Groups challenge offshore drilling approval in court

The Green Connection and Natural Justice have approached the high court to challenge
the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy’s decision to grant Total Energies
approval for offshore oil and gas drilling. Minister Gwede Mantashe gave Total the
environmental authorization after rejecting appeals from the lobby groups.

“We remain committed to good governance, ensuring development decisions
sustainably manage our oceans,” said Liziwe McDaid, Green Connection’s Strategic
Lead. “We don’t believe granting authorization and dismissing appeals was in the public
interest for current and future generations. This legal action challenges decisions with
far-reaching coastal community and ocean impacts.”

The organizations believe the government failed to consider the Integrated Coastal
Management Act requirements and ignored drilling impacts extending to Namibia and
international waters.

“Our legal challenge is grounded in good governance and environmental protection
principles,” said Melisa Groenink of Natural Justice. “The decision-making process must
adhere to laws like NEMA and ICMA that prioritize coastal resource conservation while
promoting meaningful public participation.”

As climate change concerns grow globally, the groups argue sustainable ocean
management is crucial. Their court bid aims to ensure a thorough assessment of the
offshore project’s environmental risks and public interests.