enjoyment, the centre captures the hearts and minds of children and adults alike, engaging all their senses through state-of-the-art exhibits carefully curated for playful exploration and learning.

With a primary focus on sharks, the centre illuminates their diversity, anatomy, habitats, and vital role in the marine ecosystem. Moreover, it unveils the captivating marvels of the unique marine life thriving in and around False Bay, employing sharks as gateways to a broader understanding of our oceans. Welcoming school groups, outreach events, holiday clubs, and marine awareness camps, the centre also invites the general public to discover its captivating displays. Their ultimate aim is to disseminate marine education and conservation messages far and wide, inspiring a genuine commitment to the well-being of sharks and their oceanic homes.

SPECIES BIODIVERSITY

The Earth is home to an incredible array of living organisms, encompassing plants, animals, fungi, and bacteria, better known as species biodiversity. While scientists estimate that there are approximately 8.7 million different species in existence, only 1.2 million have been identified and studied thus far, with insects comprising the majority of these known species. In a thriving ecosystem, a diverse and balanced array of species collaborates to sustain and preserve the natural order. Each species relies on others, directly or indirectly, within an ecosystem, emphasising the importance of preserving high species diversity to foster a more efficient, productive, and sustainable ecological equilibrium.

World Animal Protection

World Animal Protection (WAP) is a renowned organisation committed to combating animal cruelty and alleviating suffering. Throughout its remarkable journey, the organisation has flourished in both size and influence, elevating the prominence of animal welfare worldwide. With a mission to forge a better world for animals, WAP remains at the forefront of change. Their endeavours span various spheres from advocating for animals to occupy a prominent position on the global agenda to inspiring individuals to effect positive transformations in animals' lives.

At WAP, every campaign, decision, and aspiration centres on the animal's story. By fostering widespread comprehension of animals' perspectives, the organisation ensures their wellbeing becomes the focal point. From liberating farmed animals from cruel confinement systems to safeguarding wild animals' freedom, their dedication yields tangible results. Notably, through the mobilisation of a vibrant global network, WAP has successfully influenced major brands, such as Expedia and Trip Advisor to discontinue the sale of wildlife experiences that involve cruelty. Moreover, by empowering people to champion animal protection, the organisation cultivates a groundswell of advocates tirelessly striving to eradicate animal cruelty. Ultimately, WAP envisions a world where the wellbeing of all animals is safeguarded through the collective efforts of compassionate individuals.

Table Mountain Fund

The Table Mountain Fund (TMF) is an esteemed organisation dedicated to safeguarding and reviving the unspoiled splendour of Table Mountain and the diverse biodiversity found within the magnificent Cape Floral Kingdom. Spearheaded by Sir Edmund Hillary, this establishment serves as a capital Conservation Trust Fund, channelling resources towards the development and financing of projects aimed at preserving and restoring the renowned natural heritage of the Cape, the Fynbos.

Since its inception, The TMF has invested a staggering R100 million in over 350 projects. These projects encompass a broad spectrum of conservation efforts, ranging from purchasing vital conservation land and promoting sustainable land management practices to financing applied research and supporting civil society in implementing innovative conservation initiatives in high-value conservation areas. The Table Mountain Fund is also involved in several programmes that are designed to achieve specific conservation goals, namely the Pride Programme, the Prosperity Programme, the Care Programme, and the Fynbos Forever Programme.

SANBI

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is an esteemed institution that spearheads South Africa's journey towards sustainable development. SANBI serves as a gateway to invaluable biodiversity data, while also generating knowledge and information critical to our understanding of nature. With a strong focus on capacity building, SANBI empowers individuals and communities through insightful training initiatives and offers expert policy advice, strategically guiding decision-making processes.

SANBI's contributions extend far beyond academia. By showcasing and conserving biodiversity within its renowned national botanical and zoological gardens, SANBI cultivates a profound appreciation for the natural world. Moreover, the institute actively engages in ecosystem restoration and rehabilitation efforts, nurturing the revival of delicate ecosystems. Recognised internationally as a beacon of excellence, SANBI serves as a vital link connecting science, knowledge, policy, and implementation. Through its unwavering dedication, SANBI endeavours to enhance the understanding, management, conservation, and protection of our biological resources.

Endangered Wildlife Trust

The Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) is a renowned non-profit dedicated to safeguarding the natural heritage of southern and East Africa. Guided by its commitment to protect threatened species and ecosystems, the organisation focuses on three fundamental strategic imperatives: saving species, conserving habitats, and benefiting people. These overarching pillars of conservation impact form the foundation for the EWT's work, bolstered by six high-level goals. Five of these goals directly contribute to the organisation's conservation efforts, while the sixth goal highlights its leadership role within the broader conservation sector.

With a diverse team spread across southern and East Africa, the EWT collaborates with businesses, communities, and government entities. Recognised for its expertise in conservation research, community engagement, livelihood support, and training, the organisation employs innovative approaches to minimise human-wildlife conflict, monitor endangered species, and safeguard habitats for both animals and people. The EWT envisions a healthy planet and an equitable world that values and sustains the diversity of all life, working tirelessly towards this vision as it strives to conserve threatened species and ecosystems in southern and East Africa.

HERD Trust

HERD (Hoedspruit Elephant Rehabilitation and Development) Trust emerged in 2021 as the culmination of an extraordinary 24 year journey, resulting in the union of the Jabulani herd, HERD Homestead operations, and the HERD Orphanage under a single umbrella name. This consolidation has enabled the organisation to access public funding, thereby ensuring the holistic well-being of their cherished elephant companions. Rooted in a heartfelt response to the profound ramifications of human-elephant conflict, the HERD Orphanage materialised in 2019 as a refuge for a mounting number of vulnerable elephant calves, providing them both rehabilitation and an embrace from an accepting, pre-existing herd.

Today, the Jabulani herd stands as a harmonious family of sixteen majestic elephants, encompassing eleven resilient orphans and five remarkable individuals birthed within the herd over a decade ago. The establishment of Jabulani Lodge back in 2004 has laid the foundation for sustaining the herd, with proceeds from tourism lending invaluable support to the compassionate care and meticulous stewardship of these rescued elephants. Committed to active engagement within local communities, HERD Trust endeavours to empower their immediate neighbours through education and developmental opportunities, fostering a shared commitment to safeguarding these magnificent creatures. Additionally, HERD fosters a vibrant online community, uniting a global audience in a collective pursuit of knowledge about elephants and crucial conservation endeavours.

AGRICULTURAL BIODIVERSITY

Agricultural biodiversity encompasses all aspects of biological diversity essential to food and agriculture, including those found in agro-ecosystems. It pertains to the genetic, species, and ecosystem levels of variability among animals, plants, and micro-organisms that play critical roles in sustaining agro-ecosystem functions, structures, and processes. Agricultural biodiversity results from the interplay among genetic resources, environmental conditions, and farmers' management practices, reflecting both natural selection and human ingenuity honed over generations. Conserving diverse crop varieties, recognising the detrimental effects of monoculture farming, and valuing traditional agricultural methods can help maintain agricultural biodiversity, which underpins sustainable food systems and supports human well-being.

African Centre for Biodiversity

The African Centre for Biodiversity (ACB) is committed to advancing food sovereignty and agroecology across Africa. Focused on biosafety, seed systems, and agricultural biodiversity, the ACB aims to combat inequalities and counter the corporate-industrial influence pervasive in the continent's food and agriculture systems. Recognised for its resolute opposition to the forced implementation of the Green Revolution in Africa, the ACB persistently challenges the institutional structures driving this agenda at national and regional levels.

Additionally, the ACB collaborates with partners to foster understanding and facilitate transitions to agroecological farming practices. This collaborative approach offers an alternative to the dominance of corporate interests in African seed and food systems. Through horizon scanning, research and analysis, communications, information sharing, capacity building, and advocacy, the ACB empowers civil society, farmers' organisations, women, and youth across Africa to actively engage in advocacy spaces. As a result, the ACB's efforts influence public and private discourse, leading to more inclusive, democratic, and responsive agricultural policies and implementation strategies. Ultimately, this contributes to the preservation and utilisation of agricultural biodiversity, enhancing the livelihoods and well-being of smallholder farmers throughout Africa.

Abalimi Bezekhaya

Abalimi Bezekhaya emerged as a voluntary association in 1982, gaining formal constitution in 2002, and is now led by an esteemed Management Board. With a dedicated team of sixteen passionate staff members and volunteers, Abalimi Bezekhaya works tirelessly to provide invaluable assistance to local farmers. Their comprehensive support encompasses training, affordable resources, accessible infrastructure, market access, and organisational development. Their primary objective is twofold: combating poverty by promoting sustainable, organic food production within homes and community gardens, and empowering farmers with production planning, soil infrastructure, harvest coordination, seed and seedling access, vegetable transportation, and financial services crucial for running microfarms.

Guided by a visionary outlook, Abalimi Bezekhaya seeks to empower individuals and groups from underprivileged communities in Cape Town. By fostering an understanding of the vital connection between survival, health, and environmental improvement, the organisation instils confidence, enabling the initiation, replication, and long-term sustenance of food cultivation and greening endeavours. These grassroots initiatives serve as catalysts for broader development, inspiring the formation of associations and networks that actively advocate for resources and support in both rural and urban domains.

SAOSO

The South African Organic Sector Organisation (SAOSO) thrives as a non-profit organisation devoted to fostering unity and expansion within South Africa's organic agriculture sector. Its paramount objective revolves around bringing together farmers, producers, retailers, and consumers of organic products, with a shared vision of safeguarding the future of food freedom and the natural ecology of South Africa. As a proud member of IFOAM Organics International, SAOSO is guided by four cardinal principles of organic farming: health, fairness, ecology, and care.

Recognising the imperatives of food sovereignty and sustainable development, SAOSO champions organic production practices, proven to be highly effective amidst climate change and drought. This holistic approach resonates particularly well with the vast majority of farmers who conscientiously choose ecologically-sound methods. By supporting local farmers, SAOSO contributes to the transformation of South Africa's economy, fostering a vibrant agricultural sector that paves the way for social reform and benefits all. Committed to its mandate, SAOSO actively fosters the organic sector's growth through comprehensive training programmes and value chain activities. In partnership with PGS SA, SAOSO spearheads a grassroots movement of organic farmers nationwide, nurturing food sovereignty through province-level partnerships and programmes.

PISA

PISA is an organisation driven by its unwavering dedication to propagate the principles of permaculture and regenerative agriculture in South Africa. The organisation's primary objective is to impart knowledge on permaculture design, which is essential in creating sustainable, productive, and natural systems. PISA's founding members are PRI accredited, which reinforces their commitment to the permaculture research community. PISA strives to bring the best minds in permaculture, regenerative agriculture, and other related fields from around the globe to South Africa. The organisation offers a range of courses and events featuring international experts who share their knowledge and experience with participants.

Moreover, PISA operates a permaculture/regenerative agriculture hub in East London and is keen to expand its reach to other provinces. In addition to training, PISA provides consultation services for permaculture design and earthworks. The organisation's vision and mission are to educate, consult, and offer courses related to permaculture and regenerative agriculture across South Africa. PISA's values are grounded in earth care, people care, and fair share, which are central to the organisation's ethics and guide all its activities.

Soil Scopes

SoilScopes is an agricultural-centric organisation committed to empowering farmers to prioritise soil health through innovative regenerative practices. Their mission is to restore a more natural system that yields higher-quality crops at reduced costs, thus enabling farmers to reclaim their lands' fertility. By embracing ecologically-based approaches and fostering better profit margins, SoilScopes minimises reliance on inorganic fertilisers, herbicides, pesticides, and fungicides. They believe in embracing the inherent system designed by nature for optimal plant growth while eliminating harmful and outdated practices from modern agriculture.

SoilScopes harnesses the power of the microbial world and provides invaluable insights into the management of living soil. Leveraging advanced microscope assessment tools, SoilScopes enables farmers to comprehend the intricate relationships between microbes, plants, and achieve bountiful yields. With the aid of microscope analysis, SoilScopes unravels the true drivers of crop success or failure, helping farmers make informed decisions. By granting people access to invaluable knowledge about their soil's microorganisms and conducting microbial tests, SoilScopes empowers farmers to unlock the full potential of their land.

POLLINATOR BIODIVERSITY

Pollinator biodiversity is crucial for the maintenance and promotion of biodiversity, and ultimately for sustaining life on Earth. With over 20,000 pollinating bee species and numerous other insect and vertebrate pollinators such as butterflies, beetles, bats, and so forth, pollination provides benefits that extend beyond the natural world. Their services also have a significant impact on human society, improving food security and livelihoods. In fact, “87.5% of wild plants globally (about 308,000 species) depend, at least in part, on animal pollination for fertilisation. While about 40% of global agricultural production comes from crops that depend on insect labour.”

Honey Bee Heroes

HoneyBee Heroes is an inspiring sanctuary for honeybees and education centre nestled in the heart of the Overberg region. Spearheaded by Chris Oosthuizen in early 2020, HoneyBee Heroes was established with a noble purpose: to protect the South African Capensis honeybee, support small-scale beekeepers, and raise awareness about sustainable food choices among the people of South Africa. With a steadfast commitment, HoneyBee Heroes strives to create accessible and lasting opportunities for South Africans to conserve and interact with their natural environment. At the core of their mission lies an unwavering dedication to educate and preserve South Africa's unique Cape honeybee.

Additionally, HoneyBee Heroes has partnered with Wellness Warehouse, a leading retailer of natural health and wellness products, embarking on an incredible journey together. Starting from February 2022, every jar of honey displayed on the shelves of Wellness Warehouse stores and their online emporium will bear HoneyBee Heroes' emblem, ensuring its ethical and sustainable origins within South Africa. Additionally, customers will discover a wealth of knowledge about South Africa's extraordinary honeybees, highlighting the urgent need for collective action in supporting local beekeepers and reversing the decline of these vital pollinators.

LepSoc Africa

The Lepidopterists' Society of Africa (LepSoc Africa) is a passionate group of enthusiasts committed to the preservation and research of butterflies and moths in the Afrotropical region. The society acts as a platform for individuals or groups interested in this field, disseminating information, publishing research, and coordinating awareness-raising activities for these fascinating creatures. LepSoc Africa's ultimate goal is to advance the study and conservation of Afrotropical butterflies and moths (Lepidoptera). Its publication portfolio includes peer-reviewed scientific articles as well as less technical pieces on news and events related to the subject.

LepSoc’s geographic focus is the Afrotropical zone, which includes sub-Saharan Africa and islands such as Seychelles and Madagascar. With over 4,500 species of butterfly and more than 50,000 moths, this region boasts the world's second richest concentration of these insects, surpassed only by South America. LepSoc Africa promotes interaction among its members and lepidopterists worldwide, collaborating with conservation officials and engaging with the public wherever possible. While research remains a key objective, the society increasingly prioritises conservation efforts, recognising the crucial role of preserving these delicate and beautiful species for future generations.

Bats Without Borders

Established in 2013, Bats without Borders is a non-governmental organisation founded by Rachael Cooper-Bohannon, with the aim of preserving bats, biodiversity and healthy ecosystems in the ever-changing southern African landscape. The organisation is dedicated to achieving this mission by conducting and supporting applied research that informs targeted conservation action, strengthening local capacity, and promoting a positive attitude towards bats through public engagement. Their commitments include protecting bat diversity and habitats, restoring important natural habitats through evidence-based conservation action, engaging ecologists, researchers and conservationists across Africa, inspiring people in southern Africa to appreciate and love bats, and empowering people to create more sustainable livelihood strategies.

Bats without Borders is bursting with potential in 2023 as they focus on their new Conservation Internship programme, working with communities near important bat sites, and capacity strengthening activities to support bat conservation across southern Africa. With their collaborative, evidence-based and ethical approach, the organisation is committed to advocating for policy change with key stakeholders and international partners to ensure the protection and conservation of southern Africa's natural heritage.

Birdlife South Africa

BirdLife South Africa, the only dedicated bird-conservation organisation in South Africa, is committed to the preservation and welfare of avian life across the country. Proudly affiliated with BirdLife International, BirdLife South Africa envisions a harmonious coexistence between nature and humanity, fostering equitable and sustainable living conditions. With a mission firmly rooted in scientific principles, BirdLife South Africa employs a range of evidence-based initiatives to safeguard birds, their natural habitats, and overall biodiversity. By promoting responsible and fair utilisation of natural resources, as well as cultivating an appreciation for the wonders of the natural world, the organisation strives to create lasting conservation impact.

BirdLife South Africa is steadfast in its pursuit of several key objectives. These include the prevention of species extinctions, enhancement of the conservation status of bird populations, preservation and expansion of critical sites and habitats, and the promotion of ecological sustainability through the lens of avian biodiversity. By integrating bird conservation practices into local livelihoods, the organisation endeavours to effect positive change among communities. Embracing a multifaceted approach, BirdLife South Africa undertakes regional and landscape conservation initiatives, prioritises the well-being of seabirds, fosters scientific innovation, advocates for policies supportive of bird conservation, and empowers individuals to make a difference.

Green School South Africa

Green School South Africa is an educational institution that embraces a progressive, learner-centred approach to education, focusing on equipping young minds with the tools to flourish in a rapidly evolving world. Their educational philosophy, founded on meticulous research, aims to spark a lifelong love for learning and impart the skills essential for present and future success. This distinctive vision permeates every aspect of their institution, from their eco-conscious campus and sustainable procurement practices to their environmentally friendly habits and curriculum. As the third school to join the global Green School movement, Green School South Africa shares the overarching mission of educating for sustainability through community-integrated, entrepreneurial learning in a harmonious natural setting.

Recognising the distinctive challenges that lie ahead for future generations, Green School South Africa advocates the integration of sustainability principles into their learning, fostering leadership by example. Nestled amidst awe-inspiring mountains in the verdant Paarl-Franschhoek Valley, their campus adheres to the gold standard of green design and construction—the Living Building Challenge (LBC). This commitment to regenerative building practices extends beyond achieving a zero footprint, reviving endemic flora and enriching biodiversity while nurturing vegetable gardens, fruit forests, medicinal havens, and herbal corridors. Green School South Africa actively reconnects their students with the land and food through hands-on cultivation, caring, and harvesting experiences.

As our rapidly evolving world faces the daunting challenges of habitat destruction, climate change, and species loss, a glimmer of hope emerges through the unwavering dedication of numerous biodiversity organisations. From the concrete jungles of urban landscapes to the boundless depths of marine ecosystems, these champions of nature tirelessly work to protect and restore the intricate web of life that sustains us all. Their efforts span across sectors, encompassing the preservation of species, the sustainable practices in agriculture, and the vital role of pollinators.

By weaving together their collective wisdom, scientific expertise, and community engagement, these organisations stand as beacons of inspiration, illuminating a path toward a harmonious future where nature thrives. Through collaboration, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to the preservation of biodiversity, they embody the profound potential within each of us to safeguard the irreplaceable beauty and diversity of our planet. Together, we have the power to shape a world that cherishes and protects all life, ensuring a vibrant and resilient future for generations to come.

Is anyone missing from our list? Pop us an email at hello@treeshake.com to let us know, so that we can continue celebrating South Africa’s top biodiversity organisations.

CONSERVATION CHAMPIONS: 25 BIODIVERSITY ORGANISATIONS