A critical and comparative analysis of the under regulation of underground storage tanks in South Africa and the attendant consequences for environmental resources
Master Thesis
2014
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University of Cape Town
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Abstract
In South Africa, as with the rest of the world, pollution presents a major threat to the environment and thus to the intimately linked social and economic facets of society. The very notion of sustainability is premised on the inextricability of socio-economic demands and the capacity of the environment to support and sustain such demands. It is trite that without a healthy environment there is no future but if there is a future, then access to ecosystem services in it will become an increasingly critical factor for economic resilience and success. Prevention of pollution is thus of critical importance. The focus of this thesis is on one form of pollution in particular, namely, pollution resulting from petrochemicals leaking from underground storage tanks (“USTs”) situated at fuel retailer outlets and truck stops. These hazardous substances can contaminate nearby groundwater and soil causing a multitude of problems including the contamination and degradation of water and soil in the surrounding areas. Although these tanks constitute potentially devastating environmental hazards, the problem is easily addressed through proper regulation and governance and the adoption of practical guidelines informed by countries with the relevant knowledge and expertise. The South African government has the power to mitigate against and prevent this kind of harm through coordinated policies, integrated management and sound financial planning. In the concluding chapter on this study, recommendations for the drafting and implementation of such measures will be provided.
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Includes bibliographical references.
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Johnston, M. 2014. A critical and comparative analysis of the under regulation of underground storage tanks in South Africa and the attendant consequences for environmental resources. University of Cape Town.