Government Proposal Threatens Environmental Safeguards in Kruger National Park
A recent proposal by the South African government to exclude certain developments in the Kruger National Park from statutory environmental impact assessments has raised concerns among environmental specialists. Under this proposal, South African National Parks (SANParks) could implement developments without proper checks and balances, limiting public participation in the park’s management.
Despite minimal public response to the proposal, experts like Cape Town lawyer Richard Summers have highlighted the potential negative consequences of this move. They argue that it goes against principles of administrative justice and public participation enshrined in the South African Constitution.
Excluding SANParks from environmental authorisation requirements could undermine crucial safeguards for the park’s biodiversity. Kate Handley of the Biodiversity Law Centre described the proposal as concerning, emphasizing the importance of thorough impact assessments in protected areas like the Kruger. Without proper assessments, there is a risk of overlooking significant biodiversity features and impacts.
It is essential to protect the biodiversity of the Kruger National Park and uphold environmental safeguards to ensure its long-term preservation and sustainability.