Limpopo Environmental Outlook Report Stakeholder Engagement Report

Transcription

1 Limpopo Environmental Outlook Report 2016 Stakeholder Engagement Report Version 3 3 March 2016 EcoAfrica Environmental Consultants (Pty) Ltd 35 Theiler Street, Irene, Pretoria, 0157 Tel: , Fax: ecoafrica@ecoafrica.co.za Website:

2 Limpopo Environmental Outlook 2016 Issues and Themes Process Document Table of Contents List of Tables... ii List of Figures... ii 1. Introduction Purpose of the Limpopo Environmental Outlook Report Stakeholder Engagement Methodology Outcomes Steering Committee Meeting: 20 th August Capricorn Environmental Management Forum Meeting: 10 th September Limpopo Provincial Department of Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (CoGHSTA): 11 th September District Level Stakeholder Workshops: 30 th November to 03 rd December Top Priority Environmental Issues Summary of Issues Raised Under the Ten Environmental Themes The Next Steps APPENDIX 1: List of Meetings and Workshops APPENDIX 2: Stakeholder Map APPENDIX3: List of Attendees - Workshops and Steering Committee Meetings List of Tables Table 1: Summary of analysis of ten environmental themes.. 5 Table 2: Summary of analysis of ten environmental themes Table 3: Summary of key recommendations from stakeholders...16 List of Figures Figure 1: LEO Project Process Diagram... 3 Figure 2: Steering Committee members identifying environmental issues... 5 Figure 3: Steering Committee members prioritizing environmental issues... 5 ii

3 1. Introduction The Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism (LEDET) of the Limpopo Provincial Government has appointed EcoAfrica Environmental Consultants (Pty) Ltd (EcoAfrica) to assist with the process of developing the Limpopo Environmental Outlook (LEO) Report. Recent amendments to the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA), 1998 (NEMA, 1998) included under the National Environmental Management Laws Second Amendment Act (Act 30 of 2013) 1, require the compilation of State of Environment Reports as a mandatory obligation for national and provincial tiers of Government. The objectives of the LEO Report include the following: Provide an overview of the Limpopo Province Environment; Identify environmental issues and challenges facing the Limpopo Province; Describe environmental management responses and recommendations; Provide a set of environmental indicators and describe the status of monitoring. As part of the process of developing the LEO Report, 2016, various meetings and workshops have been held with stakeholders. The aim of the workshops was to introduce the project and process, identify environmental issues that need to be addressed by the LEO Report, 2016, and gain input regarding opportunities and actions that are required. LEDET has established a Project Steering Committee (PSC), comprising of members from the Limpopo Provincial Government, and the District and Local Municipalities in Limpopo Province. The purpose of the PSC is to assist and provide overall guidance to the process as the project progresses, and provide technical inputs into the draft reports. 2. Purpose of the Limpopo Environmental Outlook Report The purpose of the LEO Report is to provide scientifically-credible, timely, policy-relevant information on the current and future environmental states, environmental trends and prospects and their interactions with human well-being, to inform sound decision-making, pertaining to the environment. The Limpopo Environmental Outlook reporting process seeks to enhance the quality, accessibility and relevance of information to enable decisionmakers to adopt an integrated and longer term perspective on the sustainable use of the natural resources and improving the quality of life of the citizens of the Limpopo Province into the future. The LEO Report, therefore, provides a moment to take stock and assess the current state of environmental resources, the trends in their use and priority concerns. It also looks to the future through various likely scenarios to highlight how a range of inter-related measures may either 1 1

4 enhance or undermine the environmental resilience of the Limpopo Province. This resilience is critical to further strengthen the Limpopo Province and the chances of its people and the economy to best navigate environmental changes. According to the draft directive, issued in terms of the National Environmental Management Laws Second Amendment Act (Act 30 of 2013), the objectives of the Environment Outlook Report are to: Provide objective, accurate and scientifically credible information about the condition and prospects of the environment; Increase stakeholder awareness and understanding of state of the environment and trends, and their causes and consequences; Facilitate the measurement of progress toward achieving environmental standards and targets; Provide early warnings in terms of environmental degradation; Make recommendations and influence the strengthening of environmental policies and programmes aimed at the remediation of environmental degradation; and Provide a foundation for improved decision-making at all levels. 3. Stakeholder Engagement Stakeholder engagement is a key part of the process of developing the LEO Report, as this allows for a better understanding of the environmental issues, causes and impacts on people and communities. Furthermore, stakeholder engagement facilitate the identification of methodologies for the implementation of sustainable development in Limpopo Province. Figure 1 provides an overview of the project process, illustratinghow issues and opportunities identification forms the basis of developing the LEO Report. The 1 st stage in the process focus on the development of the relevant chapters as stand-alone Discussion Papers, forming the 1 st DRAFT LEO Report. The 2 nd DRAFT LEO Report is then drafted, incorporating inputs and comments by the PSC and various stakeholders. The 2 nd DRAFT LEO Report is then finalised as the LEO Report, 2016, which will be accompanied by a Policy Brief, as well as an online version in the form of a web-based platform. Stakeholder engagement is important throughout the process of developing the LEO Report. Public meetings and workshops are used to engage stakeholders. This report details the outcomes of the public meetings and workshops, highlighting the issues identified during the 1 st round of district-level workshops, as well as issues identified in 2

5 meetings prior to the workshops. These issues form the basis of the LEO Report, and provide the impetus towards which the report and related recommendations must respond. A 2 nd round of public meetings was conductedin which findings were presented and inputs from stakeholders were discussed. Figure 1: LEO Project Process Diagramme 4. Methodology Various workshops and meetings were conducted across the Limpopo Province. More detail on the workshops and meetings is provided in Appendix 1. Invitations were distributed to all identified and registered stakeholders (refer to Appendix 2 for the stakeholder map) across and/or involved with the Limpopo Province. LEDET also invited stakeholders to the public consultation meetings in both rounds 1 and 2. At each of the 1 st round of workshops, conducted in the Limpopo Province, the various themes, relating to the state of the environment, were introduced to the participants, namely: 1. Climate Change; 2. Land and Transformation; 3. Water Resources; 4. Biodiversity and Ecosystem Health; 5. Energy; 6. Human Settlements; 7. Waste Management; 8. Economics; 9. Environmental Governance; and 10. Air Quality. 3

6 Following this, an assessment activity was undertaken with participants in order to identify priority issues, which were then placed under the related theme. Participants were provided with three different coloured cards: red, orange and green. Participants were then invited to identify environmental issues specific to their district municipality, as being 1 st, 2 nd and 3 rd priority. The issues, identified by the participants, were rated according to their priority on the different coloured cards. 5. Outcomes Various environmental issues were identified during stakeholder engagement meetings, including the Steering Committee Meeting: 20 th August 2015, Capricorn Environmental Management Forum Meeting: 10th September 2015, Limpopo Provincial Department of Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (CoGHSTA): 11th September 2015, and the second round of District Level Stakeholder Workshops: February In keeping with the assessment methodology, the environmental issues, identified by the stakeholders from all the workshops and meetings, are listed in Table 2, and categorised according to the 10 thematic chapters of the 1st DRAFT LEO Report, as follows: 1. Climate Change; 2. Land and Transformation; 3. Water Resources; 4. Biodiversity and Ecosystem Health; 5. Energy; 6. Human Settlements; 7. Waste Management; 8. Economics; 9. Environmental Governance; and 10. Air Quality. 5.1 Steering Committee Meeting: 20 th August 2015 During the 1 st provincial Steering Committee meeting, SC members raised a large number of environmental issues which are, in their opinion, relevant to the Limpopo Province. Figure 2 illustrates the environmental concerns, identified by SC members during the SC meeting. Figure 3 illustratesthe grouped environmental issues being grouped according to the priorities allocated by the SC members, as well as the resulting prioritised issues. 5.2 Capricorn Environmental Management Forum Meeting: 10 th September 2015 At the Capricorn District Municipality in Polokwane, EcoAfrica introduced the Limpopo Environment Outlook project to the Environmental Management Forum. The attendees at the meeting were asked to complete Registration, Environmental Issues and 4

7 Opportunities Forms. The forms allowed attendees to detail information regarding the environmental challenges and opportunities that exist in the Capricorn District. Figure 2: Steering Committee members identifying environmental issues Figure 3: Steering Committee members prioritising environmental issues 5.3 Limpopo Provincial Department of Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (CoGHSTA): 11 th September 2015 The Limpopo Provincial Department of Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA) conducted a meeting on the 11 th of September 2015 at Loskop Dam, Limpopo. EcoAfrica presented the Limpopo Environment Outlook project at this meeting. The attendees were asked to complete Registration, Environmental Issues and Opportunities Forms. 5.4 District Level Stakeholder Workshops: 30 th November to 03 rd December 2015 The process of developing the LEO Report involved two rounds of stakeholder workshops at the district level. The 1 st round of these workshops was held from the 30 th November to the 3 rd December The itinerary for the workshops was as follows: Monday 30 November 2015: Mopani and Vhembe Districts (Giyani) Tuesday 01 December 2015: Capricorn and Sikukhunye Districts (Polokwane) Thursday 03 December 2015: Waterberg District (Modimolle) occurred 5

8 Thursday 17 February 2015: Vhembe District (Thohoyandou) 2 The 2 nd round of district level workshops were held from 15 to 18 February The itinerary for the workshops was as follows: Monday 15 February 2016: Capricorn District (Polokwane) Tuesday 16 February 2016: Mopani District (Giyani) Wednesday 17 February 2016: Sekhukhune District (Groblersdal) Thursday 18 February 2016: Vhembe District (Thohoyandou) The meetings were attended by national, district and local government officials, as well as individuals from NGOs and the private sector. 2 The assessment activity involving the identification of issues took place during the second round of stakeholder consultation meetings for the Vhembe district. 5

9 Table 1: Summary of Environmental Issues and Identified Opportunities Issue Categories Environmental Issues Identified Opportunities 1. Climate Change 1.1. Potential problem of climate change influencing the rainfall patterns, which may lead to water scarcity 1.2. Climate change is driving an increase in the Savannah Biome, which will impact species numbers, diversity, food security and water availability, and the like 1.3. Lack of information supplied to municipalities and communities on climate change Need for intensive education and awareness 1.4. Political and economic issues, pertaining to mitigating climate change 1.5. Climate change - emission of fumes by cars and industries Community awareness - plant more trees in open spaces 1.6. Deforestation exacerbating impacts of climate change Arbor day - planting of trees 1.7. Increasing temperatures 1.8. An increase in extreme events such as droughts, hail storms and floods Roll out renewal energy projects and coordinate efforts 2. Land and Transformation 2.1. Environmental degradation and limited availability of grazing land is negatively impacting communal land specifically 2.2. Inadequate integrated planning among the 3 spheres of government (local, provincial and national) 2.3. Oil spillage from motor mechanics operating on the road side Formulate and promulgate strict bylaws on motor mechanics 2.4. Deforestation for the purpose of energy (specifically rural areas) Small-scale farming 2.5. Uncontrolled urban sprawl; custodian of land between traditional and local municipalities More effective land use planning; Implementation of SPLUMA; buy in from political leadership/traditional leadership 2.6. Alien plant species invasion and removal of indigenous, medicinal plants 2.7. Informal settlements leading to land invasion Allocation of sites to reduce informal settlements 2.8. Lack of fertile land and soil degradation 2.9. Conflict between mining areas and proclaimed protected areas through mining in sensitive biodiversity areas (both legal and illegal mining); mining also provincial economic priority Mitigation and rehabilitation are not considered with illegal mining Illegal sand mining is causing land degradation 6

10 Issue Categories Environmental Issues Identified Opportunities Land and Transformation (Continued) Acid mine drainage is an increasing concern in the Province, particularly due to the growth of the mining sector Land degradation from mining, illegal sand mining (small businesses which rely on sand) Monitor mining activities Food security is compromised as there is conflict between residential and agricultural land use 3. Water Resources 3.1. Lack of access to clean water Rainwater harvesting; securing of wells and wetlands 3.2. Water shortage, unmanaged distribution, inadequate storm water management and poor maintenance leading to high volumes of water loss Water harvesting for agricultural purposes; Budget allocation for operation and maintenance of water related infrastructure prioritization 3.3. Water supply - inadequate quality and quantity of water in the Limpopo Province 3.4. Dependence and overuse of water/boreholes and non-functional boreholes in rural areas Water saving measures; payment for services 3.5. Water scarcity is causing conflict over access to both ground and surface water 3.6. Competition for water exists between different sectors and water resources are over utilised. There are insufficient water resources available to allocate to new developments. Reallocation of water is needed from different sectors, while binding agreements exist for the use of this water 3.7. Water pollution; groundwater pollution from pit latrines and water pollution in rivers; discharge of partially treated effluent in water resources; sewage contaminating rivers Water resource management - awareness; Working for Water programme; river cleaning campaigns; possibly fence rivers, where possible 3.8. Water pollution from mining activities Social and labour plans of mining companies 3.9. The discharge of waste water from mines and the agricultural sector into water courses is impacting the health of the surrounding community In some areas (Capricorn District), there is an overreliance on borehole water and a problem of sewage pollution, at the Nandoni Dam for instance Destruction of wetlands Drought decreasing water supply 7

11 Issue Categories Environmental Issues Identified Opportunities 4. Biodiversity and Ecosystem Health 4.1. Poaching of game 4.2. High unemployment resulting in a dependence on wood as a source of energy. High use of wood causing a decline in the tree population Clearing of indigenous vegetation for farming or development resulting in loss of indigenous plant species 4.4. A problem with alien invasive plant species especially in protected areas and near rivers 4.5. Veld fires are destroying biodiversity Organise fire belts 5. Energy 5.1. Still high dependence on wood for energy due to unaffordability of electricity Increase awareness on energy efficiency and exploration of renewable energy options 6. Human Settlements 6.1. High levels of pollution and inadequate waste management and monitoring in the Limpopo Province Increase opportunities for recycling, entrepreneurial skills; Green economy programmes; Monitoring of sanitation; Research into what to do with human waste could be used in other projects 6.2. Sewerage and waste water treatment is inadequate across the Limpopo Province and aging Proper management of waste water treatment plants; Budget allocation for operation and maintenance of sanitation related infrastructure prioritization 6.3. Poor transportation infrastructure and insufficient access to basic services 6.4. Increasing population resulting in high demand for low cost housing and an increasing number of informal settlements 6.5. Shortage of grazing land for livestock due to poor land use planning 6.6. Sewage or wastewater treatment facilities are not being planned and operated according to the legislated requirements - refer to Waste Water Status Quo Report 7. Waste Management 7.1. Littering, illegal dumping of waste in urban and rural areas is a concern and waste collection and management is inadequate in rural areas. Not enough landfill sites. Impacts of disposal nappies are a particular problem. Environmental management and awareness programmes; environmental education leading to an informed community; Environmental School Competitions; in all languages; develop more dumping sites; environmental awareness and education at schools; recycling opportunities; Encourage community to learn about waste management and the benefits thereof; Greenest Municipality competition; establish licensed land fill sites; extend refuse removal services to rural areas 8

12 Issue Category Environmental Issues Identified Opportunities Waste Management (Continued) 7.2. Inadequate recycling system and facilities in the Limpopo Province, that is recycled material is transported to the Gauteng Province Development of waste management facilities 7.3. Medical waste (HCRW) is not separated (at source) from general waste in healthcare facilities such as hospitals, and this results in medical waste being disposed of at general landfill sites. This is exacerbated by poor screening of incoming waste by personnel at general waste disposal sites (landfills) There is a lack for funding and personnel for the management of waste Slag from mineral concentrate processing at smelting industries like Polokwane Smelter, Silikon Smelter, Tubatse Samancor Ferrochrome Smelter, Tubatse EXstrata Lion Ferrochrome Smelter, and the like, is accumulating at a high rate because it is not being re-used but just allowed to pile up into heaps of mountains thereby taking a lot of land that could be used valuably. NB: There are numerous beneficial alternative uses of this waste that can be explored particularly with the help of the CSIR s National Cleaner Production Centre. 8. Economics 8.1. Need for consideration of the Limpopo Green Economy Plan 8.2. Drought negatively impacting agriculture 8.3. Low levels of education, high rate of unemployment and inflation 9. Environmental Governance 9.1. High unemployment rate leading to pressure on resources and illegal activities such as hunting and deforestation 9.2. Governance issue: legislation gives municipalities responsibilities where there is no capacity 9.3. Limited funding to support environmental management and capacity development 9.4. Energy challenges that are indirectly causing the lack of jobs and rolling blackouts 9.5. Lack of clarity on how to seize and scale up the opportunities found within the Green Economy Sector, which can potentially increase opportunities for the province as indicated in the Green Economy Plan 9.6. Low level of education across the province, particularly with regards to the older generation. Environmental awareness is low 9.7. The Limpopo Province has the largest number of mature game reserve areas (43) but they are inadequately managed 9.8. Inadequate staff, infrastructure and budget capacity for air quality monitoring 9

13 Issue Category Environmental Issues Identified Opportunities Environmental Governance (continued) 9.9. Need for universities and government to collaborate to close environmental information gaps and target research for improved decision-making Inadequate skills and capacity development throughout the Limpopo Province in general Political buy-in on environmental issues The follow up of the mitigation and rehabilitation responsibilities linked to development approvals is questionable Inadequate legal compliance and implementation/enforcement in general across all sectors Implementation of compliance policies Monitoring is currently being done but it needs to be strengthened Lack of control of used motor oil both in industrial and rural areas Lack of control over encroachment into Protected Areas Incorrect application of pesticides within the agricultural sector There are no Environmental Management Frameworks (EMFs) in place in all of the Districts which is leading to conflicts among resource use activities Cultural diversity needs to be recognised in settlement planning Embrace cultural knowledge and diversity Need for integrated human settlement and spatial planning Implement land use management and control systems Inadequate decision-making tools, that is maps are not up to date and do not show sensitive areas (this was in reference to the Waterberg area) There is a gap in terms of biodiversity information availability, access to this information and application of information Inadequate poverty alleviation in the Province Some biodiversity information tools exist but are not incorporated into the spatial tools for the municipalities and districts. They are not incorporated into Integrated Development Plans and do not show up in the system that the districts and municipalities are utilising Uncontrolled urban expansion and poor application of planning systems Inadequate integration and implementation of planning frameworks Environmental Governance: various role players do not have common views and attention to environmental matters Conflict and misunderstanding between traditional leaders, land use management schemes and legal requirements 10

14 9.28. Inadequate documentation of culture and heritage sites and site degradation Lack of cooperative governance between municipalities and traditional authorities Poor implementation of policies and enforcement measures in terms of land use and conservation Lack of effective environmental governance in the mining sector 10. Air Quality Air pollution from mining and burning of waste Use/synthesis of coal in a way that will not produce free radicals; solar energy Pollutants are affecting the quality of air and insufficient ambient air quality information, from mining and brick-making Continuous air monitoring equipment supplied 11

15 6. Top Priority Environmental Issues Various priority issues were identified in the workshops. The priorities are illustrated in Figure 4 below. The outcomes illustrate Waste to be a primary issue in all District Municipalities. This is thus regarded to be the most important issue according to stakeholders. Water was regarded to be the second most important issue. The third most important issue, according to stakeholders was the issue of Governance, closely followed by Biodiversity and Ecosystem Health and Climate Change. Energy was regarded to be the least important issue. Air Quality Governance Economics Waste Management Human Settlements Energy Biodiversity and Ecosystem Health THOHOYANDOU MODIMOLLE GIYANI POLOKWANE Water Resources Land and Transformation Climate Change Figure 4: Priority Issues identified during LEO 2016 Public Meetings and Workshops 12

16 7. Summary of Issues Raised Under the Ten Environmental Themes During the first round of stakeholder consultations, participants from the districts in the Limpopo Province were organised in groups and tasked with analysing the ten environmental themes in relation to the Limpopo Province. Each group was asked to provide a summary of the issues, relevant under each theme, to describe the current state of the theme, and to explain how they would like to see that theme in the future and to recommend actions that need to be taken to address the identified issues in the Limpopo Province. Table 2: Summary of Analysis of Ten Environmental Themes Environmental Themes Issues Statement Current State Desired Sate Actions 1. Climate Change Rising global temperatures resulting in changes in climate and weather patterns Increased frequency of extreme events such as floods, heat waves and drought Increase in greenhouse gases in the atmosphere as a result of human activities, such as mining, industrialisation, deforestation and agriculture Extreme temperatures and lack of rain causing drought which is negatively impacting agriculture Increased occurrence of hailstorms and low water levels in dams Reduced greenhouse gases in the atmosphere Increased use of renewable energy Less dependence on coal for energy Introduction of climate change adaptation and mitigation measures Live in a climate resilient community Enforce compliance of by-laws and regulations Need to increase awareness around addressing climate change impacts Introduce renewable energy 2. Land and Transformation The need for improved distribution of land must be recognised Human footprint is expanding Deforestation resulting in an increase in alien invasive plant species, soil erosion and decreased soil fertility Low levels of rainfall being experienced Poor management of land Poor financial and productivity monitoring regarding land restitution No proper development of mining High mining prospecting High agricultural activity Increased pressure on agricultural sector due for high demand for food Decreased agricultural productivity due to changing weather patterns Loss of livestock due to diminishing food resources Agricultural land is being transformed for other uses Rising food prices Land to be used productively and is economically viable Improved land management through proper spatial planning Implementation of Environmental Management Framework (EMF) by both public and private sectors Rehabilitation of transformed land Implementation of conservation practices Effective compliance and enforcement Proper planning of spatial development and services Mentoring Financial support by public and private sectors Improved governance and implementation of management plans Government needs to work with traditional authorities Host agricultural workshops to address issues related to funding and equip farmers with tools to help them adapt to changing environmental conditions, for example, use of boreholes 13

17 Theme Issues Statement Current State Desired Sate Actions 3. Water Resources Water is an important natural resource Population growth has resulted in an increase in water demand Available water resources have been severely diminished Failure of water treatment works to clean water has resulted in health outbreaks in communities Climate change has caused a change in rainfall patterns There is a lack of storm water management Low water levels in dams have negatively impacted the agricultural sector and residential water supply Lack of water resources due to pollution, overexploitation and extreme temperatures Lack of water resources may result in an imbalanced ecosystem and food insecurity As a result of climate change, districts are failing to meet water demands There is not enough water to supply boreholes Water treatment facilities are ineffective Residential developments and mining activity has resulted in the destruction of wetlands Residential areas are developed in flood plains Increase in water borne diseases Water quality is poor due to water pollution Droughts have negatively impacted the economy Sanitation facilities are above carrying capacity Low water levels in dams Water resources faced with alien species invasion Water treatment facilities are maintained and improved Everyone has access to clean water Effluent water is prohibited from being released into clean water A climate change adaptation strategy and green economy plan is developed and implemented Improved management of water pollution and storm water Provision and maintenance of sanitation facilities Protected wetlands Healthy state of rivers Sufficient water in dams for human supply Protection of vegetation to increase infiltration in order to increase the level of the water table Increased rain water harvesting Water awareness campaigns and capacity building Developing climate change adaptation measures Restricting activities around wetlands Implementation of water strategies and development plans Protection of riparian vegetation Afforestation Wetland conservation and restoration Increase dam capacity Removal of alien species Use of atmospheric water generators to collect water from atmosphere 4. Biodiversity and Ecosystem Health Loss of biodiversity due to new developments Mining and settlement in biodiversity sensitive areas resulting in destruction of ecosystem health Development introduces alien invasive species Priority and values differ amongst key industrial players Cutting of trees is negatively impacting animal habitats, increasing soils erosion, decreasing Biodiversity and ecosystem health is deteriorating Increased human settlements and mining activities in sensitive biodiversity areas Habitat fragmentation as a result of urban and rural development People cutting down trees on a large scale to generate income. Others cutting down trees because they cannot afford electricity. Wood is still used for traditional purposes. Biodiversity not damaged by development through better biodiversity planning and unbiased EIAs Issues related to development informed by system planning tools The number of protected areas is increased There is increased awareness around importance of having trees Communities create more nurseries for growing trees Enforce compliance of environmental management tools Effective environmental awareness More stakeholder engagement Enforce land rehabilitation plans Biodiversity plans are promoted and supported Promote community based natural resource management Encourage partnerships and enhance working solutions with Tribal Authorities Implement protected area management plans Effective budgeting and procurement Better management of alien plant species 14

18 Theme Issues Statement Current State Desired Sate Actions Biodiversity and Ecosystem Health (continued) Carbon dioxide absorption and leading to climate change Forge an understanding between people and parks Strengthen law enforcement to curb the illegal harvesting of trees Plant more trees Encourage communities to harvest alien/invasive trees as opposed to indigenous trees 5. Energy Most of energy produced is from coal Dependence on coal generated electricity depleting natural resources and increasing pollution There is a high demand for energy High number of people using firewood for energy leading to deforestation and increased air pollution 6. Human Settlements Unsustainable human settlement caused by a shortage of personnel and expertise in spatial planning Settlement on flood lines and environmentallysensitive areas Deforestation Unavailability of basic services Illegal hunting and fishing High rate of HIV infections in informal settlements 7. Waste Management Land fill sites are getting full Waste management services not efficient Illegal dumping and littering taking place Recycling not a priority for members of public High usage of electricity often results in load shedding and increased tariffs Illegal electricity connections High demand for energy as a result of development Two power stations in the Waterberg District which rely on coal Growing number of informal settlements is leading to an influx of illegal migrants, infrastructure backlog and unhygienic conditions due to lack of sanitation, water and waste removal services Flooding due to lack of drainage systems Leakage of water pipes and sewage lines due to aging infrastructure Lack of planned land for residential settlement No service provision Unlicensed waste sites Lack of budget for waste management No waste collection in rural areas Irregular or inefficient collection services Uncontrolled oil spillage at taxi ranks Use of energy saving appliances Use of renewable sources Appropriate human settlement planning frameworks are in place More clinics with sufficient equipment and supplies Release of land from Chiefs and Headman Increased job creation Basic services provided Full compliance and enforcement of bylaws Recycling becomes a part of everyone s lifestyle Volumes of waste in landfill sites are reduced Waste collection in all areas Installation of energy-saving bulbs Increased awareness Increased enforcement to prevent stealing of cables and illegal connections Develop and implement energy efficient strategy Municipalities need to implement green building concepts Municipalities need to hire competent and qualified personnel Enforcement of environmental agreements Human settlement planned in advance taking population growth and ageing of infrastructure into consideration Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Act (SPLUMA) must be implemented to facilitate conflict between traditional authorities and the municipality Increase spatial planning personnel. Government to create an environment that will attract people with expertise from the private sector. Co-operative governance with stakeholders Public awareness campaigns Create jobs for youth Provide basic services Municipalities to develop Integrated Solid Waste Management Plans and implement Compliance to be enforced Collection services to be expanded to rural areas Educational awareness around waste issues Encourage individuals to move towards recycling and waste reduction 15

19 Theme Issues Statement Current State Desired Sate Actions Waste Management (continued) Limited concern for noncompliance Inadequate waste resources and equipment Only urban areas have waste collection services 8. Economics Nothing happens without money The mainstream economy is accessible only to a few elite 9. Governance Environmental governance still not considered in many institutions Lack of prioritisation of environmental issues, such as management of solid waste in Municipalities Establishment of human capacity by the state to deal with environmental management issues as directed by the country s legislation Health and safety of community being impacted by waste Awareness campaigns not having an impact Polokwane and Sekhukhune currently only have one landfill in operation There are a few recyclers reclaiming from the landfills Animals dying due to eating waste River systems contaminated by waste. Increased prevalence of airborne diseases, odor and spontaneous combustion 70 % of population in Waterberg is unemployed The Waterberg area is experiencing crime, has an unskilled labour force and destruction of the environment is taking place Migration of foreigners Privatisation of land that has green economic assets Green economy enterprises are not enshrined in policy planning There is a high number of livestock in rural areas that has a high economic value Natural resources are declining Species are facing extinction Law enforcement is understaffed By-laws are outdated Current environmental planning tools are not linked to local municipal planning tools No budget for environmental management only restricted to waste management Unfilled vacant positions Fraud and corruption Lack of implementation of legislation High number of unsettled cases Job opportunities created through recycling initiatives Fully capacitated waste management units in Municipalities Adequate inclusion of environmental issues in Integrated Development Plans (IDPs) An environment that is not harmful to people and animals Increased capacity in Municipalities Increased tourism for financial development Biodiversity is maintained to attract tourism The youth is educated, trained and developed SMME s are developed in conjunction with the tourism and mining industry Markets areformalised to enrich areas and uplift rural economics and biodiversity access benefits Environmental courts are established Awareness creation is followed by enforcement More environmental personnel recruited to manage environmental issues Sufficient budget Vacant posts filled No corruption Proper implementation of laws Legal cases promptly attended to Increased funding for waste management Effort to minimize waste through reducing, reusing and recycling Provide more waste facilities Increase recycling depots Have waste facilities for hazardous waste Marketing strategy for tourism in Waterberg area is needed Government support on strengthening tourism is needed Create jobs in the private sector Skills training on hospitality, ecotourism and mining Conservation of biodiversity More cooperative governance with key stakeholders Strengthen compliance and enforcement of environmental laws in local municipalities Need to build partnerships with private sector, civil society, NGOs and municipalities Further training of EMI Need for proper budgeting Development of a sound institutional structure. Cooperative governance Implementing laws in place Development of good monitoring and evaluation strategy. 16

20 Theme Issues Statement Current State Desired Sate Actions 10. Air Quality Activities, such as mining, vehicle emissions and agricultural activities, are threatening the quality of air due to emissions Waterberg District Municipality identified air quality priority areas in 2012 for which a Management Plan being developed Local municipalities do not have the air quality management personnel and tools Three air quality stations in Thabazimbi, Lephalale and Magalakwena are showing that ambient air quality is deteriorating Pollutants such as Carbon Dioxide, Nitrogen and Sulphur Dioxide are of great concern Enough tools and personnel to monitor air quality Emission reduction from listed activities Good ambient air quality that complies with national air quality standards Local municipalities must appoint EMI officers Awareness campaigns for air quality issues Residents/communities encouraged to use public transport Encourage more walking and cycling Increase use of renewable energy Strengthen compliance and enforcement of legislation Ambient air quality information must be made available to communities 17

21 8. Key Recommendations from Stakeholders The second round of stakeholder workshops was conducted in each of the districts in Limpopo between 15 and 19 February The aim of the workshops was to discuss the draft report and provide feedback on the findings. Stakeholders were shown how the issues identified during the first round of meetings were incorporated into the report and were given a chance to raise and discuss current issues. During this meeting, attendees were encouraged to put forward key recommendations to address the issues raised during the first round of stakeholder meetings. These key recommendations are highlighted in the table below. Table 3: Summary of key recommendations from stakeholders Meeting Location Key Recommendations from Stakeholders 1. Capricorn District Municipality Polokwane: LDET Offices 15 February Mopani District Municipality Giyani: Multipurpose Centre 16 February 2016 Improve access to information: o The data used to develop the Limpopo Environmental Outlook Report needs to be easily accessible in order to assist authorities with environmental management and planning. Data from similar reports has previously not been easy to access. Strengthen compliance: o Compliance measures need to be strengthened, particularly at a local level; o All municipalities need to have full-time compliance officers with a structured plan governing how they work; o To help alleviate the workload, relevant departments should handle their own compliance matters as opposed to having only one compliance unit managing all compliance issues; o Compliance authorities must have a good understanding of the environment they are working in; and o Compliance units at a provincial level also need to be relevant at the local level. Clarify and strengthen relationships with traditional authorities. Improve land use planning: o There is a need for better demarcation of land for different uses. Poor planning has resulted in conflict around different land uses with some land not being used for its intended purpose. Enhance working relationship between traditional authorities and local government: o There are strained relations between local government and traditional authorities which is causing problems. There is a need to determine a way for municipalities to work together with the traditional authorities; and o Information sharing between local government and traditional authorities needs to improve to ensure there is a clear understanding on processes. Increase awareness: o The final LEO Report needs to be shared effectively with decision makers in relevant departments around the Province; and o Existing decision making forums must be used to create awareness on the LEO Report. Build additional capacity: o Individuals tasked with managing environmental issues need to be trained accordingly; and o Traditional authorities need to be equipped with skills that will assist them with making decisions related to land use, allocation and management. Keep the responsibility of managing and delivering services at a local level. Use the final LEO Report in conjunction with other planning frameworks and processes. 18

22 Meeting Location Key Recommendations from Stakeholders 3. Sekhukhune District Municipality Groblersdal: Community Hall 17 February Vhembe District Municipality Thohoyandou: Botanical Gardens 18 February 2016 Improve management of air pollution: o Air pollution is a critical issue that needs to be addressed. It is particularly problematic in areas close to the mines like Tubatse. Additional monitoring of air quality and capacity is required. Improve waste facilities, services and management: o Landfill sites need to be better maintained and equipped; o Recycling initiatives must to be encouraged to help alleviate the waste problem; and o Provide waste collection services in rural areas. Identify more cost effective and efficient ways of managing soil erosion. Encourage individuals and government departments to seek more sustainable ways of doing things in order to adapt to climate change. Improve mining practices and compliance: o Relevant authorities need to ensure mines comply with their environmental management and social responsibility plans in order to mitigate the long term negative impacts of the mines. o The long term social, environmental and economic consequences of the affected community must be carefully considered before a mine is approved. Increase awareness: o Have campaigns about environmental issues on television and radio in order to reach illiterate members of the community. o Get community leaders involved in awareness campaigns. Offer some compensation to volunteer waste pickers to give them incentive to work. Create more employment for members of the community to help alleviate pressure on the environment. Increase funding allocated to addressing environmental issues. Encourage people to start thinking differently about environmental issues. Indigenous Knowledge Systems need to be documented and implemented in order to address environmental issues. 19

23 9. The Next Steps Following two rounds of stakeholder workshops and meetings, this document was developed as a mechanism for further discussion in the process to identify key issues and themes that will form the basis for the Limpopo Environment Outlook Report. Feedback on the draft document will be collated, analysed and further discussed during subsequent stakeholder engagement for the project. The selection of subsequent environmental issues and themes, for the Limpopo Environment Outlook Report, is in process and depends on information being made available and the support that can be provided by stakeholders to continue monitoring environmental trends in the Limpopo Province. The selection of the issues and themes will therefore be concluded through a participatory process involving discussions with people. This process is outlined in a Stakeholder Engagement Plan. Ultimately the higher priority issues need more attention and focus can be placed on the determination of key environmental indicators. This document contains appendixes that will aid in further identification of environmental issues and themes for the Limpopo Province, as well as identification of any other relevant information, which could possibly aid to further the project. 20

24 APPENDIX1: List of Meetings and Workshops # Meeting/Workshop Purpose 1. Protected Areas Unit, LEDET, Mr Avhurengio Malange 2. Biodiversity Research Unit, LEDET, Dr Antoinette Letsoala Discuss the protected areas in Limpopo Discuss the previous SoER projects, the GAP tool and what is currently needed for the EO project 3. EMF Unit, LEDET, Dr Karen Steenkamp Discuss the EMFs in the province and source the EMF information 4. Environmental Management Unit, LEDET, Mr Thomas Maluleke Discuss the role of the EO for the Limpopo Province and gain an understanding of current issues 5. Nature Reserves Unit, LEDET, Ms V Thabethe Discuss the state owned nature reserves, access to existing information on these reserves and issues 6. Biodiversity Unit, LEDET, Mr Johan Kruger Discuss biodiversity information for Limpopo and key issues faced in biodiversity management 7. EIA Unit, LEDET, Ms Tinyiko Malungani Discuss the role of EIAs in Limpopo, problems faced and what needs attention re. the EO project 8. CSIR, Mr Johan Maritz Discuss the GAP tool, its development and purpose, as well as the current relevance and state of information 9. Biodiversity Research, LEDET, Dr A Letsoala Discuss data and research opportunity with researches and academics from universities and training institutions 10. Biomonitoring, LEDET, Mr S Rogers Discuss biomonitoring issues and information for Limpopo 11. Biomonitoring, LEDET, Mr V Egan Discuss biomonitoring issues and information for Limpopo 12. Capricorn District Environmental Forum Present LEO and gather project data and information 13. Waste Management, LEDET, Mr T Masimela Discuss waste management issues and information for Limpopo 14. Economic Development, LEDET, Dr J Mostert Discuss economic issues, indicators and monitoring for Limpopo 15. CoGHSTA IDP Meeting, Loskop Dam Present LEO and gather project data and information 16. Environmental Awareness, LEDET, Mr Manoko Discuss the Green Municipality Competition in Limpopo 17. Environmental Issues, University of Limpopo, Mrs Letsoala 18. Climate Change and Food Security, University of Limpopo, Mr Anyegeni Discuss general issues in Limpopo Discuss climate change and food security issues in Limpopo 19. Air Quality, LEDET, Mrs P Thivhafuni Discuss air quality issues and information for Limpopo 20. Mopani and Vhembe District Workshop, Giyani Discuss issues and opportunities for the districts 21. Capricorn and Sekhukhune District Workshop, Polokwane Discuss issues and opportunities for the districts 22. Waterberg District Workshop, Modimolle Discuss issues and opportunities for the district. 23. Capricorn District Workshop, Polokwane Discuss first draft of LEO Report and key recommendations. 24. Sekhukhune District Workshop, Groblersdal Discuss first draft of LEO Report and key recommendations. 25. Mopani District Workshop, Giyani Discuss first draft of LEO Report and key recommendations. 25. Vhembe District Workshop, Thohoyandou Discuss first draft of LEO Report and key recommendations. 21

25 APPENDIX 2: Stakeholder Map 22

26 APPENDIX3: List of Attendees - Workshops and Steering Committee Meetings LEDET Core Project Management Team Maluleke MT; Malungani T and Steenkamp K. Steering Committee Members Chavalala WN; Dali MR; Gafane M; Kolani L; Maako P; Mabada HD; Malala RE; Mampye A; Maselela T; Maboshego LM; Mthombeni RV; Mudau NR; Mudau MD; Munyai NE; Manoko MA; Mokgenie SH; Mokgobu TS; Mootanane RK; Nchabeleng KG; Netshikovhela E; Peeha T; Tjebane MA; Ramulondi H; Ramusi J; van Rooyen T and Zikalala KN. Additional Stakeholders Baloyi F; Baloyi MD; Baloyi RC; Baloyi P; Baloyi O; Chula MJ; de Klerk A; Dima MB; Dimba I; Egan V; Faber M; Hlongwane T; Hlungwani YI; Joubert K; Kgaabi L; Klassen W; Koemerie MS; Koopedi OR; Kruger J; le Roux A; Lekganyane MA; Lekgothoen M; Lekoana MA; Leope MP; Leshabane P; Lesufi MA; Letsoalo A; Mabada HD; Mabila F; Mabunye NA; Machethe LP; Madadzhe N; Maja F; Makananise TB; Makgokoa P; Makhomisani N; Makhubele NJ; Makhubele S; Makhukho SS; Makunamisha N; Malala RE; Malange A; Maleta T;; Maluleke V; Maluleke MD; Malungani T; Mamida S; Manyala T; Manyatsha K; Marakalala T; Mareda T; Maritz J; Mashaba XG; Mashala L; Masikhwa V; Mathabala JM; Mathebula AM; Mathobo T; Mathomu CN; Maud K; Mbadaliga TH; Mdi N; Mdugozi B; Moeng E; Mogalakwana M; Mogoane E; Mokghalane PB; Mokgotho C; Mokobi J; Mokoena TL; Molepo ME; Moloto KK; Mongwe V; Morema T; Moshoeu ML; Mostert J; Mothapo SW; Mothato W; Mphahlele T; Mphatheleni M; Munyangane S; Musetsho N; Mushiana M; Ndivho T; Ndou N; Ndou FH; Ndwamato CT; Nefale T; Neluvhola SG; Netshidzixhe T; Nevhutanda AS; Nevhuthalu NS; Ngobeni M; Ngobeni R; Nkanyana M; Nkwinika C; Nthanyi S; Nthlane LA; Phahlane MN; Pheeha M; Ramakonya SJ; Ramaphosa NT; Rambuda VS; Rampfumedzi M; Ramukosi M; Ramutla NA; Rangwoto M; Ranku M; Raphunga TV; Ratovhowani C; Ratshikhopha KP; Rodgers S; Rogers M; Sadiki SS; Sehlapelo MA; Serope LC; Sigoba M; Singo N; Sinyegwe TE; Snyman J; Somanje MJ; Tema T; Thabethe V; Thilivha T; Thivhafuni P; Tiba S; Tlouane K; Tovhakale L; Tshitwamulomoni T; Tshuketana MM; Tshuketena TL and van Wetten A. 23