Biodiversity crime often overlooked but its impact is devastating
Biodiversity crime is a growing and often overlooked threat that directly harms South Africa’s unique ecosystems. From the illegal plant trade in the Western Cape to poaching and even picking wildflowers in protected areas without a permit, these acts all contribute to the degradation of biodiversity and the loss of crucial natural resources.
Between April and June 2025, CapeNature officials registered 12 cases, eight involved flora and four involved fauna. CapeNature also issued 23 fines, four were for contraventions of the Marine Living Resources Act and 19 were issued for contraventions of the Nature Conservation Ordinance. Of the latter 19 fines, 15 were for offences involving wild animals and the others involved flora.
These statistics reflect the seriousness of biodiversity crime in the province and our ongoing efforts to strengthen compliance and enforcement along with our partners. Every action we take to stop the illegal harvesting and trade of species contributes to conserving the Western Cape’s globally significant ecosystems. We are especially appreciative of the many partnerships we have with other government agencies, conservation partners, industry groups and communities who assist us in these efforts.”
The Western Cape is home to the Cape Floristic Region, one of the world’s six floral kingdoms and a recognised UNESCO World Heritage Site. Yet nearly 16% of the province’s species and over 50% of its ecosystems are considered Threatened. Illegal activity places additional pressure on already vulnerable landscapes, impacting biodiversity, local economies, and food security.
CapeNature’s compliance and enforcement approach is rooted in multi-agency collaboration with units of the South African Police Service (SAPS), such as the Hawks and the Stock Theft and Endangered Species Units, and with many other partnerships across law enforcement and prosecuting authorities. Enforcement forms part of a broader strategy to disrupt biodiversity crime while supporting sustainable development and conservation-based livelihoods across the province.
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