PROGRAMME 2: ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY & PROTECTION

Purpose of Programme

To protect and improve the quality and safety of the environment

ACHIEVEMENTS IN 2005/06

• Environmental compliance and enforcement capacity enhanced nationally through recruitment, training and development of 7—environmental management inspectors and sensitising the judiciary to environmental issues through training prosecutors
• Progress in waste minimization through MOU with the glass industry and pilot waste management projects in selected provinces.
• Air Quality Act effective, Vaal Priority Area declared, training for provincial and local government air quality management officials
• NEMA environmental impact assessment regulations finalised;
• A computerized environmental authorization database established
• Impact management guidelines and information booklets developed.

BENEFITS FOR SOUTH AFRICANS

• The Constitution promises a “Safe and Healthy” Environment for all South Africans
• The legacy of our past has meant that it is the poorest and most vulnerable who are most affected by poor air quality, inadequate waste management and pollution of all kinds
• The work of the EQP branch is designed to address this legacy and to put in place the foundation that will guarantee the Constitutional Right to a safe and healthy environment
• As such our work on waste management, air quality and environmental law enforcement is intended to ensure environmental justice for all.