The Gauteng Department of Environment has been recognised as South Africa’s leading competent authority for administering and managing Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) projects for the 2025/26 period.
The prestigious award was presented on 22 October 2026 during the Environmental Assessment Practitioners Association of South Africa (EAPASA) Regional Conference held at Mentors Country Estate in Jeffreys Bay, Eastern Cape.
According to the department, the award recognises the important role played by competent authorities in processing Environmental Impact Assessment applications and Environmental Authorisations, which are essential for effective environmental governance and sustainable development in South Africa.
EAPASA, the country’s only registration body for Environmental Assessment Practitioners, presents the annual award to acknowledge excellence in the administration of environmental regulatory processes and the promotion of sustainable development.
The department said Gauteng’s rapid urbanisation, infrastructure expansion, industrial growth, housing developments and commercial investment require efficient, transparent and responsive environmental impact assessment processes that balance economic growth with environmental protection.
It added that the recognition reflects the dedication and professionalism of the department’s Environmental Impact Assessment officials, who ensure development projects are assessed thoroughly and fairly while complying with environmental legislation and sustainability principles.
The department said the award reinforces Gauteng’s commitment to responsible environmental governance and to building a greener, more sustainable and resilient province while ensuring sustainable development remains central to the province’s growth agenda.
