1. Integrating biodiversity issues into strategic environmental planning A Case Study of the uMhlathuze Municipality, Richards Bay, South Africa Presented by Ms. Thea Jordan Deputy Director IDP : Environmental Planning September 2005

2. Strategic Catchment Assessment Process Environmental Indicators CATCHMENT STATUS QUO CATCHMENT UNITS Environmental Opportunities & Constraints Development Scenario Changes to Status Quo ? ? Strategic Interventions Strategic Planning Land Use Infrastructure Environmental Asset

3. Landscape Assessment

4. Summary – All Catchments

5. Focus on the City Catchment Environment Service Asset with Aerial Underlay

6. City Catchment Key Environmental Opportunities: 1. Regionally important habitats exist with potential for international recognition through RAMSAR. 2.Natural habitat continues to buffer negative environmental impacts of land uses in the catchment. 3.Opportunity for using remaining natural areas as urban recreational assets. Key Environmental Constraints: 1. Poor air quality limits environmental quality & creates human & environmental health risks. 2.High water table in low lying areas affects service infrastructure. 3.Water quality declining as a result of industrial pollution & leaks. May affect important downstream catchments (Lake Mzingazi, Harbour).

7. Strategic Responses Review Industrial Expansion Strategy with respect to destruction of the nationally significant natural habitats and with respect to downstream impacts on a regional fisheries resource; the Municipality’s primary tourism and recreation zone; human & environmental health risks; water supply constraints.

8. City Catchment At Planning Level City Biodiversity Complex Thulazihleka Pan Complex City canals & drainage Northern Wetlands & Forest Patches Western drainage system & wetlands City Swamps Environment Service Asset