Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ) has joined the continent in commemorating Africa Environment Day, led by the African Union, alongside World Wildlife Day – urging collective action to protect Africa’s rich natural heritage.

Africa’s biodiversity remains among the most remarkable globally, yet many iconic species face growing threats from habitat loss, climate change, pollution, illegal wildlife trade and unsustainable land use.

Among the most endangered species are the Black Rhinoceros, African Forest Elephant, Mountain Gorilla, African Penguin, Ethiopian Wolf and Pangolin. Critical indigenous plant species such as the Baobab Tree, African Teak, Encephalartos Woodii and Prunus africana are also under severe pressure.

Managing Director Thanduxolo Mendrew stressed that biodiversity loss represents ecological, economic and cultural decline.

“Protecting our environment is fundamental to our survival and resilience. When species disappear, ecosystems that sustain communities are weakened. Conservation is a social, economic and moral imperative,” he said.

Healthy ecosystems underpin food and water security, climate resilience and tourism-driven economies. Wetlands, forests and grasslands absorb carbon, prevent erosion and buffer extreme weather events, while pollinators and catchment systems sustain livelihoods.

Urban centres such as Johannesburg play a vital conservation role through green infrastructure, habitat restoration and environmental education. JCPZ continues to advance urban greening and biodiversity protection initiatives aligned with continental priorities.

The entity has called on residents, businesses and diplomatic missions to support conservation efforts — including responsible consumption, water conservation and tree planting — in honour of the late Nobel laureate Wangari Maathai and her enduring green legacy.