Managing enviromental law

Abstract

In the relatively short span of its existence in South Africa, the IEM has developed a good reputation . It may be for this reason that the minister has promulgated numerous regulations under both sections 21 and 26 of the Act (ECA : 1989). We cannot simply use the exact models of the first world countries, because this country is significantly different in its social components and its history. The gap between having no comprehensive environmental management plan, and a sophisticated environmental policy in which EIA is mandatory, is massive. There is an urgent need to bridge this gap before more irreversible decisions, which have an adverse impact on the environment, are made. Making the IEM mandatory is the first step towards the proper policing of Environmental Management in South Africa and although somewhat belated it should still serve its purpose adequately. If the IEM is not enforced then it will simply remain as ineffective as most sections of the ECA. Although the department is understaffed, I can only express the hope that the enforcement of the IEM will be given first priority by the government in order to ensure our international acknowledgement as an environmental friendly nation.