Adams, Michael William2016-02-252016-02-252015http://hdl.handle.net/10539/19736The fast and uncontrolled rate of human population growth has created immense pressure on scarce natural resources. This scarcity of resources has had significant impacts on the operation and profitability of many business entities. A new philosophy in approaching this issue is the idea of assigning a physical or monetary value to those natural processes that take place (and sustain us) in the natural environment. This study attempts to determine whether or not South African firms are aware of the concept of natural capital and if they have an understanding of the benefits of placing a value on natural capital (including environmental services and biodiversity). This research also seeks to understand whether firms in South Africa effectively use the concept and any of the available models, to aid in business decisions or whether the concept is seen rather as a hindrance to decision-making. Semi-structured interviews with senior managers from a variety of South African companies and government departments were conducted. The results of this report show an increasing awareness of the topic of natural capital amongst businesses in South Africa which is often driven by leadership or change agents within the company. There is a strong bias towards using carbon as a model to profit from natural capital and a belief that truly quantifying natural capital is inherently difficult. Some firms appear to simply be paying lip-service to the concept as opposed to genuinely seeking to profit from natural capital.enSocial responsibility of business -- South Africa. Management -- Environmental aspects -- South Africa.Sustainable development -- South Africa.Thesis