The Swaziland Environment Authority:
SEA is a parastatal that derives its mandate from the Environmental Management Act of 2002. It is entrusted with the coordination of all environmental issues in Swaziland, as well as the enforcement of the Act and its regulations.
Sustainable Development: SEA’s activities are primarily aimed at ensuring that Swaziland’s development is sustainable. Natural resources are depended upon for economic development and the basic livelihood of communities. They also support the cultural and spiritual activities that identify Swazis but are being degraded because of over-exploitation, pollution, land contamination and population growth. SEA must ensure that these factors are adequately mitigated in the course of development and to discharge this mandate effectively, it needs the cooperation of all, including the corporate world.
Key Environmental Issues Biodiversity: Swaziland’s rich biological diversity is under threat due to anthropogenic activities and natural events. SEA has compiled polices and draft legislation on biodiversity, biosafety and biotechnology and is also working with communities to enhance and protect biodiversity. Public participation is vital.
Waste Management: Solid waste is a major problem that is worsening daily. With the growing quantity and toxicity of waste, SEA has promulgated the Waste Regulations 2000, which address all aspects, from collection and transportation to disposal. A National Solid Waste Management Strategy has been formulated which outlines the different approaches to waste management, taking into account land tenure and administrative structures, as well as the roles and responsibilities of public, private and traditional bodies.
Pollution has a direct effect on human health as well as reducing available useable resources. Traditionally it was thought to be caused by larges industries but today it is also caused by small operations. Ordinary citizens further contribute to various forms of pollution through irresponsible activities. SEA has put in place the Water Pollution Control and Air Control Regulations.
Land Degradation: Because of overdependency on natural resources, pressure has been placed on the land, causing deforestation and soil erosion. There is indiscriminate mining of sand and gravel and poor communities are cutting and selling wood resources for fuel. In collaboration with the Forestry Department and the Department of Geological Survey, SEA is taking appropriate measures.
Climate Change: The cumulative effects of land degradation and air pollution through burning fossil-fuels affects the climate and we are experiencing unusual weather patterns. This is a global issue that in Swaziland emerges as a threat to food security.
Public Awareness: There is a misconception that natural resources are infinite and can be utilised by anyone, anyhow. Awareness is therefore a major challenge for SEA. Resources must be utilised with care and only if there is no substitute. The public sector must appreciate the importance of this so that Government may take the right decisions to promote sustainable development through policies, legislation and programs. The public must play its role by conserving and protecting the environment. To achieve this, there is a need for a public awareness program and SEA has developed and Environmental Education Strategy for Swaziland.