European Union’s LiveDiverse project – interplay between livelihoods and biodiversity in the South African case study area

Abstract

The interconnectedness of biodiversity and sustainable livelihoods for many societies around the world is constructed by the complexities of vulnerability and resilience. Society is faced by a plethora of challenges that include poverty reduction, health improvement, conflict resolution, biodiversity protection, retaining cultural diversity and achieving sustainable livelihoods. By understanding the interface of livelihoods and biodiversity, we can holistically assess the vulnerability of livelihoods and how this can be reduced through improved policy capacity, while at the same time conserving and husbanding biodiversity. This includes securing income for people in marginalised rural areas. In South Africa, the importance of understanding this interface is all the more critical due to the high premium placed on agriculture and resource utilisation for socio-economic development.