UNESCO – International recognition for the Magaliesberg

Not everyone who lives near the Magaliesberg knows what a special place this is. Last year the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) designated an area of 360,000 ha from Rustenburg to Pretoria the ‘Magaliesberg Biosphere Reserve’.

Vincent Carruthers

It is a requirement of UNESCO that biosphere reserves must have exceptional features and the Magaliesberg has these in abundance – a long, multi-cultured heritage, unique geology, outstanding biodiversity and spectacular scenery – and now we can proudly trumpet that these features have been recognised by the world.

Biosphere reserves – there are eight in South Africa and 650 worldwide – are special areas where people strive to combine two often conflicting goals: economic development and nature conservation. They do not achieve those goals with high fences or draconian laws. Instead they achieve them through research, education and the exchange of ideas – and by demonstrating that life is better without over-exploitation and ecological abuse.

Biosphere reserves throughout the world conduct projects to try and find ways of living sustainably and they all share their successes and failures with each other.

The Magaliesberg Biosphere is the newest and like all biosphere reserves in South Africa, it is managed by an independent non-profit company with a Board of Directors elected by stakeholders. The board’s job is to stimulate economic and environmental projects and maintain links with stakeholders, government and other biosphere reserves.

International recognition will help boost tourism and keep the spotlight on improving the quality of life for all who live in or visit the area.

Article by:  Vincent Carruthers

More related articles:

• Magaliesberg Biosphere
• Introducing the Magaliesberg Biosphere
• Tourism leads the way in the Magaliesberg Biosphere