Conservation through private ownership of commons and land: A Case study in exclusivity

Abstract

South Africa’s legacy of apartheid has led to ongoing inequalities in land ownership, with white South Africans holding vast amounts of land. Despite the intricate relationships between land and commons, existing literature has treated these concepts as distinct entities. This study addresses this knowledge gap by exploring the entwinement of land and commons in the context of private ownership and conservation. Through a case study of the Mountain Club of South Africa, this research examines the complex relationships between private land ownership, conservation, and exclusivity. Over the years, there has been a significant increase in conserving the environment privately. In South Africa, the oldest club, the Mountain Club of South Africa (MCSA) has taken on this role for over a hundred years to keep the Magaliesberg region pristine for future generations and to reduce ecological loss. Despite efforts to promote diversity and inclusivity, the club’s membership remains white, and its membership fees may pose a significant barrier to entry for low-income individuals and marginalised communities. While members argue that private ownership ensures better land management, the club’s limited public access and exclusive decision-making processes raise concerns about equity and sustainability of conservation efforts. This research underscores the need for inclusive conservation practices, highlighting the importance of balancing private ownership with public access to promote equality and reduce exclusivity in the conservation of land and commons.