Nature Positive Cities Efforts to Advance the Transition Durban 2024

Data and analytics Stakeholder engagement Capabilities Challenges identified –Limited or unavailable long-term datasets on nature. –Limited number of processes to manage nature-related data. –Outdated platforms (such as the vulnerability atlas) are integral to supporting nature-related decision-making. –Hampered monitoring of NGO’s contributions due to lack of an integrated system. Improvement areas –Update vulnerability assessments of critical infrastructure and natural capital, so that risks can be detected and addressed as they arise. –Strengthen integration between Durban’s Strategic Hub with the Biodiversity Management Department (BMD) and the Climate Change Department (CCD) to ensure data availability, updated dashboards and greater coordination on data use and management.Challenges identified –Limited coordination to communicate biodiversity and nature efforts to all stakeholders. –Limited engagement with citizens and organized groups and societies on nature. –Limited number of environmental stewardships for city officials and residents. Improvement areas –Explore international collaboration opportunities, such as joining the African Natural Capital Alliance (ANCA) and forming alliances with neighbouring countries. –Use the Environmental Education and Public Awareness Network (EEPAN) for increased communication and advocacy on nature issues. –Integrate nature and climate topics into the Natural Resource Department’s educational programme to inform students on biodiversity and climate. –Boost engagement with NGOs and civil society, e.g. partnering with the Endangered Wildlife Trust for wetland protection. –Engage private companies affected by the cost of inaction, such as insurers, to create solutions. –Raise awareness of ecological conservation and nature restoration to engage the public.Challenges identified –Insufficient number of personnel to support conservation efforts and enforce compliance against nature criteria. –Limited dedicated BMD staff to support communications and funding application functions. –Lack of personnel for major roles (e.g. permanent senior manager) during critical periods. –Limited cross-departmental awareness on overarching city biodiversity objectives and targets. –Laborious and intensive recruitment processes limit acquisition of workforce. Improvement areas –Allocate a budget for staff dedicated to communicating climate change and environmental issues, and increase their involvement in environmental planning. –Participate in international collaborations, such as C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group, Resilient Cities Network, and World Resources Institute (WRI), to strengthen civil capacity and apply global learnings. –Strengthen in-house biodiversity and nature expertise through training and on-the-job exposure.Challenges and improvement areas continued Nature Positive: Cities’ Efforts to Advance the Transition 9