The National Environmental Management Act (NEMA) recognises the
establishment of NEAF as the National Environmental Advisory Forum
that is established to advise the Minister on a ny matter concerning
environmental management and governance, specifically the setting
and achievement of objectives and priorities for environmental
governance, and appropriate methods of monitoring compliance with
the principles set out in section 2 of the Act. The Forum will
also inform the Minister of the views of the stakeholders regarding
the application of the principles set out in section 2 of the Act.
The Forum may, on its own initiative
and after consultation with the Director-General, draw the
Minister’s attention to any matter concerning environmental
management requiring attention, and the Minister may refer
matters for consideration by the Forum.
Role of NEAF is to:
Inform the Minister of Environmental Affairs and
Tourism (the Minister) of the views of stakeholders,
and/or experts, regarding the application of the principles
set out in section 2 of the Act;
Advise the Minister on any matter concerning environmental
management and governance, specifically the setting and achievement
of objectives and priorities for environmental governance
as well as appropriate methods of monitoring compliance with
the principles set out in section 2 of the Act;
On its own initiative, and after consultation with the
Director-General, draw the Minister’s attention to
any matter concerning environmental management requiring
attention; and,
Consider any matter that the Minister may refer to the
Forum.
Provides an important vehicle for the engagement of the
Minister with stakeholders on environmental matters.
Provide possible solutions to environmental governance
and management issues that may arise through their special
expertise and knowledge.
Advise the Minister on the development of environmental
policies and legislation, international engagement issues
and the application of the principles of Section 2 of NEMA.
Influence and contribute to national positions with regard
to international environmental agreements. These positions
may form the basis of certain international negotiations.
The Forum consists of fifteen
members appointed by the Minister and representing stakeholders
from organised labour, organised business, non-governmental
organisations and community-based organisations, and persons
that have experience, expertise or skills necessary to enable
the Forum to carry out its functions. Consideration was also
given to the appointment of women and youth, and ensuring representation
of vulnerable and disadvantaged persons. Attached, as annexure
1 is the approved list of NEAF members .
