Abstract

Macro-ecological corridors in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Track: Conservation
Authors: Debbie Jewitt

Global change, especially land use and climate change, is a major threat to biodiversity the world over. Currently 50% of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), South Africa, has been irreversibly transformed, mainly by urban expansion, agriculture and timber plantations. KZN is a biologically diverse province due in part to a large altitudinal gradient, varied topography, geology and the convergence of tropical and temperate elements. KZN falls within the internationally recognized Maputaland-Pondoland-Albany biodiversity hotspot. Given the predicted climate change scenarios for the province, a system of macro-ecological corridors were developed for the province based on least cost pathways, to facilitate altitudinal and latitudinal movements of species. This is seen as the most cost-effective mechanism to mitigate against climate change impacts for species. The method used for the development of this product are highlighted as well as the way in which the corridors are incorporated into our planning products and strategies.