South Africa’s new gold rush: Big promises, closed books in new carbon frontier

In the Eastern Cape province of South Africa, a new gold rush is underway, driven by the potential of spekboom-led ecosystem restoration. This article is the third in a three-part investigation by Mongabay, a collaboration between independent science writer Leonie Joubert, the Stellenbosch University School for Climate Studies, and the Henry Nxumalo Foundation. Gqeberha serves as the setting for this unique restoration effort.

The area has been heavily grazed over the years, resulting in significant degradation. However, a single shrub, young spekboom (Portulacaria afra), planted at Nick Hamp-Adams' farm camp, may offer a glimmer of hope. With more time in the nursery, this shrub has had the opportunity to bulk up, but its roots were exposed due to improper planting.

Hamp-Adams, the general manager for Return to Thicket, a smaller restoration project in this region, begins to address the issue by reopening the original planting hole. His calm and measured approach reflects the delicate nature of the task at hand. He explains that animals, such as kudu, likely did not plant the shrub deep enough, which contributed to its current state. Despite their resilience, spekboom plants require tender care, especially during the planting process.

This ecosystem restoration project is part of a broader initiative to revitalize degraded landscapes in South Africa. By focusing on the potential of spekboom, a tough plant capable of thriving in various conditions, the project aims to restore balance to the ecosystem and promote biodiversity. The three-part investigation by Mongabay sheds light on the promise and challenges of this carbon frontier.