The Gouritz Cluster Biosphere Reserve (GCBR)
Our organisation is dedicated to the conservation of the region’s rich biodiversity, and the socio-economic development and wellbeing of its people. We aim to be a catalyst for change towards solving one of our greatest challenges: the disconnect between people and nature.
Our Vision:
People and nature living in harmony
Our Mission:
Nurturing resilience in Nature and Communities
Our Values:
Integrity, respect, collaboration, innovation and sustainability.
“We champion people and nature living in harmony”
We are all aware that humanity completely depends on the natural ecosystems that support us and all other life on Earth.
2021 marks the start of the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration.
As part of a global effort, the Gouritz Cluster Biosphere Reserve focuses on restoring degraded river, wetland, mountain and thicket ecosystems.
In the GCBR, we are growing collaborations with farmers and other landowners for effective fire and wildlife management, invasive alien plant control, river and wetland management.
We also plant thousands of spekboom and employ hard working field teams that clear tons of invasive plants.
We live and work in the spectacular, globally important Cape Floral Region; partner with us to create a healthy, resilient and safe place for future generations.
What is a Biosphere Reserve?
“Created in 1971, UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB) develops the basis for the sustainable use and conservation of biological diversity and for the improvement of the relationship between people and their environment globally.”
Biosphere reserves are areas of terrestrial and coastal or marine ecosystems that are internationally recognised as being of great natural and scientific value. By formally designating these areas, UNESCO promotes harmony at the human-environment interface, through increased understanding of the environment and greater involvement of science in environmental policy development. In essence, Biosphere Reserves are living laboratories and international test sites for sustainability in the 21st century.
Get involved!
Want to get involved and join us on our projects?
Become A Member
Register your membership of the GCBR.
Become A Sponsor
Sponsorship is a ‘practical’ way of belonging to the GCBR.
Donate
You can also make once of or regular donations.
Leave a Legacy
Help us preserve a region where people live in harmony with our environment.
Volunteer
Sign up to become a volunteer today.
Shop
Apparel, clothing and merchandise in support of nature
Friends of the Biosphere
Resources
Our downloadable scientific reports, legislation and maps are open source.
Visit Our Blog
Read our latest posts and news.