Abstract

The impacts of global warming and climate change are becoming increasingly evident across the

developing and developed world. In this regard, Africa is amongst the most vulnerable due to

high levels of abject poverty and limited capacity to adapt to the impacts of climate change. As a

result, there has been increased investment in conservation and mitigation programmes,

particularly across KwaZulu-Natal which houses high levels of biodiversity and poverty.

Biologically diverse areas are not only important from an environmental perspective to protect

the planet’s natural resources but are also significant in relation to promoting ecotourism

activities that have major socio-economic impacts. Furthermore, these ecological spaces have

livelihood, leisure and recreational values for local communities. Additionally, there is a growing

body of knowledge indicating that the use of green spaces is associated with positive impacts on

health and well-being. This study draws on experiences and empirical evidence on the use of

green and biologically diverse spaces in Inanda, KwaZulu-Natal. Results indicate that local

community members use green spaces for a range of recreational and livelihood purposes such as

relaxation, hiking, biking, playing sport and the collection of resources. Also, even though

limited levels of scientific knowledge were noted, respondents displayed significant levels of

environmental awareness. It is also important to examine the impacts of these specific uses

especially in relation to environmental well-being. This study highlights the multiple benefits

derived from green spaces and affirms that the main recipients of these benefits are the poor.