CHAPTER 1 Working for the Environment


Working for the Environment is a publication launched by the Department of Environmental Affairs (former Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism). It aims to inform and educate the gen- eral public in South Africa on the vital work currently being done by the government to protect the environment and alleviate poverty. This publication covers five ongoing programmes under the umbrella of the government’s Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP): the Social Responsibil- ity Programme and its Working for the Coast sub-programme, Working for Wetlands, Working for Water, and Working on Fire.


In examining environmental challenges in South Africa, it becomes clear that environmental pressures tend to occur in overlapping geographical areas. Tis tendency results in am- plified environmental threats in already disadvantaged regions


Environmental aspects


South Africa is recognized as the third most megadiverse country in the world.1


Te abundance of biodiversity found


within its borders covers an estimated 10 per cent of the world’s plant species, 7 per cent of all bird, 6 per cent of all mammal, and 5 per cent of all reptile species found on the


4


planet. Due to various causes ranging from unsustainable land use and farming practices, to invasion by alien species and climate change, South Africa’s ecosystems are under con- siderable pressure, much of which is directly or indirectly linked to poverty.


through negative feedback loops. Te four thematic papers of this publication will address the highly important work which is spearheaded by the Government of South Africa to coun- teract environmental degradation and poverty in the country.


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22