Blaauwberg Nature Reserve was Awarded a Prestigious Green Coast status

The City of Cape Town's Blaauwberg Nature Reserve has achieved a remarkable milestone by receiving South Africa’s first Green Coast status in 2018, a recognition it has maintained annually since then. This accolade highlights the City’s unwavering commitment to preserving the unique flora and fauna along its stunning coastline. The Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA), which oversees the national implementation of the Green Coast Programme, presented the official Green Coast Status to the City’s Environmental Management Department for the fifth consecutive year during a special ceremony at the Two Oceans Aquarium.

Launched in 2017, the Green Coast Award is bestowed upon coastal sites that boast high biodiversity and foster community engagement in the management of these vital natural areas. The Blaauwberg Nature Reserve, spanning approximately 2,000 hectares, encompasses a breathtaking mix of coastal terrain, inland koppies, and flats. This reserve is not only a haven for nature enthusiasts but also serves as a sanctuary for critically endangered vegetation. Its seven-kilometer stretch of coastline is home to over 200 plant species, providing a rich tapestry of biodiversity that attracts eco-conscious tourists.

Visitors to the reserve can enjoy a variety of eco-friendly tourism opportunities, including a well-maintained hiking trail that allows them to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. 

The involvement of local communities in the conservation efforts and adherence to stringent Green Coast criteria position Blaauwberg Nature Reserve as a leading example of coastal conservation and sustainable tourism practices.

One of the reserve's standout features is Blaauwberg Hill, which offers a rare vantage point from which to view two designated World Heritage Sites: Table Mountain and Robben Island. This unique perspective underscores the reserve's significance not only as a natural habitat but also as a cultural and historical landmark.

Eddie Andrews, the City’s Deputy Mayor and Mayoral Committee Member for Spatial Planning and Environment, emphasized that this achievement is the result of the tireless efforts of the City’s Environmental Management Department and its partner, the Friends of Blaauwberg Conservation Area. Their dedication to actively monitor, maintain, and ensure the accessibility of the coastline has been pivotal in providing opportunities for environmental education, sustainable tourism, and the empowerment of local communities. 

The ongoing recognition of Blaauwberg Nature Reserve as a Green Coast site serves as a testament to the successful collaboration between the City and local stakeholders in the pursuit of environmental stewardship and community engagement.