The Western Cape’s Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning has earned second place nationally in the 2025 Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Performance Awards.
The Environmental Assessment Practitioners Association of South Africa (EAPASA) recently hosted the awards.
The awards aim to recognise excellence in managing environmental impact assessments across the country.
The government established the EIA process as a regulatory framework under the National Environmental Management Act.
The process assesses how development projects may potentially affect the environment, ensuring that it remains unharmed.
RECOGNITION FOR EXCELLENCE IN THE NATIONAL EIA SYSTEM
Accepting the award, Director Zaahir Toefy said the recognition celebrates the collective dedication of teams working toward a sustainable future.
“This is a remarkable recognition of shared commitment to sustainable development,” he said.
Toefy added that the achievement reflects the hard work of environmental officers who ensure that every application, site visit, and decision aligns with responsible growth.
“Our success is built on their expertise and dedication,” he further said.
NATIONAL RECOGNITION UNDER THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT PLAN
Moreover, the provincial Minister, Anton Bredell, said the recognition reinforces the department’s leading role in EIA management across South Africa.
“Without our EIA team, we cannot support growth in our economy while protecting the environment,” Bredell said.
He emphasised that sound EIA processes are essential for sustainable economic growth and effective governance.
ENIVORNMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT: PARTNERSHIPS THAT DRIVE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
Additionally, the Head of Department, Gerhard Gerber, labelled the award a symbol of partnership between government, practitioners, and communities.
“When we collaborate and commit to excellence, we build development that supports both economic growth and environmental protection,” he said.
LOOKING AHEAD
The department said it remains dedicated to strengthening its Environmental Impact Assessment system, ensuring decisions are fair, transparent, and effective.
Its ongoing focus on collaboration and sustainability will help the province maintain its position as a national leader in environmental management.
