The role of the Environmental Monitoring Group (EMG) to inhibit land degradation: The case of the Namakwa District Municipality, Northern Cape Province

Abstract

Land degradation has been negatively impacting the environment for a long time and the effects also affect society and the economy. Therefore, due to the impact it has on the environment, there is a need to prevent the effects from further damaging the environment. In South Africa, land degradation is common, especially the Northern Cape Province and other areas with dry climatic and mountainous conditions. The effects of land degradation also drew the attention of NGOs, such as the Environmental Monitoring Group (EMG). The NGO took the initiative to attempt to inhibit land degradation by implementing new farming techniques to enhance a sustainable environment. As time went on the Department of Agriculture in the Northern Cape Province requested the NGO to come to Namakwa District Municipality. The purpose of inviting the NGO to the district was that the NGO should educate and inform the community members and farmers of Nieuwoudtville and Soebatsfontein on sustainable farming techniques. Different literature studies have highlited that human’s actions are the main cause of land degradation. Other causes of land degradation are environmental hazards and natural features. In an effort to inhibit land degradation, the South African government passed regulatory guidelines like the National Environmental Management Act, 107 of 1998, National Forestry Act 84 of 1998 and others. All these Acts are informed by the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, Act 108 of 1996. Furthermore, the United Nations Organisation established Conventions on sustainable development whereby countries and NGOs around the World became members. At these Conventions, different strategies on sustainable development were discussed, which should be implemented in order to ensure a sustainable development.