LEGAL MANDATE AND CORE BUSINESS

The legal mandate and core business of the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) are to manage, protect and conserve South Africa’s environment and natural resources. The mandate is informed by section 24 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 which affords everyone the right to (a) an environment that is not harmful to their health or well-being; and (b) to have the environment protected for the benefit of present and future generations, through reasonable legislative and other measures.

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT LEGISLATIVE/REGULATORY FRAMEWORK

To give effect to this constitutional environmental right and the need for sound environmental management and sustainable development, the DFFE has over a period of time developed a comprehensive environmental management legislative/regulatory framework. This regulatory framework comprises acts of parliament (environmental laws), regulations, policies, norms and standards, and other regulatory tools that are aimed at promoting sound environmental management practices in order to protect and conserve the environment for the benefit of current and future generations.

CRITICAL ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT INTERVENTIONS

Critical environmental management interventions by the DFFE include raising awareness on key environment issues and promoting a culture of environmental activism among ordinary citizens, building capacity within the sector, and establishing and strengthening national, regional and global partnerships to address common environmental challenges.

VISION

A prosperous, equitable and resilient society living in harmony with our natural resources.

MISSION

Providing leadership in environmental management, conservation and protection towards a sustainable development and a climate resilient South Africa, for the benefit of all South Africans and the global community.

VALUES

Passion: driven by a deep commitment to environmental stewardship. Proactive and innovative: embracing forward - thinking and solution - driven approaches. People-centric: prioritising services to communities, stakeholders, and internal relations with respect and empathy. Integrity: upholding transparency, honesty and accountability in all actions. Performance-driven: focused on delivering impactful, efficient, and high - quality services. Inclusivity: empowering all South African citizens through public participation and ensuring transformation.