From Bedlam to Bedfellows: Reducing Risk Through Ecosystem Service Partnerships

A recent increase in disasters (flood, drought, storms and fire) in South Africa has forged unique and potentially powerful partnerships of scientists, businesses and local government. While climate-associated drivers of these disasters lead to disempowerment, new research shows that land-use practices also contribute by reducing ecological buffering capacity. Dr. Reyers will highlight new ecosystem service-based partnerships intended to proactively manage and reduce risk.