Local business supporting local initiatives
Friends of the Biosphere
We know that there are many individuals and groups of people doing voluntary work for the environment, and that with a bit of financial support they could make an even greater impact. We also know that there are many businesses who want to give back to their community.
The Friends of the Biosphere Programme connects these two groups in a structured and meaningful way; empowering communities to take ownership of their environmental future with support from the business sector. Together we can make a positive impact and help our towns flourish!
“Heroes” are the local businesses with heart, the ones who give back to their communities by making financial contributions to enable or enhance our “Friends” projects taking place in their district.
If you are here, you are in a very special place!
This the Gouritz Cluster Biosphere Reserve (GCBR)
UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
This 3.2-million-hectare area has been designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve due to its major biodiversity significance to the planet.
3 global biodiversity hotspots
The only place in the world where three global biodiversity hotspots converge, namely the Cape Floristic Region, Succulent Karoo and Maputuland-Pondoland-Albany Thicket.
5 000+ indigenous plant species
Over 5 000 indigenous plant species are found in this area, many of which are rare and unique.
670+ endemic plant species
This area has at least 670 endemic plant species which cannot be found anywhere else in the world.
If you are here, you are in a very special place!
This the Gouritz Cluster Biosphere Reserve (GCBR)
UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
This 3.2-million-hectare area has been designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve due to its major biodiversity significance to the planet.
3 global biodiversity hotspots
The only place in the world where three global biodiversity hotspots converge, namely the Cape Floristic Region, Succulent Karoo and Maputuland-Pondoland-Albany Thicket.
5 000+ indigenous plant species
Over 5 000 indigenous plant species are found in this area, many of which are rare and unique.
670+ endemic plant species
This area has at least 670 endemic plant species which cannot be found anywhere else in the world.
Friends of the Biosphere
Join the movement towards a more sustainable future!
Together we can uplift our towns and take care of the special place we call home.