Leveraging science to save species
The Science and Innovation Programme provides the evidence base that underpins BirdLife South Africa’s conservation work. We synthesise data from large-scale citizen science projects, targeted field studies and advanced analytical tools to understand where birds occur, how their populations are changing, and what pressures they face. This work is essential for identifying threatened species, prioritising key sites for protection, and supporting national and international biodiversity commitments. By translating complex data into clear, decision-ready outputs, we ensure that conservation actions are guided by the best available science and that limited resources are directed where they can have the greatest impact.
In the past few years, the work of the Policy and Advocacy Team has included a range of interventions. We frequently comment on environmental impact assessment reports when we are concerned that there could be negative impacts on birds and their habitats. We also appeal decisions to approve developments, if these decisions are based on inaccurate or inadequate information, or do not comform to enviromental laws and principles. In 2025, we partnered with SANCCOB and the Biodiversity Law Centre in litigation that led to a Court Order securing no-take zones around six key penguin colonies. These reactive measures are complemented by our proactive endeavours to promote and advise on good environmental practice through the publication of guidelines, brochures and monitoring reports.
Leveraging science to save species
The Science and Innovation Programme provides the evidence base that underpins BirdLife South Africa’s conservation work. We synthesise data from large-scale citizen science projects, targeted field studies and advanced analytical tools to understand where birds occur, how their populations are changing, and what pressures they face. This work is essential for identifying threatened species, prioritising key sites for protection, and supporting national and international biodiversity commitments. By translating complex data into clear, decision-ready outputs, we ensure that conservation actions are guided by the best available science and that limited resources are directed where they can have the greatest impact.
In the past few years, the work of the Policy and Advocacy Team has included a range of interventions. We frequently comment on environmental impact assessment reports when we are concerned that there could be negative impacts on birds and their habitats. We also appeal decisions to approve developments, if these decisions are based on inaccurate or inadequate information, or do not comform to enviromental laws and principles. In 2025, we partnered with SANCCOB and the Biodiversity Law Centre in litigation that led to a Court Order securing no-take zones around six key penguin colonies. These reactive measures are complemented by our proactive endeavours to promote and advise on good environmental practice through the publication of guidelines, brochures and monitoring reports.
No posts available at the moment
Donate towards
Citizen Science Support
