This is an issue being faced by other registered biospheres as well               Mining is definitely not a compatible activity as laid out by UNESCO. No applications should be entertained by government institutions like dept of minerals and energy. Peoples time and funds are being wasted fighting this where provinces as the registering body need to take responsibility along with department of environmental affairs and create a permanent no go zone for mining.

A biosphere buffer is as clarified by UNESCO MAB program:                            It surrounds or adjoins the core are(s), and is used for activities compatible with sound ecological practices that can reinforce scientific research, monitoring, training and education.

A buffer zone or zones clearly identified as fulfilling buffering functions, surrounding or contiguous to core area or areas, where only activities compatible with the conservation objectives can take place.  The main focus of the buffer zone is to allow management techniques to be developed, explored and learned about, in order to maintain semi-natural ecosystems, including their biodiversity,

Assist us to stop this at the highest level by signing the petition