In terms of Schedule 1 of Government Gazette 1183, promulgated on 5 September 1997, an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process must be followed to evaluate the impact of certain listed activities. Two activities governed by the new regulations include:

Construction or upgrading of:

APPROACH:

The prescribed EIA process, which must be undertaken by an independent consultant, comprises 3 main steps, namely:

• A pre-application consultation with the designated authority to agree on the required course of action
• A Scoping Study to identify issues and concerns of other parties and determine potential impacts
• A comprehensive EIA for that activity or development

It is not always necessary to undertake all the above steps and is well experienced in identifying the required project scope of work.

WHY FOLLOW THE EIA PROCESS?

• It is a requirement of National Legislation
• Because you and your company care for the environment
• To avoid liability and prosecution
• To avoid work stoppage orders and unnecessary delays in your project
• To address public and potential client concerns
• To reduce and manage any negative impacts on the environment
• To enhance the environmental benefits of your project

Upgrading or development of sites storing or handling hazardous substances will require an EIA