The future of southern Africa's economic, social and political development is inextricably linked to how people in the region interact with their environment, whether the issue is farming, food security, access to water or energy production.

Many members of the scientific community, civil society and the private sector are pursuing innovative, environmentally sound and sustainable strategies for development. But, like in so many other areas, policymakers and the public still lack the information needed to ensure that their livelihoods will allow the present generation to meet its needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs.

Panos Institute Southern Africa plays a leading role in empowering communities across the region to effectively manage their natural resources. Indeed, PSAf believes that truly sustainable must balance three goals: environmental protection, healthy economic growth and social equity.

PSAf seeks to stimulate public dialogue on these issues, while building the capacity of the media to report on issues surrounding the sustainable use of natural resources, agriculture techniques, the environment, poverty and sustainable livelihoods. We also seek to build networks of journalists across the region who can inform the public on the benefits and challenges of new approaches to agriculture, development, and everyday tasks that will conserve water, wildlife and energy, aiding the environment while helping southern Africans to effectively use their resources and enhance their lives.

PSAf has sponsored television and radio discussion programmes to raise public awareness of key environmental issues ranging from the environmental effects of stone quarrying to corporate responsibility and environmental management. Through our research and publications, PSAf has played a leading role in facilitating debate and encouraging comprehensive government policy on biotechnology issues - particularly the controversial issue of genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

In short, our goal is to push sustainable natural resource management in southern Africa into the mainstream of public debate, where it belongs.