Project Background

Recreation and tourism are important components of the economy of the Greater Cederberg Biodiversity Corridor, offering tremendous growth potential for the future. Therefore, their development should follow the principles of responsible tourism and sustainability. This relates both to new tourism development and to established operations that may need to be realigned along more sustainable lines. There is a close connection between quality tourism products and the related issues of public awareness and education. In particular, one of the principle objectives of tourism in the GCBC is that it should lead to better informed visitors with a commitment to the conservation of the natural and cultural values.

4x4 Trails are a popular tourism product in the GCBC with 34 existing established trails. Over the past year, the 4x4 Industry and conservation sector have been exploring innovative ways of introducing best practices into the GCBC. These efforts have culminated in CapeNature, AAWDC (Western Cape), DEA&DP and SAROOF joining forces to pilot a Sustainable Use Strategy for 4x4 Industry in the GCBC.  If implemented successfully, this will be used as a model for implementation in the rest of the Western Cape.

Vision

All stakeholders of the GCBC to create and implement a self-regulating sustainable use model for the 4x4 industry that is inclusive, affordable and conserves the natural environment for future generations.

Guiding Principles

1. Commitment to conserving the threatened biodiversity of the Cape Floral Kingdom
2. Commitment to a responsible code of conduct for all 4x4 users and trail owners in the GCBC
3. Commitment to providing accredited, affordable trails managed in a sustainable manner.
4. Commitment to social upliftment of historically disadvantage communities – using local people and resources on all trails in the GCBC.

1. Implement credible sustainable use systems into all facets of the 4x4 industry operating in the GCBC.
2. Conserve the biodiversity of the Cape Floral Kingdom through the implementation of responsible guidelines and accreditation systems by all trail owners and users.
3. Facilitate employment for disadvantaged communities through trail building, trail maintenance and tourism.
4. Change the negative perceptions of the 4x4 industry into positive factual accounts of the industry making a difference to people and the environment.

1. Bridging the Divide between Conservation-, Sustainable Utilization of Biodiversity, Land-Ownership and Land Use
2. Getting all Route / Trail Owners to (where required in terms of corridor development / enforcement) to engage with- and commit to the Conservation Stewardship Program
3. Implementation of practical and effective Environmental Management Plans
4. Enforcement of rectification / rehabilitation processes where identified
5. Contribute to the development and expansion of a sustainable tourism strategy for the GCBDC