Founded in 1926, the Wildlife and Environment Society of SA is South Africa's oldest and largest non-government membership-based environmental organisation.

WESSA maintains a watchful eye on the South African environment through its extensive network of Regional Offices , Branches (volunteer groups acting for their communities), Friends Groups (groups of people who have banded together to conserve natural areas) and Environmental Clubs .

Professional environmental staff are employed to work directly with the public, with local, provincial and national government and with other environmental organisations to press for effective environmental planning and legislation, to offer better protection of the environment. WESSA has representation on many National and Regional conservation bodies and investigatory commissions, and is a founder member of the World Conservation Union (formerly the International Union for the Conservation of Nature - IUCN).

Structurally, WESSA is a Section 21 company registered as an Incorporated Association not for gain. The Regions elect a National Council, which in turn  appoints the Board of Directors.

Caring for the Earth

"Tell people - and they may forget...
show them - they may remember...
but involve them and they will understand."
Confucius, the Chinese philosopher.

We all depend on the resources of the Earth to sustain our lives - from the most basic requirements such as air, water and food, through to the materials we use for shelter, transport, work opportunities and recreation. WESSA's vision is to achieve a South Africa which is wisely managed by all to ensure long-term environmental sustainability. To this end we promote public participation in caring for the Earth.

WESSA has been a motivating force behind many of South Africa's most significant environmental decisions . These and other achievements have been brought about by the actions of ordinary South Africans - people who have spoken out, taken action, supported the Society and got involved.

Today WESSA remains relevant and influential as both an environmental watchdog and as an educator .