Exploring how biodiversity science informs South Africa’s decisions

The National Biodiversity Assessment (NBA) 2025 Webinar Series is nearing its conclusion, with the second last session set to explore one of the most important questions arising from the assessment: how can biodiversity science be translated into better decisions for people and nature? This ninth webinar in the series will showcase how NBA 2025 findings are informing planning, policy revision and decision-making across South Africa. Webinar 9: Using NBA 2025 for Planning, Policy Revision and Decision-Making in South Africa will examine how the findings and products of the National Biodiversity Assessment are being translated into practical tools that support environmental planning, policy development and sustainable decision-making across the country. The National Biodiversity Assessment is South Africa’s flagship assessment of the state of biodiversity and ecosystems. Produced through a collaborative effort involving more than 490 contributors from approximately 110 institutions, NBA 2025 synthesises the best available science to provide evidence that supports conservation action, policy development and national development priorities. The webinar will showcase how NBA 2025 findings are already contributing to improved decision-making across multiple sectors. Examples include informing biodiversity-sensitive land-use planning, guiding protected area expansion, supporting marine spatial planning, strengthening environmental assessment processes and contributing to national and international reporting commitments. Participants will learn how NBA products, including Biodiversity Priority Areas, Critical Biodiversity Area maps, Essential Life Support Action Areas (ELSAA), Strategic Water Source Areas and national biodiversity indicators, are being used to support government planning, environmental management and investment in nature-based solutions. The session will also highlight how the NBA contributes to major national and international policy frameworks, including South Africa’s National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan, the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, the Sustainable Development Goals and other multilateral environmental agreements. As South Africa faces increasing environmental pressures, reliable scientific information is essential for balancing development needs with biodiversity conservation. The NBA provides the evidence base needed to make informed decisions that safeguard biodiversity while supporting economic growth, water security, climate resilience and human well-being. Webinar Details Date: Friday, 12 June 2026 Time: 13:00 – 13:45 Join the webinar here The webinar forms part of SANBI’s ongoing NBA 2025 Webinar Series, which aims to unpack key findings from the assessment and demonstrate their relevance to a wide range of sectors and audiences. Whether you are involved in environmental planning, policy development, conservation, research or sustainable development, this webinar offers valuable insights into how biodiversity knowledge can support better decisions for nature and people. Join us on 12 June 2026 as we explore how NBA 2025 is helping shape a more sustainable future for South Africa.