Learning from the implementation of environmental public policy instruments after the first ten years of democracy in South Africa

Abstract

Unprecedented policy development during the past decade in South Africa characterised new systems of governance. This paper examines examples of both national and local environmental policy and concludes that the shift from the centralised, technocratic approach of the apartheid era is not yet complete. Whilst environmental policy and legislation embody sound democratic principles, implementation, compliance and enforcement are lagging. The lack of a strategic national framework for sustainable development confuses the responsibilities of national, provincial and local government. Established environmental assessment tools are compromised by conflicts over the integration of social, economic and environmental issues.

Keywords:

• environmental policy
• environmental management
• environmental governance
• environmental assessment tools
• democracy
• South Africa