To develop and implement processes and systems for the efficient and effective administration of the department's authorisation of waste management activities and ensure reduced releases of hazardous waste streams into the environment and that contaminated land is remediated.

To lead the development of national policies, strategies, legislation, norms and standards and build capacity in government, industry and civil society to respond to the challenges of pollution resulting from poor general waste management while also contributing towards the provision of basic waste services to all citizens of South Africa.

To lead the development of national policies, strategies, legislation, norms and standards and monitor and evaluate the impact of policy on chemicals and waste management.

To manage, facilitate, plan and coordinate department’s and South Africa’s engagement and co-operation agreements in multi-lateral chemicals and waste agreements and related international cooperationand national programmes.