In a statement, the government organization emphasized that biodiversity offsets are a viable and innovative financing mechanism for the expansion and management of protected areas. “SANParks’ collective efforts to finance and secure the future of our nation’s extraordinary biodiversity are evident in this unique opportunity to expand our network of protected areas, while driving economic development,” the statement stated.

The SANParks Biodiversity Offset Bank, the first of its kind in South Africa, offers the country the opportunity to expand and improve protected area management and help developers achieve their environmental, social, and governance objectives, while supporting the State in promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth.

SANParks’ Vision 2040 focuses on building sustainable, inclusive protected areas designed to intentionally benefit both people and the environment, the document highlights.

Its cornerstone is the development of living megascapes: large areas where conservation catalyzes social and economic development.

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