South Africa is a country rich in natural resources and biodiversity, it is the smallest Floral Kingdom on the planet covering an area of 46,000 square kilometers, which is only about 0.5% of the total land area of Africa, but contains 20% of the country’s indigenous plants. There are approximately 9,600 plant species in South Africa, over 6,000 of these occur nowhere else in the world.
Along with great biodiversity, minerals are the most plentiful resource with more than 55 different minerals mined during 2001. Currently, S.A. is the world’s largest producer of platinum, the third largest producer of gold and a significant producer of diamonds, coal and iron ore. Many other minerals such as andalusite (aluminum-silicate), chromium, zinc and uranium are largely produced, mainly for export. Mining operations can greatly affect the land and biodiversity around them. The main environmental impacts of mining are air and water pollution, soil erosion and siltation of wetlands. The mining industry must adhere to strict environmental policies regarding water and land use in an attempt to minimize its environmental impact while maintaining profitability and worker safety.
South African native timber resources are minimal, yet S.A. is a major producer of pulp and paper products. Almost all wood products are produced from managed forests of non-indigenous trees, mainly pine and eucalyptus. Pine trees grow rapidly in S.A., it takes only 14 to 16 years to harvest for pulp, as opposed to almost 100 years in the Northern Hemisphere. Eucalyptus is ready for harvest in 7 to 11 years. These are almost all replanted as soon as they’re cut, allowing for continuous, rapid production. Transportation costs are high for timber, and make up 30 to 40 percent of the delivered cost. Water consumption is also an issue, non-native trees consume larger amounts of water than natives, reducing the downstream water supply. Non-native trees and plantation forestry also disturb natural biodiversity. This has prompted the government to require permits for all managed forestry, with strict water use guidelines in place.
Water is the least abundant resource in South Africa. The annual rainfall is about 17 inches (450mm) with surface runoff making up 80% of the water supply. (The global average rainfall is almost 34 inches.) High evaporation rates and prolonged drought often add to water stress. This water must supply not only the people of S.A., but its industries as well, including forestry and agriculture. S.A. is currently working to improve its water transport infrastructure and sanitation practices to rural areas.
Grass and mud are the two most abundant and inexpensive natural resources in South Africa as far as building materials are concerned. Many areas of S.A. have natural reserves of clay. Mud brick homes are easily constructed and the mud can be strengthened by adding small amounts of Portland cement to the mix, resulting in a stronger, longer lasting structure. Wood or metal is needed only for roofing materials or second storey flooring, reducing building costs.
Attempting to preserve biodiversity and natural beauty, S.A. has developed a Biodiversity Strategy to preserve the natural resources of the Cape, and Cape Town is working on a Spatial Development Plan that will allow for the city’s growth while maintaining the environment and preventing urban sprawl as much as possible. The plan focuses on sustainability and includes everything from development edges to mass transit plans. More detailed information can be found at http://www.capetown.gov.za/en/sdf/Pages/default.aspx.
Growth and development cannot be avoided, with proper land management, urban densification and sustainable building practices, many of the natural resources and biodiversity of the Cape can be maintained and preserved for future generations, while providing an environment where its residents can continue grow and prosper.
