Kruger to Canyons Biosphere Region
In the Biosphere Region, CRIDA helped identify climate change impacts on water resources. Adaptation pathways were identified for three priority catchments in the K2C Biosphere: Blyde, Sabie/Sand, and Upper Letaba. These will support decision-making by local governments and water managers.
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The Kruger to Canyons Biosphere Region (K2C BR) in northeastern South Africa spans Limpopo and Mpumalanga. It features rich biodiversity, diverse topography, and cultural heritage, including Kruger National Park and Blyde River Canyon. K2C supports vital river catchments, providing water, biodiversity, and climate adaptation services for local livelihoods.
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A qualitative approach was used to identify adaptation pathways for the K2C Biosphere, focusing on feasible interventions for local implementation. This process was carried out in two steps: first, an analysis of various interventions was conducted to assess their potential feasibility for the landscape. Second, the most feasible options were prioritized for each catchment area. The prioritization was based on a scoring matrix that evaluated interventions on criteria such as economic feasibility, environmental sustainability, ease of implementation, provision of multiple benefits, and low risk of negative outcomes. Each criterion was scored using a color-coded system, with a total possible score of 15. High-scoring interventions were considered more likely to be effective, sustainable, and beneficial within the K2C Biosphere.
Outcomes
The top priority interventions for the Kruger to Canyons (K2C) Biosphere emphasize strategies to boost ecosystem resilience, improve water management and governance, and promote sustainable development. Key nature-based solutions include removing invasive species, restoring wetlands and rivers, and managing rangelands sustainably. Land protection through legal and physical measures helps preserve essential habitats, while interventions like rainwater harvesting and waste management aim to enhance water availability and reduce pollution. The scoring matrix also underscores the importance of effective water governance in catchments.
Water governance and improved allocation emerge as a key priority across all catchments, emphasizing the need for effective management of water resources and collaboration with local authorities. Citizen science and community awareness initiatives play a crucial role by engaging local communities in monitoring and managing natural resources. This involvement increases awareness of climate change impacts and fosters stewardship. Additionally, including citizens in data collection enhances environmental management with broader insights, supporting adaptive strategies.
The intervention matrix for the Kruger to Canyons Biosphere outlines strategies for climate adaptation and mitigation across catchments. It emphasizes context-specific actions, from short-term initiatives like invasive species removal to long-term solutions such as agroforestry. Successful implementation requires strong governance, sustainable financing, and community involvement to promote ecological, economic, and social benefits.