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Questions and Answers
What is the maximum time frame allowed for the applicant to submit an environmental impact assessment report in South Africa?
Which entity is responsible for approving the environmental impact assessment after the applicant submits it?
How many days must the competent authority review the submitted environmental impact assessment before making a decision?
What role do shareholders play in the environmental impact assessment process?
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What is the time frame for public participation during the environmental impact assessment process?
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Study Notes
Environmental Impact Assessment Time Frames in South Africa
- Applicant: Responsible for submitting a complete environmental impact assessment (EIA) report to the competent authority.
- Competent Authority: Reviews the report for completeness and technical soundness within 30 days. If deemed adequate, the authority has 120 days to assess the EIA and make a decision.
- Proponent: Responsible for preparing and submitting the EIA report and responding to public comments and inquiries.
- Shareholders: All stakeholders within the community who may be affected by the proposed development have the right to participate in the EIA process, as well as the public, local municipalities, and environmental organizations.
Public Participation Time Frames
- The competent authority must provide the public and all stakeholders with a reasonable opportunity to comment on the EIA report. Public participation involves public meetings, site visits, and written submissions.
Decision Time Frames
- The competent authority must issue a decision within 120 days of receiving a complete EIA report. The decision may be either to approve or reject the proposed development.
Appeal Time Frames
- If a proponent is not happy with the decision, they can appeal it. The proponent has 30 days after receiving the decision to lodge an appeal with the Minister of Environmental Affairs.
Environmental Management Programme (EMP)
- Following the approval of an EIA, an environmental management programme must be developed and implemented by the proponent. This program outlines the specific environmental management measures to mitigate the potential negative impacts of the development.
Monitoring and Enforcement
- The Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA) is responsible for monitoring compliance with the approved EMP and the environmental legislation in general. The DEA has the authority to enforce compliance through inspections, audits, and legal action.
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Description
This quiz covers the time frames and processes for Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) in South Africa. Explore the roles of applicants, competent authorities, proponents, and public participation in the EIA process. Test your knowledge on regulatory timelines and stakeholder involvement.
