Resisting (nuclear) power? Environmental regulation in South Africa

Abstract

This article considers the resistance potential of Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) and their effects upon existing power relationships. It focuses upon the blocking of Eskom's proposed new test nuclear reactor by the environmental NGO Earthlife Africa, at Koeberg, South Africa, the site of Africa's only existing nuclear power plant. This was achieved through their engagement with, and contestation of, the South African EIA process. It occurred within a context of a globally uncertain future for the nuclear industry, and broader questions over the possible role of nuclear power in sustainable development. Whilst initially appearing as an example of environmental resistance against a big development project, by approaching the case through the lens of Michel Foucault's concept of governmentality the article suggests that Earthlife Africa's challenge reinforced existing power relationships and legitimised an essentially pro-development EIA process. This is particularly evident when considering the relationship between EIAs and established scientific authorities, and the problematic role of public participation. However, by regarding the EIA as an example of ‘bearing witness’ some sense of its resistance potential can be reclaimed. The article concludes by suggesting that a broader debate on nuclear power in South Africa is desirable, and that environmental NGOs should seriously consider the degree to which they accept and participate in the EIA process.

Notes

1. www.earthlife.org.za

2. www.pbmr.co.za

3. Ibid.

4. http://www.earthlife-ct.org.za/ct/article.php?story=20040603224901422 accessed 5 September2005.

5. Most World Bank development projects are now required to have EIAs conducted on them, andenvironmental science graduate degrees are widespread (Luke, 1999a).

6. See the qualifications of, and limits to, the report's scope (Poltech, 2002: ii, vii-viii, x-xi, 2, 31–32, 63–65, 67–69, 191, and 350). Interestingly, the report does cover some broader issues, such as HIV/ Aids and the development's impact upon tourism.

7. http://www.earthlife-ct.org.za/ct/article.php?story=20050620002516883 accessed 31 August2005.

8. www.pbmr.co.za

9. http://www.greenpeace.org/international/about/our-mission

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Carl Death

Carl Death, Department of International Politics, University of Wales, Aberystwyth, UK; [email protected]