Paper mill fined for contravening air quality act
Scottburgh Regional Court sentenced Sappi to a fine of R8-million.
The Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) in KwaZulu-Natal has obtained a confiscation order for R8-million in a criminal case against Sappi Saiccor (Pty) Ltd.
As per information received from the National Prosecuting Authority, Sappi pleaded guilty to contravention of the National Environmental Management Air Quality Act.
“Sappi is in possession of an Atmospheric Emission Licence which stipulates the daily average of Sulphur Dioxide and Sulphur Dioxide bubbles emissions that can be released into the atmosphere,” said Natasha Ramkisson-Kara, NPA regional spokesperson.
“During the period of July 2012 to December 2014 in and near the Umkomaas area, Sappi exceeded these amounts by expelling more emissions than they were permitted to.”
Natasha Ramkisson-Kara added that in the plea, the company, conceded to the excessive emissions, stating that this was due to technical and/or operational challenges. They mentioned that they attended to such problems when the problems arose, in an attempt to remedy the situation and operate within the parameters of their licence.”
Scottburgh Regional Court sentenced Sappi to a fine of R8-million, which was wholly suspended on condition that the company complies with the confiscation order and pays R8-million – R5-million to eThekwini Municipality (the complainant) and the remaining R3-million to the Criminal Assets Recovery Account (CARA).
These payments must be made by April 28 this year, and the plea was taken in consultation with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, and the eThekwini Municipality.
The criminal matter was finalised by Senior State Advocate Bonga Vika. Senior State Advocate Rajendrie Naidoo from the AFU successfully obtained the confiscation order.
“The National Prosecuting Authority welcomes the finalisation of this matter. This case demonstrates the hand-in-glove relationship between the AFU and prosecutors in ensuring that we take the profit out of crime,” said Natasha Ramkisson-Kara. “We congratulate all colleagues who ensured this successful prosecution.”
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