Research into ecological infrastructure steps up a gear

Abstract

Ecological infrastructure Ecological infrastructure Research into ecological infrastructure steps up a gear Acid mine drainage (AMD) is one of the largest threats to water resources, often disrupting the functioning of water bodies. By gaining a better understanding of ecological infrastructure – the nature-based equivalent of built or hard infrastructure – the CSIR, Water Research Commission (WRC) and its partners have developed mechanisms to help limit and mitigate the impact of coal-mining on wetlands in Mpumalanga. Ecological infrastructure refers to naturally-functioning ecosystems that generate and deliver valuable services to people and can be just as important for providing services and underpinning socio-economic development. In 2012, the CSIR and the South African National Biodiversity Institute undertook a cooperatively applied research project funded by the Coaltech Research Association, WRC, as well as the Department of Environmental Affairs’ Working for Wetlands programme.

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