Terrain suitability analysis for the proposed rapid-rail link between Pretoria, Johannesburg and Johannesburg International Airport
- Authors: Roets, Wilna
- Date: 2009-02-05T07:12:37Z
- Subjects: Environmental impact analysis , Railroads , High speed trains , Gauteng (South Africa)
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:8085 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/2014
- Description: M.A. , The proposal to build the Gautrain rapid-rail link between Pretoria, Johannesburg and Johannesburg International Airport was approved in June 2000 by the Gauteng Provincial Government. It was noted that this particular development could have serious environmental implications for the area involved. The aim of this research is therefore to identify the most suitable terrain in order to optimise the rail route alignment with minimal environmental impact. This will be accomplished by undertaking a terrain suitability analysis. The different high-speed railway types are discussed and their impact on the environment is considered, culminating in an evaluation of the background and status of the proposed Gautrain rapid-rail link. The different approaches to terrain evaluation are discussed in order to draw conclusions relative to the methodology used in this research. Subsequently the activity approach as described by Mitchell (1991) and Hugo et al (1997) was chosen as the methodology to use for this research and the terrain within the study area was classified according to its suitability for the development of the Gautrain rapid-rail link. A Geographic Information System (GIS) was utilised to aid in the terrain suitability analysis. As a result of the analysis an optimised route is proposed and compared to the rail routes already proposed for the Gautrain rapid-rail link. It is imperative that a terrain suitability analysis should form part of the preliminary phase of any environmental management cycle as portrayed in Fuggle & Rabie (1998), in order to identify suitable terrain for the development in question; the rapid-rail link route should be no exception.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Roets, Wilna
- Date: 2009-02-05T07:12:37Z
- Subjects: Environmental impact analysis , Railroads , High speed trains , Gauteng (South Africa)
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:8085 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/2014
- Description: M.A. , The proposal to build the Gautrain rapid-rail link between Pretoria, Johannesburg and Johannesburg International Airport was approved in June 2000 by the Gauteng Provincial Government. It was noted that this particular development could have serious environmental implications for the area involved. The aim of this research is therefore to identify the most suitable terrain in order to optimise the rail route alignment with minimal environmental impact. This will be accomplished by undertaking a terrain suitability analysis. The different high-speed railway types are discussed and their impact on the environment is considered, culminating in an evaluation of the background and status of the proposed Gautrain rapid-rail link. The different approaches to terrain evaluation are discussed in order to draw conclusions relative to the methodology used in this research. Subsequently the activity approach as described by Mitchell (1991) and Hugo et al (1997) was chosen as the methodology to use for this research and the terrain within the study area was classified according to its suitability for the development of the Gautrain rapid-rail link. A Geographic Information System (GIS) was utilised to aid in the terrain suitability analysis. As a result of the analysis an optimised route is proposed and compared to the rail routes already proposed for the Gautrain rapid-rail link. It is imperative that a terrain suitability analysis should form part of the preliminary phase of any environmental management cycle as portrayed in Fuggle & Rabie (1998), in order to identify suitable terrain for the development in question; the rapid-rail link route should be no exception.
- Full Text:
Omgewingsimpak van veeboerdery op die Suidelike Kalahari-sandveld
- Authors: Meyer, Coenraad Wilhelmus
- Date: 2009-02-05T07:13:07Z
- Subjects: Environmental impact analysis , Environmental management , Agriculture , Northern Cape (South Africa)
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:8087 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/2016
- Description: M.A. , Natural phenomenon such as droughts have a definite influence on the availability of water sources, soil profiles and vegetation of an area. Man should adapt his activities, such as farming, to the current climatic elements of the area to ensure his existence. Intermittent rainfall and the occurrence of droughts caused symptoms such as desertification. Desertification has reached an alarming level in South Africa, so much so that the level of environmental degradation in the Northern Cape Province caused great distress. This caused many questions into the activities of man in this area. The problem that arose out of this is, does man cause a negative impact on the environment with his farming activities? The specific area of concern is the Southern Kalahari-dunefield, with its unique ecosystems. This area can be described as an semi-arid desert with very sensitive ecosystems. Any form of interference can cause a long term ecological disruption. This area contains several hidden resources which are optimally used by man and animals to live a decent life. The development of these resources (e.g. water) over the past decades lead to the advantage for all concerned. However, the real danger of over-utilisation and exploitation do exist. Questionnaires were used to gather data concerning stock farming activities in this area. Information was obtained regarding water resources, vegetation cover, endemic animals, type of farming, ground cover and other economic activities such as tourism. Man is an additional determinant who causes an impact on his environment in the Southern Kalahari-dunefield. Although a change can be observed over the past decades in the activities of man to enhance sustainable development, continuous strive to the implementation of new methods to preserve resources in the long term, must be encouraged.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Meyer, Coenraad Wilhelmus
- Date: 2009-02-05T07:13:07Z
- Subjects: Environmental impact analysis , Environmental management , Agriculture , Northern Cape (South Africa)
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:8087 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/2016
- Description: M.A. , Natural phenomenon such as droughts have a definite influence on the availability of water sources, soil profiles and vegetation of an area. Man should adapt his activities, such as farming, to the current climatic elements of the area to ensure his existence. Intermittent rainfall and the occurrence of droughts caused symptoms such as desertification. Desertification has reached an alarming level in South Africa, so much so that the level of environmental degradation in the Northern Cape Province caused great distress. This caused many questions into the activities of man in this area. The problem that arose out of this is, does man cause a negative impact on the environment with his farming activities? The specific area of concern is the Southern Kalahari-dunefield, with its unique ecosystems. This area can be described as an semi-arid desert with very sensitive ecosystems. Any form of interference can cause a long term ecological disruption. This area contains several hidden resources which are optimally used by man and animals to live a decent life. The development of these resources (e.g. water) over the past decades lead to the advantage for all concerned. However, the real danger of over-utilisation and exploitation do exist. Questionnaires were used to gather data concerning stock farming activities in this area. Information was obtained regarding water resources, vegetation cover, endemic animals, type of farming, ground cover and other economic activities such as tourism. Man is an additional determinant who causes an impact on his environment in the Southern Kalahari-dunefield. Although a change can be observed over the past decades in the activities of man to enhance sustainable development, continuous strive to the implementation of new methods to preserve resources in the long term, must be encouraged.
- Full Text:
A framework methodology for the cumulative impact assessment of wetlands
- Authors: Stoop, Aiden
- Date: 2008-06-23T13:33:54Z
- Subjects: Wetlands , Wetlands' laws and legislation , Coal mines and mining , Environmental impact analysis
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:3456 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/684
- Description: Mrs. D.C. Schoeman
- Full Text:
- Authors: Stoop, Aiden
- Date: 2008-06-23T13:33:54Z
- Subjects: Wetlands , Wetlands' laws and legislation , Coal mines and mining , Environmental impact analysis
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:3456 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/684
- Description: Mrs. D.C. Schoeman
- Full Text:
Establishing guidelines for environmental management plans for golf course developments in Gauteng Province
- Authors: Botha, De Wet
- Date: 2008-05-14T08:03:29Z
- Subjects: Golf courses , Environmental management , Environmental impact analysis , Gauteng (South Africa)
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:7168 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/377
- Description: The impacts of golf courses and golf estate developments are great and definite. Proof of this can be seen in several Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA), that have been submitted to the Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Conservation (GDACE) in terms of the Environmental Conservation Act (ECA) (1989) and the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA) (1998). The question is how to limit these impacts on the environment. Guidelines on how to manage and mitigate these impacts are of fundamental importance, to ensure the conservation of the environment. These guidelines should set principles for the management of the environment from cradle to grave, for future golf course and golf estate developments. The main objective of this study was to develop guidelines for Environmental Management Plans (EMP) specifically focused on golf course developments in the Gauteng Province. To achieve this, a comprehensive study was conducted on the factors pertaining to the environmental process by evaluating previous EIA reports and the associated EMP’s as well as the supporting documentation. The EMP’s were evaluated and several shortfalls were identified. The EIA scoping reports were then appraised and ranked accordingly. The scoping reports assess the impacts on the environment. These impacts must be mitigated in the development process. These impacts and mitigation measures must be documented in an EMP. Hence, the connection between the EIA scoping reports and the EMP’s. Several inadequacies were recognized with respect to the inclusion of all the mitigatory measures for all the impacts as identified in the EIA scoping reports. The conclusions drawn in the evaluations were used to develop the guidelines for EMP’s. The guidelines given here will assist in future compilations of EMP’s for golf courses. It is highly recommended that GDACE and environmental consultants adopt this standard in preparing and evaluating applications. , Prof. J.T. Harmse
- Full Text:
- Authors: Botha, De Wet
- Date: 2008-05-14T08:03:29Z
- Subjects: Golf courses , Environmental management , Environmental impact analysis , Gauteng (South Africa)
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:7168 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/377
- Description: The impacts of golf courses and golf estate developments are great and definite. Proof of this can be seen in several Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA), that have been submitted to the Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Conservation (GDACE) in terms of the Environmental Conservation Act (ECA) (1989) and the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA) (1998). The question is how to limit these impacts on the environment. Guidelines on how to manage and mitigate these impacts are of fundamental importance, to ensure the conservation of the environment. These guidelines should set principles for the management of the environment from cradle to grave, for future golf course and golf estate developments. The main objective of this study was to develop guidelines for Environmental Management Plans (EMP) specifically focused on golf course developments in the Gauteng Province. To achieve this, a comprehensive study was conducted on the factors pertaining to the environmental process by evaluating previous EIA reports and the associated EMP’s as well as the supporting documentation. The EMP’s were evaluated and several shortfalls were identified. The EIA scoping reports were then appraised and ranked accordingly. The scoping reports assess the impacts on the environment. These impacts must be mitigated in the development process. These impacts and mitigation measures must be documented in an EMP. Hence, the connection between the EIA scoping reports and the EMP’s. Several inadequacies were recognized with respect to the inclusion of all the mitigatory measures for all the impacts as identified in the EIA scoping reports. The conclusions drawn in the evaluations were used to develop the guidelines for EMP’s. The guidelines given here will assist in future compilations of EMP’s for golf courses. It is highly recommended that GDACE and environmental consultants adopt this standard in preparing and evaluating applications. , Prof. J.T. Harmse
- Full Text:
The need for and contents of a life cycle management plan for Eskom transmission line servitudes
- Authors: Vosloo, Hein Frederich
- Date: 2009-01-29T12:09:55Z
- Subjects: Eskom (Firm) , Environmental impact analysis , Electric lines , Servitudes , Electric lines management , Servitudes management
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:14856 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/1978
- Description: M.Sc. , The transmission system of Eskom occupies approximately 28 000 km of servitude that crosses a number of biomes in South Africa. The management of these servitudes, with respect to the impacts that the system has on the surrounding environment, as well as the effect of biotic, social and natural phenomena on the electrical system, needs to be carefully managed. This study investigates these bi-directional influences to determine which are pertinent to the management to the transmission line servitudes. This study also derives a number of strategic actions and accountabilities for all participating departments in the Transmission Division of Eskom, who are involved in the management of one or more phases of the life cycle of the servitude.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Vosloo, Hein Frederich
- Date: 2009-01-29T12:09:55Z
- Subjects: Eskom (Firm) , Environmental impact analysis , Electric lines , Servitudes , Electric lines management , Servitudes management
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:14856 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/1978
- Description: M.Sc. , The transmission system of Eskom occupies approximately 28 000 km of servitude that crosses a number of biomes in South Africa. The management of these servitudes, with respect to the impacts that the system has on the surrounding environment, as well as the effect of biotic, social and natural phenomena on the electrical system, needs to be carefully managed. This study investigates these bi-directional influences to determine which are pertinent to the management to the transmission line servitudes. This study also derives a number of strategic actions and accountabilities for all participating departments in the Transmission Division of Eskom, who are involved in the management of one or more phases of the life cycle of the servitude.
- Full Text:
The effect of environmental aspects on the biological communities of the Olifants and Luvuvhu Rivers in the Kruger National Park
- Authors: Renshaw, Christopher Ashby
- Date: 2012-05-02
- Subjects: Water quality biological assessment , River ecology management , Olifants River (South Africa) , Luvuvhu River (South Africa) , Kruger National Park Rivers Research Programme , Environmental impact analysis , Aquaculture - Environmental aspects
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:2242 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/4681
- Description: M.Sc. , The Department of Water Affairs (DWA) through the National Water Act 36 of 1998 (NWA) recognises that river management in South Africa is extremely important and consequently the ecological integrity of our river systems must be upheld. The conservation of our aquatic resources and aquatic ecosystems can only be achieved by the holistic management of the resources itself, and in turn the aquatic biodiversity. As such, the National River Health Programme (RHP) through the DWA has been formulated to identify and monitor the current ecological state of South African rivers (Balance et al., 2001). The Luvuvhu and Olifants Rivers in the Kruger National Park (KNP) have been monitored in terms of the River Health Programme, but little published literature is available on their biological communities as determined by the use of accepted indices such as the SASS5 protocol (Dickens and Graham, 2002) and the Fish Response Assessment Index (FRAI) (Kleynhans, 2007a). This project therefore studied the two rivers on an individual basis, as well as comparing them to each other. The working hypotheses for this project are that: (1) In comparison to the Luvuvhu River, the biological communities of the Olifants River in the KNP have been negatively affected by anthropogenic impacts; and (2) The ecological integrity of the biological communities improves as the Luvuvhu and Olifants Rivers flow though the KNP. To test these hypotheses the aims and objectives of this project were to: (1) Determine the fish and macroinvertebrate biological community structure in the Olifants and Luvuvhu Rivers in the KNP; (2) Determine the in situ water quality of the two rivers; and (3) Determine whether the changes in the biological communities along the two rivers can be related to anthropogenic stressors on the rivers from sources outside the KNP. The research methodology for this study was based on the implementation of the various indices used by the RHP for the biological communities sampled. Four sites in the Luvuvhu River and five sites in the Olifants River were selected based on data availability and site accessibility. The SASS5 protocol was used to assess the macroinvertebrates, and the Fish Response Assessment Index (FRAI) was used to assess the fish communities. In situ water quality parameters were assessed against South African Water Quality Guidelines for Freshwater Ecosystems (DWA, 1996) and the Kruger National Park’s thresholds of potential concern. This was done to determine the health of the biological communities in terms of Page 9 anthropogenic stressors, and then to assess the trends seen between the individual sites, and between the two rivers. Various univariate diversity indices were used to assess community structure. Multivariate statistical analyses were performed on the water quality as well as the macroinvertebrate and fish communities to establish any temporal and spatial trends. PRIMER and CANOCO computer software were used to construct hierarchical clusters and NMDS plots for the biotic communities, while PCA bi-plots were used to represent the water quality variables and their effects on the biotic community structure. The ecological integrity of the biological communities of the Olifants River has deteriorated. The fish and macroinvertebrate communities have declined in terms of species richness and abundance, as well as community structure. However, macroinvertebrates were not found to have diminished as drastically. This is due mainly to the fact that they respond rapidly to changes in conditions, and the 2010 season was a good one regarding habitat and water quality. As such they increased in diversity and number, but on the whole, this will change as the trend of decreasing species richness and abundance will continue. The decrease in water quality can be said to be a driver of these results, as the in situ variables revealed that the EC for the Olifants is extremely high. The abstraction of water upstream has led to an overall reduction in flow, and as such habitat availability is reduced, and fish and macroinvertebrate communities relying on these habitats have been negatively affected. There has been no increase in biological community integrity from the point where the Olifants River entered the park, to where it left the park. In fact, there has been a decrease in the integrity along the length of the river. The loss in biological community structure can therefore be attributed to habitat loss through water abstraction and the adverse water quality from the numerous anthropogenic influences upstream.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Renshaw, Christopher Ashby
- Date: 2012-05-02
- Subjects: Water quality biological assessment , River ecology management , Olifants River (South Africa) , Luvuvhu River (South Africa) , Kruger National Park Rivers Research Programme , Environmental impact analysis , Aquaculture - Environmental aspects
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:2242 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/4681
- Description: M.Sc. , The Department of Water Affairs (DWA) through the National Water Act 36 of 1998 (NWA) recognises that river management in South Africa is extremely important and consequently the ecological integrity of our river systems must be upheld. The conservation of our aquatic resources and aquatic ecosystems can only be achieved by the holistic management of the resources itself, and in turn the aquatic biodiversity. As such, the National River Health Programme (RHP) through the DWA has been formulated to identify and monitor the current ecological state of South African rivers (Balance et al., 2001). The Luvuvhu and Olifants Rivers in the Kruger National Park (KNP) have been monitored in terms of the River Health Programme, but little published literature is available on their biological communities as determined by the use of accepted indices such as the SASS5 protocol (Dickens and Graham, 2002) and the Fish Response Assessment Index (FRAI) (Kleynhans, 2007a). This project therefore studied the two rivers on an individual basis, as well as comparing them to each other. The working hypotheses for this project are that: (1) In comparison to the Luvuvhu River, the biological communities of the Olifants River in the KNP have been negatively affected by anthropogenic impacts; and (2) The ecological integrity of the biological communities improves as the Luvuvhu and Olifants Rivers flow though the KNP. To test these hypotheses the aims and objectives of this project were to: (1) Determine the fish and macroinvertebrate biological community structure in the Olifants and Luvuvhu Rivers in the KNP; (2) Determine the in situ water quality of the two rivers; and (3) Determine whether the changes in the biological communities along the two rivers can be related to anthropogenic stressors on the rivers from sources outside the KNP. The research methodology for this study was based on the implementation of the various indices used by the RHP for the biological communities sampled. Four sites in the Luvuvhu River and five sites in the Olifants River were selected based on data availability and site accessibility. The SASS5 protocol was used to assess the macroinvertebrates, and the Fish Response Assessment Index (FRAI) was used to assess the fish communities. In situ water quality parameters were assessed against South African Water Quality Guidelines for Freshwater Ecosystems (DWA, 1996) and the Kruger National Park’s thresholds of potential concern. This was done to determine the health of the biological communities in terms of Page 9 anthropogenic stressors, and then to assess the trends seen between the individual sites, and between the two rivers. Various univariate diversity indices were used to assess community structure. Multivariate statistical analyses were performed on the water quality as well as the macroinvertebrate and fish communities to establish any temporal and spatial trends. PRIMER and CANOCO computer software were used to construct hierarchical clusters and NMDS plots for the biotic communities, while PCA bi-plots were used to represent the water quality variables and their effects on the biotic community structure. The ecological integrity of the biological communities of the Olifants River has deteriorated. The fish and macroinvertebrate communities have declined in terms of species richness and abundance, as well as community structure. However, macroinvertebrates were not found to have diminished as drastically. This is due mainly to the fact that they respond rapidly to changes in conditions, and the 2010 season was a good one regarding habitat and water quality. As such they increased in diversity and number, but on the whole, this will change as the trend of decreasing species richness and abundance will continue. The decrease in water quality can be said to be a driver of these results, as the in situ variables revealed that the EC for the Olifants is extremely high. The abstraction of water upstream has led to an overall reduction in flow, and as such habitat availability is reduced, and fish and macroinvertebrate communities relying on these habitats have been negatively affected. There has been no increase in biological community integrity from the point where the Olifants River entered the park, to where it left the park. In fact, there has been a decrease in the integrity along the length of the river. The loss in biological community structure can therefore be attributed to habitat loss through water abstraction and the adverse water quality from the numerous anthropogenic influences upstream.
- Full Text:
Omgewingsimpakvoordele indien afsonderlike wildplase in groter samewerkingnatuurreservate gekonsolideer word
- Du Plessis, Pieter Cornelius
- Authors: Du Plessis, Pieter Cornelius
- Date: 2012-02-28
- Subjects: Environmental impact analysis , Game reserves , Game reserves management
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:2082 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/4429
- Description: M.Sc. , The establishment of conservancies and collaborative nature reserves is often promoted without understanding the impact that such initiatives have on the environment, the wildlife and landowners. This tack of knowledge has resulted in the landowners' non-awareness of the advantages and disadvantages of establishing such entities and often leads to disillusionment. A conservancy is established by informal agreement between various landowners to enhance the conservation status of a specific area without affecting the owners' individual rights. A collaborative nature reserve is established as a result of a format agreement between landowners to manage and administer their collective land as a single unit. The agreement typically addresses issues such as the management systems, the methods to be utilised for income generation, the distribution of surpluses amongst landowners and the rights and privileges applicable to the landowners. The scope of this study has been limited to the establishment of conservancies and collaborative nature reserves between game ranchers and existing game ranches. A literature study was undertaken to determine the advantages and disadvantages of establishing collaborative nature reserves, including a comparative analysis of large versus small conservation areas. Practical research was done to determine the implications, advantages, disadvantages and landowners' perceptions pertaining to the establishment of collaborative nature reserves. The practical research was done by personal observation methods as well as the use of questionnaires. An existing and successful collaborative nature reserve was studied intensively to meet these objectives. This reserve includes the land of twelve individual landowners and also forms part of a greater conservancy. The establishment of collaborative nature reserves can solve the problems created by separate game ranches, especially that of the compartmentalisation of grazing areas for game. Careful pre-planning can surmount the negative aspects of establishing collaborative !lature reserves and the advantages can be maximally utilised.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Du Plessis, Pieter Cornelius
- Date: 2012-02-28
- Subjects: Environmental impact analysis , Game reserves , Game reserves management
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:2082 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/4429
- Description: M.Sc. , The establishment of conservancies and collaborative nature reserves is often promoted without understanding the impact that such initiatives have on the environment, the wildlife and landowners. This tack of knowledge has resulted in the landowners' non-awareness of the advantages and disadvantages of establishing such entities and often leads to disillusionment. A conservancy is established by informal agreement between various landowners to enhance the conservation status of a specific area without affecting the owners' individual rights. A collaborative nature reserve is established as a result of a format agreement between landowners to manage and administer their collective land as a single unit. The agreement typically addresses issues such as the management systems, the methods to be utilised for income generation, the distribution of surpluses amongst landowners and the rights and privileges applicable to the landowners. The scope of this study has been limited to the establishment of conservancies and collaborative nature reserves between game ranchers and existing game ranches. A literature study was undertaken to determine the advantages and disadvantages of establishing collaborative nature reserves, including a comparative analysis of large versus small conservation areas. Practical research was done to determine the implications, advantages, disadvantages and landowners' perceptions pertaining to the establishment of collaborative nature reserves. The practical research was done by personal observation methods as well as the use of questionnaires. An existing and successful collaborative nature reserve was studied intensively to meet these objectives. This reserve includes the land of twelve individual landowners and also forms part of a greater conservancy. The establishment of collaborative nature reserves can solve the problems created by separate game ranches, especially that of the compartmentalisation of grazing areas for game. Careful pre-planning can surmount the negative aspects of establishing collaborative !lature reserves and the advantages can be maximally utilised.
- Full Text:
The environmental impact of the Robinson Deep mine residue deposit, Johannesburg
- Authors: Collister, Grant
- Date: 2008-05-26T06:29:19Z
- Subjects: Environmental impact of gold mines and mining , Acid mine drainage , Environmental impact analysis , Johannesburg (South Africa)
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:2223 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/462
- Description: The environmental impact of the Robinson Deep mine residue deposit in Johannesburg was assessed by evaluating the water chemistry and surface precipitates, thereby identifying the processes responsible for forming the contamination footprint. Precipitates were compared to a documented paragenetic sequence of mineral formation associated with sulphide rich mine waste. PHREEQC, a geochemical modelling tool, was utilized to predict the formation of precipitates from evaporation ponds. The chemistry of the leachate was analysed and compared to water quality standards in order to determine the possible environmental impact. The chemistry of the water emanating from the mine residue deposit reveals that an Fe-SO4 dominant chemistry persists, this is consistent with acid mine drainage environments. The most toxic cations and anions contained in the water are Fe, Al, Mn, Ca, As, Mg, Cu, Zn, Pb and SO . It is predicted that the impact of toxic metals identified in the water decreases further from the mine residue deposit due to dilution and co-precipitation with different mineral phases such as goethite. Precipitates identified include jarosite group minerals, goethite, melanterite, copiapite, Mg-copiapite, halotrichite, pickeringite, gypsum and alunogen. These secondary minerals may be used as indicator minerals of acid mine drainage. Assessment and prediction of the stage of contamination and possible environmental impact, may, therefore be pursued when comparing the indicator minerals to predicted paragenetic sequences. For example, the precipitation of melanterite is consistent with an early stage of acid mine drainage development. The presence of melanterite thus suggests that oxidation of sulphides is an ongoing process on the Robinson Deep mine residue deposit. Evaporation of water in the evaporation ponds aids in increasing the concentration, hence allowing the predominant precipitation of jarosite group minerals. Alternatively, rainfall dilutes the water allowing dissolution of minerals located on the banks of the evaporation ponds to predominate. This mechanism of precipitation and dissolution is seasonal; formation of precipitates predominates during the dry season, while dissolution is most prominent during the wet season. The development of hardpans indicates that the main mechanism of formation of the associated phases is through capillary action at the sediment surface. Leaching of Fe2+-rich water from the mine residue deposit containment area is indicated by the presence of copiapite, while jarosite and goethite formation tend to form part of a hardpan layer. Goethite is an indication of a late stage mineral predominant at lower sulphate and higher pH conditions. Results of predicted formation of precipitates by PHREEQC are not in very good agreement with actual field observations. This is mainly due to the lack of thermodynamic data for many of the sulphate minerals observed. Hence, precipitates associated with acid mine drainage may be utilized as indicator minerals. Consequently, there identification may facilitate in environmental monitoring and risk assessment. , Prof. J. M. Huizenga Prof. J. Gutzmer
- Full Text:
- Authors: Collister, Grant
- Date: 2008-05-26T06:29:19Z
- Subjects: Environmental impact of gold mines and mining , Acid mine drainage , Environmental impact analysis , Johannesburg (South Africa)
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:2223 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/462
- Description: The environmental impact of the Robinson Deep mine residue deposit in Johannesburg was assessed by evaluating the water chemistry and surface precipitates, thereby identifying the processes responsible for forming the contamination footprint. Precipitates were compared to a documented paragenetic sequence of mineral formation associated with sulphide rich mine waste. PHREEQC, a geochemical modelling tool, was utilized to predict the formation of precipitates from evaporation ponds. The chemistry of the leachate was analysed and compared to water quality standards in order to determine the possible environmental impact. The chemistry of the water emanating from the mine residue deposit reveals that an Fe-SO4 dominant chemistry persists, this is consistent with acid mine drainage environments. The most toxic cations and anions contained in the water are Fe, Al, Mn, Ca, As, Mg, Cu, Zn, Pb and SO . It is predicted that the impact of toxic metals identified in the water decreases further from the mine residue deposit due to dilution and co-precipitation with different mineral phases such as goethite. Precipitates identified include jarosite group minerals, goethite, melanterite, copiapite, Mg-copiapite, halotrichite, pickeringite, gypsum and alunogen. These secondary minerals may be used as indicator minerals of acid mine drainage. Assessment and prediction of the stage of contamination and possible environmental impact, may, therefore be pursued when comparing the indicator minerals to predicted paragenetic sequences. For example, the precipitation of melanterite is consistent with an early stage of acid mine drainage development. The presence of melanterite thus suggests that oxidation of sulphides is an ongoing process on the Robinson Deep mine residue deposit. Evaporation of water in the evaporation ponds aids in increasing the concentration, hence allowing the predominant precipitation of jarosite group minerals. Alternatively, rainfall dilutes the water allowing dissolution of minerals located on the banks of the evaporation ponds to predominate. This mechanism of precipitation and dissolution is seasonal; formation of precipitates predominates during the dry season, while dissolution is most prominent during the wet season. The development of hardpans indicates that the main mechanism of formation of the associated phases is through capillary action at the sediment surface. Leaching of Fe2+-rich water from the mine residue deposit containment area is indicated by the presence of copiapite, while jarosite and goethite formation tend to form part of a hardpan layer. Goethite is an indication of a late stage mineral predominant at lower sulphate and higher pH conditions. Results of predicted formation of precipitates by PHREEQC are not in very good agreement with actual field observations. This is mainly due to the lack of thermodynamic data for many of the sulphate minerals observed. Hence, precipitates associated with acid mine drainage may be utilized as indicator minerals. Consequently, there identification may facilitate in environmental monitoring and risk assessment. , Prof. J. M. Huizenga Prof. J. Gutzmer
- Full Text:
Strategic environmental assessment for sustainable urban design: case study Ekurhuleni
- Authors: Malan, Johan Christoph
- Date: 2010-10-04T09:02:39Z
- Subjects: Environmental impact analysis , City planning
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:6927 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/3437
- Description: M.Phil. , The urban environment, as a concentration of human industrial activity, has an ecological footprint extending well beyond its geographic borders. The reactive nature of Environmental Impact Assessment methodologies focuses on impacts in the natural environment, and mitigation thereof, rather than the causes, and since cities incorporate only limited natural resources, their impact on the larger environment is easily overlooked within the urban setting. Urban design and planning aims to guide urban development, and in order for such development to occur sustainably in the natural, built, social and economic environments, a strategic approach to environmental assessment must be followed. This study explores the merits of a strategic environmental assessment as a pro-active methodology to guide urban master-plan development at precinct level towards more sustainable urban layout and form. The Civic Precinct of the newly formed Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality, to be established within the heart of Germiston, South Africa, serves as a case study. Having contextualized strategic assessments in an urban environment on the basis of a literature review, the study defines the development vision on the basis of higher-tier strategic documents and planning frameworks formulated for Ekurhuleni. Screening explores the legal parameters, and serves to define a vision specifically for sustainability of the Civic Precinct. Scoping has been conducted with reference to existing research data available from highertier studies and GIS databases, and at precinct-specific level fieldwork has provided both qualitative and quantitative status quo data, which have been transferred onto maps to highlight resources and constraints. At an applied level this study has yielded direct outcomes: i) A matrix of criteria for sustainability in the urban environment has been generated from the United Nations Agenda 21, and the Plan of Implementation from the World Summit on Sustainable Development (Johannesburg, 2002), supplemented by assessment criteria of the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design for Neighbourhood Development Rating System. The matrix forms a generic checklist for planners and designers, applicable also in other urban renewal projects. ii) The review of higher-tier planning documentation for Ekurhuleni, supplemented by fieldwork, has provided a comprehensive set of qualitative and quantitative data relating to the environment of the Ekurhuleni Civic Precinct. iii) By relating the results of the fieldwork, through a SWOT analysis, to the predetermined criteria for sustainability, a project-specific set of sustainability guidelines has been formulated. These guidelines are direct design informants for the master-plan, and become specifications for sustainability of individual projects to be implemented in the context of the master-plan. Through these outcomes the case study demonstrates that an adapted strategic environmental assessment methodology offers an effective tool for pro-active focus on sustainability in lower-tier, pre-implementation urban planning and design processes. The study, however, also indicates that the geographic confines of an urban precinct may be too restrictive to do justice to all dimensions of sustainability which make up an urban system, and suggests that application of the SEA methodology should be explored at the broader level of the local spatial development plan, where the SEA methodology may be more economically applied. The local spatial development plan offers a more appropriate level at which to conduct strategic environmental assessment, since it offers a broader scope for strategic consideration of the interconnectedness of all spheres of sustainability, while still permitting sufficient detail in the outcomes to make a concrete difference to the sustainability of an urban design when implemented.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Malan, Johan Christoph
- Date: 2010-10-04T09:02:39Z
- Subjects: Environmental impact analysis , City planning
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:6927 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/3437
- Description: M.Phil. , The urban environment, as a concentration of human industrial activity, has an ecological footprint extending well beyond its geographic borders. The reactive nature of Environmental Impact Assessment methodologies focuses on impacts in the natural environment, and mitigation thereof, rather than the causes, and since cities incorporate only limited natural resources, their impact on the larger environment is easily overlooked within the urban setting. Urban design and planning aims to guide urban development, and in order for such development to occur sustainably in the natural, built, social and economic environments, a strategic approach to environmental assessment must be followed. This study explores the merits of a strategic environmental assessment as a pro-active methodology to guide urban master-plan development at precinct level towards more sustainable urban layout and form. The Civic Precinct of the newly formed Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality, to be established within the heart of Germiston, South Africa, serves as a case study. Having contextualized strategic assessments in an urban environment on the basis of a literature review, the study defines the development vision on the basis of higher-tier strategic documents and planning frameworks formulated for Ekurhuleni. Screening explores the legal parameters, and serves to define a vision specifically for sustainability of the Civic Precinct. Scoping has been conducted with reference to existing research data available from highertier studies and GIS databases, and at precinct-specific level fieldwork has provided both qualitative and quantitative status quo data, which have been transferred onto maps to highlight resources and constraints. At an applied level this study has yielded direct outcomes: i) A matrix of criteria for sustainability in the urban environment has been generated from the United Nations Agenda 21, and the Plan of Implementation from the World Summit on Sustainable Development (Johannesburg, 2002), supplemented by assessment criteria of the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design for Neighbourhood Development Rating System. The matrix forms a generic checklist for planners and designers, applicable also in other urban renewal projects. ii) The review of higher-tier planning documentation for Ekurhuleni, supplemented by fieldwork, has provided a comprehensive set of qualitative and quantitative data relating to the environment of the Ekurhuleni Civic Precinct. iii) By relating the results of the fieldwork, through a SWOT analysis, to the predetermined criteria for sustainability, a project-specific set of sustainability guidelines has been formulated. These guidelines are direct design informants for the master-plan, and become specifications for sustainability of individual projects to be implemented in the context of the master-plan. Through these outcomes the case study demonstrates that an adapted strategic environmental assessment methodology offers an effective tool for pro-active focus on sustainability in lower-tier, pre-implementation urban planning and design processes. The study, however, also indicates that the geographic confines of an urban precinct may be too restrictive to do justice to all dimensions of sustainability which make up an urban system, and suggests that application of the SEA methodology should be explored at the broader level of the local spatial development plan, where the SEA methodology may be more economically applied. The local spatial development plan offers a more appropriate level at which to conduct strategic environmental assessment, since it offers a broader scope for strategic consideration of the interconnectedness of all spheres of sustainability, while still permitting sufficient detail in the outcomes to make a concrete difference to the sustainability of an urban design when implemented.
- Full Text:
An EIA of Rietvlei farm's development as a conservation area within JMOSS management guidelines
- Authors: Van Niekerk, Liselle
- Date: 2009-02-02T07:14:43Z
- Subjects: Environmental management , Environmental impact analysis , Johannesburg (South Africa)
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:14862 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/1983
- Description: M.Sc.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Van Niekerk, Liselle
- Date: 2009-02-02T07:14:43Z
- Subjects: Environmental management , Environmental impact analysis , Johannesburg (South Africa)
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:14862 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/1983
- Description: M.Sc.
- Full Text:
A comparative environmental analysis of fossil fuel electricity generation options for South Africa
- Authors: Govender, Indran
- Date: 2009-02-05T07:10:25Z
- Subjects: Environmental impact analysis , Coal-fired power plants , Gas-turbine power-plants , Fossil fuel power plants , Integrated gasification combined cycle power plants
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:8074 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/2004
- Description: M.Sc. , The increased demand for electricity in South Africa is expected to exceed supply between 2004 and 2007. Electricity supply options in the country would be further complicated by the fact that older power stations would reach the end of their design life beyond the year 2025. In light of this and considering the long lead times required for the commissioning of new plants, new power supply options need to be proactively investigated. The environmental impacts associated with coal-fired generation of electricity have resulted in increased global concern over the past decade. To reduce these impacts, new technologies have been identified to help provide electricity from fossil fuels. The alternatives considered are gas-fired generation technologies and the Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle (IGCC). This study attempts to document and understand the environmental aspects related to gas-fired and IGCC electricity generation and evaluate their advantages in comparison to conventional pulverised coal fired power generation. The options that could be utilised to make fossil fuel electricity generation more environmentally friendly, whilst remaining economically feasible, were also evaluated. Gas-fired electricity generation is extremely successful as electricity generation systems in the world due to inherently low levels of emissions, high efficiencies, fuel flexibility and reduced demand on finite resources. Associated benefits of a Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) are lower operating costs due to the reduced water consumption, smaller equipment size and a reduction in the wastewater that has to be treated before being returned to the environment. A CCGT plant requires less cooling water and can be located on a smaller area than a conventional Pulverised Fuel (PF) power station of the same capacity. All these factors reduce the burden on the environment. A CCGT also employs processes that utilises the energy of the fuel more efficiently, with the current efficiencies approaching 60%. Instead of simply being discharged into the atmosphere, the gas turbines’ exhaust gas heat is used to produce additional output in combination with a Heat Recovery Steam Generator (HRSG) and a steam turbine. Furthermore, as finite resources become increasingly scarce and energy has to be used as wisely as possible, generating electricity economically and in an ecologically sound manner is of the utmost importance. The clean, reliable operation of gas-fired generation systems with significantly reduced noise levels and their compact design makes their operation feasible in heavily populated areas, where electricity is needed most. At the same time, energy can be consumed in whatever form needed, i.e. as electricity, heat or steam. The dependence of the South African economy on cheap coal ensures that it will remain a vital component of future electricity generation options in the country. This dominance of coal-fired generation in the country is responsible for South Africa’s title as the largest generator of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions on the continent and the country could possibly be requested to reduce its CO2 emissions at the next international meeting of signatories to the Kyoto Protocol. Carbon dioxide emissions can be reduced by utilising gas-fired generation technologies. However, the uncertainty and costs associated with natural gas in South Africa hampers the implementation of this technology. There are currently a number of initiatives surrounding the development of natural gas in the country, viz. the Pande and Temane projects in Mozambique and the Kudu project in Namibia, and this is likely to positively influence the choice of fuel utilised for electricity generation in the future. The economic viability of these projects would be further enhanced through the obtaining of Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) credits for greenhouse gases (GHG) emissions reduction. Alternatively, more efficient methods of generating electricity from coal must be developed and implemented. IGCC is capable of achieving this because of the high efficiencies associated with the combined cycle component of the technology. These higher efficiencies result in reduced emissions to the atmosphere for an equivalent unit of electricity generated from a PF station. An IGCC system can be successful in South Africa in that it combines the benefits of utilising gas-fired electricity generation systems whilst utilising economically feasible fuel, i.e. coal. IGCC systems can economically meet strict air pollution emission standards, produce water effluent within environmental limits, produce an environmentally benign slag, with good potential as a saleable by-product, and recover a valuable sulphur commodity by-product. Life-cycle analyses performed on IGCC power plants have identified CO2 release and natural resource depletion as their most significant positive lifecycle impacts, which testifies to the IGCC’s low pollutant releases and benign by-products. Recent studies have also shown that these plants can be built to efficiently accommodate future CO2 capture technology that could further reduce environmental impacts. The outstanding environmental performance of IGCC makes it an excellent technology for the clean production of electricity. IGCC systems also provide flexibility in the production of a wide range of products including electricity, fuels, chemicals, hydrogen, and steam, while utilizing low-cost, widely available feedstocks. Coal-based gasification systems provide an energy production alternative that is more efficient and environmentally friendly than competing coalfuelled technologies. The obstacle to the large-scale implementation of this technology in the country is the high costs associated with the technology. CDM credits and by-products sales could possible enhance the viability of implementing these technologies in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Govender, Indran
- Date: 2009-02-05T07:10:25Z
- Subjects: Environmental impact analysis , Coal-fired power plants , Gas-turbine power-plants , Fossil fuel power plants , Integrated gasification combined cycle power plants
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:8074 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/2004
- Description: M.Sc. , The increased demand for electricity in South Africa is expected to exceed supply between 2004 and 2007. Electricity supply options in the country would be further complicated by the fact that older power stations would reach the end of their design life beyond the year 2025. In light of this and considering the long lead times required for the commissioning of new plants, new power supply options need to be proactively investigated. The environmental impacts associated with coal-fired generation of electricity have resulted in increased global concern over the past decade. To reduce these impacts, new technologies have been identified to help provide electricity from fossil fuels. The alternatives considered are gas-fired generation technologies and the Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle (IGCC). This study attempts to document and understand the environmental aspects related to gas-fired and IGCC electricity generation and evaluate their advantages in comparison to conventional pulverised coal fired power generation. The options that could be utilised to make fossil fuel electricity generation more environmentally friendly, whilst remaining economically feasible, were also evaluated. Gas-fired electricity generation is extremely successful as electricity generation systems in the world due to inherently low levels of emissions, high efficiencies, fuel flexibility and reduced demand on finite resources. Associated benefits of a Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) are lower operating costs due to the reduced water consumption, smaller equipment size and a reduction in the wastewater that has to be treated before being returned to the environment. A CCGT plant requires less cooling water and can be located on a smaller area than a conventional Pulverised Fuel (PF) power station of the same capacity. All these factors reduce the burden on the environment. A CCGT also employs processes that utilises the energy of the fuel more efficiently, with the current efficiencies approaching 60%. Instead of simply being discharged into the atmosphere, the gas turbines’ exhaust gas heat is used to produce additional output in combination with a Heat Recovery Steam Generator (HRSG) and a steam turbine. Furthermore, as finite resources become increasingly scarce and energy has to be used as wisely as possible, generating electricity economically and in an ecologically sound manner is of the utmost importance. The clean, reliable operation of gas-fired generation systems with significantly reduced noise levels and their compact design makes their operation feasible in heavily populated areas, where electricity is needed most. At the same time, energy can be consumed in whatever form needed, i.e. as electricity, heat or steam. The dependence of the South African economy on cheap coal ensures that it will remain a vital component of future electricity generation options in the country. This dominance of coal-fired generation in the country is responsible for South Africa’s title as the largest generator of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions on the continent and the country could possibly be requested to reduce its CO2 emissions at the next international meeting of signatories to the Kyoto Protocol. Carbon dioxide emissions can be reduced by utilising gas-fired generation technologies. However, the uncertainty and costs associated with natural gas in South Africa hampers the implementation of this technology. There are currently a number of initiatives surrounding the development of natural gas in the country, viz. the Pande and Temane projects in Mozambique and the Kudu project in Namibia, and this is likely to positively influence the choice of fuel utilised for electricity generation in the future. The economic viability of these projects would be further enhanced through the obtaining of Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) credits for greenhouse gases (GHG) emissions reduction. Alternatively, more efficient methods of generating electricity from coal must be developed and implemented. IGCC is capable of achieving this because of the high efficiencies associated with the combined cycle component of the technology. These higher efficiencies result in reduced emissions to the atmosphere for an equivalent unit of electricity generated from a PF station. An IGCC system can be successful in South Africa in that it combines the benefits of utilising gas-fired electricity generation systems whilst utilising economically feasible fuel, i.e. coal. IGCC systems can economically meet strict air pollution emission standards, produce water effluent within environmental limits, produce an environmentally benign slag, with good potential as a saleable by-product, and recover a valuable sulphur commodity by-product. Life-cycle analyses performed on IGCC power plants have identified CO2 release and natural resource depletion as their most significant positive lifecycle impacts, which testifies to the IGCC’s low pollutant releases and benign by-products. Recent studies have also shown that these plants can be built to efficiently accommodate future CO2 capture technology that could further reduce environmental impacts. The outstanding environmental performance of IGCC makes it an excellent technology for the clean production of electricity. IGCC systems also provide flexibility in the production of a wide range of products including electricity, fuels, chemicals, hydrogen, and steam, while utilizing low-cost, widely available feedstocks. Coal-based gasification systems provide an energy production alternative that is more efficient and environmentally friendly than competing coalfuelled technologies. The obstacle to the large-scale implementation of this technology in the country is the high costs associated with the technology. CDM credits and by-products sales could possible enhance the viability of implementing these technologies in South Africa.
- Full Text:
An evaluation of a public participation process for fairness and competence
- Authors: Oosthuizen, Marita
- Date: 2008-06-20T13:44:00Z
- Subjects: Public opinion , Environmental impact analysis , Environmental impact analysis law and legislation , Pebble bed reactors , Koeberg (Nuclear power station)
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:3185 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/659
- Description: Public participation can be defined as ...”a process leading to a joint effort by stakeholders, technical specialists, the authorities and the proponent who work together to produce better decisions than if they had acted independently" (Greyling, 1999, p. 20). In South Africa, public participation processes are legally driven and form part a statutory part of environmental impact assessments. Many environmental impact assessments have been undertaken in South Africa, but the environmental impact assessment undertaken for the proposed construction of a demonstration module pebble bed modular reactor was perhaps one of the biggest studies undertaken to date from a public participation process point of view (Smit, 2003). The main aim of this mini-dissertation was to evaluate the public participation process followed for the environmental impact assessment of the demonstration module pebble bed modular reactor at Koeberg in the Western Cape Province against the criteria for fairness and competence as set out by Webler (In: Renn et al., 1995). Despite the fact that this work is eleven years old, it is still regarded as a benchmark for the evaluation of public participation processes in environmental decision making (Abelson et al., 2003). Webler (In: Renn et al., 1995) developed a normative theory for fairness and competence in public participation based on the theory of ideal speech of German sociologist Jürgen Habermas. Habermas’ main contribution to science was his theory of universal pragmatics (Author unknown, 2005). Universal pragmatics is a theory aimed at explaining how language is used to ensure mutual understanding and agreement. Webler (In: Renn et al., 1995) argues that the conditions of universal pragmatics, if applied to public participation, points towards the concepts of fairness (providing everyone with the opportunity to participate) and competence [providing participants (called interested and affected parties (I&APs) with the opportunity to make, question and validate speech acts]. Habermas advocates that each statement (or speech act) makes at least one validity claim and that there is a presupposition that the speaker can validate each claim to the satisfaction of all communication partners, should this be necessary (Perold, 2006). Furthermore, Habermas identifies four different types of validity claims, each having to do with a specific type of statement. In his theory, communicative speech acts have to do with comprehensibility; constantive speech acts with truth/correctness; regulative speech acts with normative rightness and representative speech acts with sincerity. Webler (In: Renn et al., 1995) developed a set of criteria to evaluate the fairness and competence in public participation. This set of criteria was applied to the public participation process of the case study. The study found that the process followed in the case study did not fare particularly well in either fairness or competence, but that fairness was slightly better than competence. The most alarming finding was that little attempt was made to ensure that validity claims – especially constantive (truth and factual information) – were validated or redeemed as this left the door open for misinterpretation, politics and incorrectness. It was also found that I&APs were, for the most, prevented from participating in the decision-making process. This finding may or may not be interpreted as negative as the public participation consultant never made a claim towards power sharing as well as the fact that there are widely differing opinions regarding the level to which public participation should take place. It was suggested that at least some elements of power sharing be incorporated into future processes, that validity claims – especially constantive (theoretical/factual) and therapeutic (regarding feelings and emotions) – must be able to stand up to scrutiny and should be validated. Finally, it was suggested that more attention be given to representative speech acts (statements regarding emotions, perceptions and feelings). , Dr. J. M. Meeuwis
- Full Text:
- Authors: Oosthuizen, Marita
- Date: 2008-06-20T13:44:00Z
- Subjects: Public opinion , Environmental impact analysis , Environmental impact analysis law and legislation , Pebble bed reactors , Koeberg (Nuclear power station)
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:3185 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/659
- Description: Public participation can be defined as ...”a process leading to a joint effort by stakeholders, technical specialists, the authorities and the proponent who work together to produce better decisions than if they had acted independently" (Greyling, 1999, p. 20). In South Africa, public participation processes are legally driven and form part a statutory part of environmental impact assessments. Many environmental impact assessments have been undertaken in South Africa, but the environmental impact assessment undertaken for the proposed construction of a demonstration module pebble bed modular reactor was perhaps one of the biggest studies undertaken to date from a public participation process point of view (Smit, 2003). The main aim of this mini-dissertation was to evaluate the public participation process followed for the environmental impact assessment of the demonstration module pebble bed modular reactor at Koeberg in the Western Cape Province against the criteria for fairness and competence as set out by Webler (In: Renn et al., 1995). Despite the fact that this work is eleven years old, it is still regarded as a benchmark for the evaluation of public participation processes in environmental decision making (Abelson et al., 2003). Webler (In: Renn et al., 1995) developed a normative theory for fairness and competence in public participation based on the theory of ideal speech of German sociologist Jürgen Habermas. Habermas’ main contribution to science was his theory of universal pragmatics (Author unknown, 2005). Universal pragmatics is a theory aimed at explaining how language is used to ensure mutual understanding and agreement. Webler (In: Renn et al., 1995) argues that the conditions of universal pragmatics, if applied to public participation, points towards the concepts of fairness (providing everyone with the opportunity to participate) and competence [providing participants (called interested and affected parties (I&APs) with the opportunity to make, question and validate speech acts]. Habermas advocates that each statement (or speech act) makes at least one validity claim and that there is a presupposition that the speaker can validate each claim to the satisfaction of all communication partners, should this be necessary (Perold, 2006). Furthermore, Habermas identifies four different types of validity claims, each having to do with a specific type of statement. In his theory, communicative speech acts have to do with comprehensibility; constantive speech acts with truth/correctness; regulative speech acts with normative rightness and representative speech acts with sincerity. Webler (In: Renn et al., 1995) developed a set of criteria to evaluate the fairness and competence in public participation. This set of criteria was applied to the public participation process of the case study. The study found that the process followed in the case study did not fare particularly well in either fairness or competence, but that fairness was slightly better than competence. The most alarming finding was that little attempt was made to ensure that validity claims – especially constantive (truth and factual information) – were validated or redeemed as this left the door open for misinterpretation, politics and incorrectness. It was also found that I&APs were, for the most, prevented from participating in the decision-making process. This finding may or may not be interpreted as negative as the public participation consultant never made a claim towards power sharing as well as the fact that there are widely differing opinions regarding the level to which public participation should take place. It was suggested that at least some elements of power sharing be incorporated into future processes, that validity claims – especially constantive (theoretical/factual) and therapeutic (regarding feelings and emotions) – must be able to stand up to scrutiny and should be validated. Finally, it was suggested that more attention be given to representative speech acts (statements regarding emotions, perceptions and feelings). , Dr. J. M. Meeuwis
- Full Text:
Information requirements for the integration of environmental impact assessment in the greater Florida Lake development area
- Authors: Koekemoer, Pieter
- Date: 2012-08-29
- Subjects: Environmental impact analysis , Environmental impact analysis - South Africa - Johannesburg , Environmental law - South Africa , Geographic information systems
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:3414 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/6811
- Description: M.Sc. , The city of today is a major performer for the secondary sector of the economy. Manufacturing and processing facilities not only provide the city with the essential commodity inputs but also provide the means of living for the populace. Of late, ad-hoc decisions for industrial development have led to an adverse impact on the local environment at costs which are much higher than the benefits actually accrued. In view of the deteriorating environmental conditions in and around industrial townships, it has become necessary to account for the environment while planning for such areas. South African EIA regulations promulgated in 1997 require that environmental parameters are to be taken into consideration with proposed development. To enable the equitable evaluation of the assessments, the same base information would need to be used for all proposals. This study aims to identify the information requirements and responsibilities at local government level to enable equitable evaluation of EIA's as part of their development impact assessment process for proposed development. The information requirements are illustrated at hand of the Proposed Greater Florida Lake Urban Development Plan adopted by the Western Metropolitan Local Council of the Greater Johannesburg Metropolitan Council.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Koekemoer, Pieter
- Date: 2012-08-29
- Subjects: Environmental impact analysis , Environmental impact analysis - South Africa - Johannesburg , Environmental law - South Africa , Geographic information systems
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:3414 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/6811
- Description: M.Sc. , The city of today is a major performer for the secondary sector of the economy. Manufacturing and processing facilities not only provide the city with the essential commodity inputs but also provide the means of living for the populace. Of late, ad-hoc decisions for industrial development have led to an adverse impact on the local environment at costs which are much higher than the benefits actually accrued. In view of the deteriorating environmental conditions in and around industrial townships, it has become necessary to account for the environment while planning for such areas. South African EIA regulations promulgated in 1997 require that environmental parameters are to be taken into consideration with proposed development. To enable the equitable evaluation of the assessments, the same base information would need to be used for all proposals. This study aims to identify the information requirements and responsibilities at local government level to enable equitable evaluation of EIA's as part of their development impact assessment process for proposed development. The information requirements are illustrated at hand of the Proposed Greater Florida Lake Urban Development Plan adopted by the Western Metropolitan Local Council of the Greater Johannesburg Metropolitan Council.
- Full Text:
Strategic environmental assessment (sea) supporting the transition to renewable energy in South Africa
- Authors: Fischer, Delmarie
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Environmental impact analysis , Renewable energy , Strategic planning - Environmental aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/400995 , uj:33492
- Description: Abstract : This study addresses the criticism that environmental impact assessment in South Africa, may pose a threat to achieving the development objectives of the National Development Plan, thereby impacting on the ability of the country to deal with the challenges of poverty, inequality and joblessness. The purpose of this study is to identify possible contributions that implementing sector specific Strategic Environmental Assessments (SEAs) can make to improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the project-level impact assessment process, using the renewable energy sector as a pilot. The experience of implementing the energy SEAs will be used to enhance the existing SEA design criteria to enable SEAs to be more easily utilised by the government to influence decision-making and contribute to sustainable development. Possible successes in this sector could translate to other sectors and improve the ability to meet the countries development objectives while promoting sustainability. The energy focus of this study relates to the global concern relating to the impacts of climate change and the commitment of the South African government to transition the country towards a low carbon economy. As part of realising this objective, renewable energy technologies are being advanced through the implementation of the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producers Procurement Programme (REI4P). This programme, which is based on competitive bidding, will see 17.8 GW of renewable energy introduced into the energy mix by 2030. As a pre-bid requirement, prospective bidders must undertake a project level Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and be in possession of an Environmental Authorisation. This requirement resulted in over 900 applications for environmental authorisation being submitted for consideration for the first phase of bidding, of which only 9% proceeded to construction. These statistics point to inefficiencies within the procurement and authorisation processes and highlights the need to move to a strategic approach when implementing large scale priority development projects. Data gathering included the review and evaluation of four commercial scale wind-energy environmental impact assessments and two energy sector strategic environmental assessments against previously researched EIA and SEA effectiveness criteria. This research contributes to the debate on the effectiveness of SEA with an emphasis on designing SEAs for implementation. The research would be of interest to environmental practitioners, government and scholars of integrated environmental management. , D.Phil. (Geography)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Fischer, Delmarie
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Environmental impact analysis , Renewable energy , Strategic planning - Environmental aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/400995 , uj:33492
- Description: Abstract : This study addresses the criticism that environmental impact assessment in South Africa, may pose a threat to achieving the development objectives of the National Development Plan, thereby impacting on the ability of the country to deal with the challenges of poverty, inequality and joblessness. The purpose of this study is to identify possible contributions that implementing sector specific Strategic Environmental Assessments (SEAs) can make to improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the project-level impact assessment process, using the renewable energy sector as a pilot. The experience of implementing the energy SEAs will be used to enhance the existing SEA design criteria to enable SEAs to be more easily utilised by the government to influence decision-making and contribute to sustainable development. Possible successes in this sector could translate to other sectors and improve the ability to meet the countries development objectives while promoting sustainability. The energy focus of this study relates to the global concern relating to the impacts of climate change and the commitment of the South African government to transition the country towards a low carbon economy. As part of realising this objective, renewable energy technologies are being advanced through the implementation of the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producers Procurement Programme (REI4P). This programme, which is based on competitive bidding, will see 17.8 GW of renewable energy introduced into the energy mix by 2030. As a pre-bid requirement, prospective bidders must undertake a project level Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and be in possession of an Environmental Authorisation. This requirement resulted in over 900 applications for environmental authorisation being submitted for consideration for the first phase of bidding, of which only 9% proceeded to construction. These statistics point to inefficiencies within the procurement and authorisation processes and highlights the need to move to a strategic approach when implementing large scale priority development projects. Data gathering included the review and evaluation of four commercial scale wind-energy environmental impact assessments and two energy sector strategic environmental assessments against previously researched EIA and SEA effectiveness criteria. This research contributes to the debate on the effectiveness of SEA with an emphasis on designing SEAs for implementation. The research would be of interest to environmental practitioners, government and scholars of integrated environmental management. , D.Phil. (Geography)
- Full Text:
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