I have 50 years of experience as an applied ecologist in Africa. My professional interests are largely twofold. (1) Ecology and management of invasive alien plants, where I have experience in the use of fire in managing invasions, population dynamics of invasive plants, water use by invasive plants, the biological control of invasive plants, studies on resource economics, and the development of research and management strategies; (2) Ecology and management of ecosystems using fire. I have worked mainly in fynbos, grassland and savanna ecosystems in southern and eastern Africa, but have gained considerable experience on joint projects in the USA, Argentina, Australia and Indian Ocean islands. Much of my recent work has been aimed at the integration of research results towards the design and implementation of environmental policy, including the measurement and consideration of ecosystem services.