CEU Electronic Theses and Dissertations, 2020
| Author | Wilmot, Jessica |
|---|---|
| Title | Testing the applicability of implementing the Modified Threat Reduction Assessment tool within Private Protected Areas of South Africa |
| Summary | Global biodiversity conservation targets cannot be achieved by solely relying on state-owned PAs. In South Africa, where 79% of the country is privately owned, private PAs have become an important vehicle to increase both the total PA network and the representation of threatened ecosystems. However, despite their increasing extent and recognition, little is known about their management effectiveness. While South Africa has evaluated most of its state-owned PAs using an adapted version of the Management Effectiveness Tracking Tool (METT), to date, only a handful of private PAs have been evaluated with the same tool. Since private PAs are diverse in terms of biodiversity features, management approaches and objectives, using a standardised tool that has been adapted for state-owned PAs is not considered appropriate. Therefore, the aim of this thesis was to determine whether the Modified Threat Reduction Assessment (MTRA) is a more appropriate tool for private PAs. To determine this, first the public trust doctrine which is embedded in South Africa’s environmental law was investigated, questionnaires were then used to gauge the opinions of the stakeholders involved with the implementation of METT and to determine the accompanying challenges. Lastly after comparing the TRA Index with that of the METT scores from the same private PA it was determined that the MTRA can be considered a better alternative. Institutional challenges and capacity problems prevents the METT from being implemented according to best practice guidelines. The MTRA was found to provide more benefits and less administrative challenges for private PA management. |
| Supervisor | Anthony, B.P. |
| Department | Environment Sciences and Policy MSc |
| Full text | https://www.etd.ceu.edu/2020/wilmot_jessica.pdf |
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