7.2.5.2 Target of 17 per cent for land under conservation by 2020 The Portfolio Committee stressed the importance of South Africa committing itself internationally to reach its 17 per cent target of land under conservation by 2020, but the Portfolio Committee noted that the National Treasury had rejected the Department's motivation for increased funding to attain this target. The Portfolio Committee was concerned that South African would renege on its international commitment, and this matter due to its international implications should be treated as a priority by the Department and Treasury.