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Find out more about the community projects in our region
Friends of the Biosphere Programme: Empowering Communities for a Greener Future
Friends of the Biosphere is an initiative of the Gouritz Cluster Biosphere Reserve (GCBR). This programme supports volunteer initiatives led by passionate individuals and groups with small grants to enhance the impact of environmental projects. This funding is made...
Easy Steps to Creating Recurring Payments
Every contribution and donation to the Friends of the Biosphere program helps us achieve more, protect more, and give more to our environment, biodiversity, and planet! None of this would be possible without our amazing Heroes—and of course, our FRIENDS who take on...
The Power of Citizen Science: How Everyday People are Changing the World
Citizen science is changing the way we gather data, make discoveries, and tackle global challenges. Thanks to advances in technology and the widespread use of smartphones, everyday people now have the opportunity to contribute to scientific research in ways that were...
World Volunteer Day: Celebrating the Power of Giving Back
Every year, on the 5th of December, people all over the world come together to celebrate World Volunteer Day—a day dedicated to recognising the amazing work volunteers do everywhere. Whether it’s helping out during a natural disaster, planting trees, teaching...
Bug Hotel: A Fun and Eco-Friendly Way to Support Wildlife
If you're looking for a simple way to make your garden more eco-friendly and help support local insect activity, creating a bug hotel, also known as an insect hotel, could be the perfect project! Bug hotels provide a safe haven for a variety of insects, including bees...
Ditching Plastic: Simple Steps to a Greener Home and Lifestyle
Plastic is everywhere! According to Statista, 348 million tons of plastic are produced globally each year, with only about 30% being recycled. The negative impact of plastic pollution affects wildlife and poses long-term health risks for humans. Here are some simple...
Easy Ways to Implement Sustainable Practices in Your Home
We all know the daunting feeling that comes from thinking about sustainability and what we as individuals can do to create a more sustainable future. It isn’t always easy to know where to start. The important thing is to find what works for you and find how you can...
De Doornkraal Vinotel and Aan’t Vette Wine Estate: Supporting Conservation as Friends of the Biosphere
A Heritage of Hospitality: De Doornkraal Vinotel In Riversdale along the Garden Route, De Doornkraal Vinotel blends historical charm with modern luxury. The boutique hotel, part of the De Doornkraal Aan't Vette Wine Estate, occupies a main building dating back to...
Community Spirit Blooms: Great Brak River Conservancy’s Mandela Day Vegetable Garden Project
Great Brak River Conservancy Supports Sustainable Food Garden @ SANTA Crèche On Mandela Day, a remarkable transformation unfolded at the Santa Crèche in the Great Brak River, thanks to the visionary efforts of the Great Brak River Conservancy together with partners...
The Wildflower: An Environmental Hero in the Community
In the heart of Riversdale, something remarkable has unfolded. The Wildflower opened its doors in February 2024, emerging as a groundbreaking addition to the vibrant local scene of sustainable living and artisanal products. Founded by the visionary Nicole Hein, this...