Sustainable use of biodiversity in SADC : shifting paradigms in biodiversity conservation

Abstract

All life on earth depends on biodiversity and is of international concern. Biodiversity must be conserved for future generations. The 1992 Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) recognises that biodiversity is a global resource and has an all-encompassing value extending beyond economic value. This dissertation focuses on the biodiversity found within the Southern African Development Community (SADC). Biodiversity is in decline on a global scale as well as locally within the SADC sub-region. This study discusses the importance of biodiversity on a global scale as well the importance of biodiversity to the SADC sub-region. The SADC is very rich in biodiversity. However there are certain influences that impact the conservation of biodiversity within the SADC. This study explores some of these influences. One of the influences on the conservation of biodiversity is the legal framework that relates to biodiversity. The SADC nations and citizens depend greatly on biodiversity. Biodiversity contributes largely to gross domestic products and income within the SADC sub-region. The sustainable use of biodiversity is therefore a necessity. The SADC legal framework relating to biodiversity will be examined to determine to what extent the framework provide for the sustainable use of biodiversity. The evolution of the sustainable use of biodiversity is presented. The 2004 Addis Ababa principles and guidelines for the sustainable use of biodiversity principles and guidelines will serve as a reference point when the SADC legal framework relating to biodiversity is examined. After examining the SADC legal framework relating to biodiversity it is found that SADC legal framework does not provide for the sustainable use of biodiversity to the extent that it should. This study presents conclusions and provides recommendations that may assist the SADC legal framework in regulating and incorporating the sustainable use of biodiversity into the legal framework that relates to biodiversity.