Department Of Environmental Affairs Oceans And Coasts

Department Of Environmental Affairs Oceans And Coasts

An integral part of the environment is undoubtedly the Oceans and Coasts. The marine and coastal environment are national assets that provide and sustain a wide range of economic, social and ecological services that are a foundation for the livelihoods of millions of South Africans. They not only underpin national and international transport, mining, coastal tourism and fisheries industries but also are vital components of the climate system as a carbon sink and global temperature controller.



Investigations have found that South Africa’s oceans economy has potential to contribute more than R20 billion to the gross domestic product (GDP) by 2019 and at least 1 million jobs by 2033. As the DEA, our role in this regard is particularly focused on marine protection services and ocean governance, which entails the protection of the ocean environment from all illegal activities and promotion of its multiple socio-economic benefits.

Our focus is on the management and conservation of our oceans and coastal environment. The purpose is to bring about harmony and integration of the various role players in the ocean space, but also safeguard against any possible compromise of the ocean environment through application of different legislation relevant to oceans and coastal management.



We also continue to strengthen research programmes for integrated oceans and coastal management. Through the South African National Antarctic Programme (SANAP), the department has maintained South Africa’s research presence in Antarctica and the Prince Edward Islands. The scientific data that is collected during voyages is critical to the understanding of amongst other things, the impacts of climate change and weather information associated with extreme events.

 

Purpose and functions

Purpose

Oceans & Coasts (OC) deals with the promotion, management and strategic leadership on oceans and coastal conservation in South Africa.

Functions

The key focus areas in driving oceans and coastal environment conservation are:
  • The establishments of management frameworks and mechanisms for the ocean and coastal environment.
  • The strengthening of national science programmes for integrated oceans and coastal management.
  • The Development of and contribution to effective knowledge and information management for the sector.
  • The participation and support to international agreements and bodies supportive of SA environmental and sustainable development priorities.