About
Our Vision
We see the Cape West Coast Biosphere as the best international example of integrating rapid growth and change with biodiversity conservation, sustainable living and heritage preservation.
Our Mission
To conserve the landscapes, vegetation and species of the West Coast while supporting research, monitoring, education and information exchange related to local, national and global conservation and sustainable development.
The UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Model
The Cape West Coast Biosphere is structured into three interconnected zones that form the foundation of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve model. Each zone has a distinct purpose and together they demonstrate how biodiversity conservation, healthy communities and thriving economies can coexist within a shared landscape.
Core Areas
Core Areas are legally protected areas that conserve the region’s most important ecosystems, habitats and species. These areas support biodiversity conservation, research and environmental monitoring. Within the Cape West Coast Biosphere, there are currently two Core Areas namely the Witzands Nature Reserve in the south and the West Coast National Park in the north.
Buffer Zones
Buffer Zones surround or adjoin the Core Areas and support activities that are compatible with conservation, including research, recreation, eco-tourism and the sustainable use of natural resources.
Transition Areas
Transition Areas are where people live, work and conduct business. This include towns, farms and industries, demonstrating how biodiversity conservation and sustainable development can be successfully integrated across the landscape.
Together, these three zones create a connected landscape that supports biodiversity conservation while enabling people and nature to thrive together. This integrated approach is the foundation of every UNESCO Biosphere.
How the CWCB is governed
The Cape West Coast Biosphere (CWCB) is registered as a Non-Profit Company (NPC). It is governed by a voluntary Board of Directors and supported by a diverse network of Stakeholders, Technical Advisors and partner organisations committed to achieving the objectives of the Biosphere.
Our Strategic Focus Areas
Our work is guided by five strategic focus areas that provide the framework for achieving our vision and mission.
1) Conservation
Protect, restore and enhance the Cape West Coast’s biodiversity, ecosystems and natural resources while safeguarding its unique cultural, historical and palaeontological heritage for future generations.
2) Sustainable Development and Planning
Promote sustainable development that supports local communities while ensuring land-use planning and economic activities conserve biodiversity and protect environmentally sensitive areas.
3) Stakeholder Interaction
Build strong partnerships through effective communication, education and collaboration to increase awareness, participation and support for the Cape West Coast Biosphere.
4) Research, Monitoring, Education and Capacity Building
Support research, monitoring and environmental education to improve understanding of the region, inform decision-making and strengthen knowledge and skills among communities and stakeholders.
5) Operational and Institutional Development
Strengthen the organisation through effective governance, sustainable funding, strategic partnerships and adaptive management to ensure the long-term success of the Cape West Coast Biosphere.
CWCB Stakeholders
Adelaide Ruiters Mining and Exploration (PTY) LTD
Bergrivier Municipality
CapeNature
City of Cape Town
Department of Agriculture
Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning
Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
Department of Water and Sanitation
Kropz Elandsfontein Phosphate Mine
Landowners Association
Regional Tourism Organisation
Saldanha Bay Municipality
SANParks – West Coast National Park
Swartland Municipality
Transnet Saldanha Bay
West Coast District Municipality
West Coast Fossil Park
