The Environmental Assessment Practitioners Association of South Africa (EAPASA), which is the single and sole Registration Authority for the registration and regulation of Environmental Assessment Practitioners (EAPs) in South Africa, wishes to address recent media reports highlighting the failure of certain government officials and professionals to adhere to established Codes of Practice (CoP). These transgressions not only undermine the integrity of our profession but also pose significant risks to public investment in critical infrastructure projects, such as roads, schools, and other essential facilities.
As a Statutory Professional Body and a Registration Authority dedicated to upholding the highest standards of environmental assessment, we take these issues very seriously. Our Code of Conduct/Practice is designed to ensure that all Registered EAPs conduct their work with the utmost professionalism, integrity, and competence. Any deviation from these standards is unacceptable and will be met with swift and decisive action.
We want to assure the public and all stakeholders that EAPASA remains vigilant in monitoring and regulating the activities of our registered practitioners. We are committed to taking all necessary measures against those found to be in violation of our Code of Conduct/Practice. This includes, but is not limited to, disciplinary actions such as suspension or revocation of registration and, where appropriate, referral to legal authorities.
Furthermore, we call upon the public to play an active role in maintaining the integrity of our profession. If you are aware of any individual or entity undertaking environmental assessments without proper registration, or if you encounter substandard work or unethical behaviour from registered practitioners, we urge you to report these concerns to EAPASA immediately. Your vigilance is crucial in helping us uphold the standards that protect our environment and ensure sustainable development and the successful delivery of infrastructure projects.
Malpractice complaints can be made via our official email address Complaints@eapasa.org or Registrar@eapasa.org or through our dedicated telephone line, 012 880 2154. All official complaints will be treated with the utmost confidentiality and will be thoroughly investigated.
EAPASA remains dedicated to maintaining the highest standards in environmental assessment and ensuring that the profession continues to contribute positively to the sustainable development of South Africa.
For media inquiries, please contact EAPASA Chairperson chairperson@eapasa.org or the PR Chairperson at vice-chair@eapasa.org or call 012 880 2154.
ISSUED BY THE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT PRACTITIONERS ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH AFRICA (EAPASA)
