Biodiversity

Biodiversity stainability is one of the Environmental Policy directives. Rhodes University is committed to reducing its ecological footprint in terms of biodiversity and ecosystem services. RU Infrastucture and Operations Division is responsible for implementing water sustainability measures in line with the Policy. This includes: 

1. Minimise wherever possible the university’s impact on natural ecosystems.
2. Plant indigenous flora wherever possible.
3. Promote biodiversity conservation to all the university’s stakeholders.
4. Promote the reduction of the university’s ecological footprint to all stakeholders. 

What is Biodiversity?

Biological diversity refers to the variety of life. We could be speaking about a small area like a patch of forest or a stream, or a wider area such as a mountain range or river catchment, or South Africa, or the continent, or the entire planet. 

South African animal diversity and wildlife act as a drawcard for wildlife tourism, which has enormous benefits for local employment and economic wellbeing.

Value of Biodiversity

Biodiversity supports life, health and wellness:

• It is the basis of all ecosystem services - producing life-giving oxygen, water, and food

• It is a source of materials used in trade and industry

• It is a source of medical cures

• It provides resilience in the face of climate change and environmental disruptions

• It serves as a genetic 'insurance policy'

• Its beauty inspires great music and creativity.

Biodiversity Ideas

• Join the Botanical Society of SA.

• Remove IAPs with the Kowie Catchment Campaign.

• Join a gardening group.

• Plant trees.

• Remove invasive alien plants to free up ground water and sustain biodiversity.

• Encourage plant nursery retailers and supplier industries to reduce the size and number of holes in seedling bags, to conserve topsoil and save water.
  
  
• Support local farmers: buy fresh produce where possible 

Last Modified: Thu, 06 Feb 2020 16:09:02 SAST