The regulatory regime for bio–fuels in South Africa

Abstract

In this study bio–fuels are identified as a possible solution to the effects of climate change and a more secure supply of energy. It is determined if there exist any policies that could provide for the regulation of a bio–fuels industry in a sustainable manner. The management tools and regulatory measures used in the energy related policies to pursue the sustainable development of a secure energy sector are identified. Thereafter a discussion regarding the concept of strategic environmental assessment (SEA) follows to determine whether South African energy policies have been strategically developed to provide for a sustainable energy future. The first part of this study focuses on the aspects regarding environmental management tools such as environmental impact assessment studies, life cycle assessments and SEAs and how these concepts can be integrated with each other as well as with the concept of sustainable development in order to promote a more sustainable energy sector. The study indicates how energy policies should be used to provide for an efficient framework for renewable energy. The second part of the study deals with the environmental and energy legislative frameworks of South Africa which relate to bio–fuels. Brazil's bio–fuels regulatory framework is discussed to determine what South Africa can learn from Brazil with regard to renewable energy and the sustainable development and regulation thereof.