Environment
Global Guide 2024 : South Africa
Band 2
Email address
[email protected]Contact number
+27 21 405 5100About
Provided by Werksmans Attorneys
The Werksmans Environmental Law practice offers specialised advice in the constantly-evolving South African legislative landscape which has also seen a growing emphasis on corporate governance requirements in the shape of triple bottom line reporting.
Our Environmental Law practice fully understands the extent to which environmental considerations affect the operations of businesses across the economy, from energy and mining to petrochemicals, agriculture, manufacturing, infrastructure and property development, tourism and transportation.
This is reflected in the comprehensive range of environmental legal issues advised on including land claims, mining rights, environmental compliance, regulation, waste and hazardous substance emissions and legal controls.
Our team of highly-skilled specialist lawyers includes a qualified and experienced town and urban planner and we are ideally placed to also advise on all aspects relating to land use planning. Versatility is the hallmark of the team which is able to address advisory, regulatory, compliance, contractual and transactional issues, as well as resolve and avoid potential disputes or litigate when disputes arise.
Chambers Review
Werksmans Attorneys maintains a well-established environmental group best known for the strength and breadth of its appellate practice. The team frequently represents clients on both sides in appeals against environmental authorisations, including approvals for developments and operations in the mining sector. Knowledgeable on water rights law, heritage sites, renewable energy developments and infrastructure projects, the firm is also active in assisting with environmental due diligence and regulations in relation to M&A deals.
Work Highlights
- Werksmans Attorneys successfully defended Engie in an appeal brought against the environmental authorisation of its wind farm.
Notable Practitioners
Justin Truter represents clients in various environmental disputes, such as those relating to permits and authorisations, water use rights and environmental due diligence. He operates out of the firm's Stellenbosch office in his position as the environmental group practice leader.
"Justin Truter works hard to protect his clients' interests."