Philip Frenzel-Daniels is a freshwater ecologist with 8 years of postgraduate experience in freshwater ecology. He holds an MSc in Conservation Ecology from Stellenbosch University, where his research evaluated nature-based solutions for improving water quality and enhancing biodiversity — work he has since presented on local, national, and international platforms. He is registered as a Professional Natural Scientist with SACNASP, and has authored or co-authored more than 60 specialist reports.

Recent project highlights include an assessment of aquatic ecosystems and environmental flows in Lesotho for Southern Waters Ecological Research and Consulting cc, funded by GIZ (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit), including development of a wetland inventory and identification of candidate Ramsar sites (2026). He also carried out field-validated condition assessments of inland aquatic ecosystems in the Berg-Breede and greater uMngeni demonstration catchments as part of the South African National Biodiversity Institute’s Ecological Infrastructure for Water Security (EI4WS) project (2024).

Philip’s core work spans wetland and river delineation, ecological condition and sensitivity assessments, biomonitoring, water quality monitoring, impact assessments, and Water Use Authorisations, with project experience across municipal, infrastructure, conservation, groundwater abstraction, wastewater treatment and renewable energy sectors. He specialises in translating ecological data into practical, defensible mitigation, rehabilitation and monitoring recommendations.

Formal education:

MSc (Conservation Ecology, Stellenbosch University)

BSc (incl Honours) (Conservation Ecology, Stellenbosch University)

Professional Memberships/Accreditations 

Registered Professional Natural Scientist (SACNASP) (Reg. No: 123620)

Member: South African Wetland Society

Steering Committee Member: Western Cape Wetlands Forum

Specialisations

Freshwater ecological input to environmental impact assessments; water quality monitoring; wetland delineations; data management; river and wetland rehabilitation; water use authorisations; management and maintenance plans; ecological condition and sensitivity assessments of rivers and wetlands

email: phil@freshwaterconsulting.co.za
Tel: +27(0)72-419-7232