We coordinate and facilitate the implementation of the City’s Environmental Strategy, working with a range of other departments and external partners to manage and protect the environment and ensure Cape Town’s long-term environmental sustainability.
Cape Town's unique environment is its greatest asset, making it one of the most sought after urban areas in the world, both to live and work in and as a tourist destination. Located within the Cape Floristic Kingdom, the smallest and most diverse of the world’s six floral kingdoms, the city is not only an economic hub but also a biodiversity hot spot of international importance. In recognition of the need to effectively manage and protect this valuable environment, the Environmental Resource Management Department (ERM), has been tasked with leading the implementation of the City's Integrated Metropolitan Environmental Policy (IMEP). This forms the framework for a series of strategies and programmes aimed at ensuring that the principles of environmental sustainability are adhered to. The four lead strategies are: Biodiversity, Energy and Climate Change, Coastal Zone Management and Environmental Education and Training.
Working in close collaboration with other City departments and key stakeholders, the ERM Department focuses on key areas such as biodiversity management, environmental and heritage management, environmental management systems, environmental strategy and partnerships, environmental capacity building, sustainable livelihoods and communications, major programmes and projects, and resource conservation. Twenty-three nature reserves within the city are managed by the Biodiversity Management Branch. The ERM Department also facilitates the improvement of organisational environmental performance within the City.
Environmental Management head office Telephone:
021 487 2284 / 2350
Biodiversity Management Branch head office Telephone:
021 444 1761
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