{"query_echo":{"q":"","filters":{"geography":["Dr Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality"]},"warnings":[{"code":"facet_value_not_in_vocabulary","message":"Value 'Dr Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality' for facet 'geography' is not in the controlled vocabulary."}]},"total":{"value":19,"relation":"eq"},"page":1,"page_size":20,"self":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/api/v1/search?geography=Dr+Pixley+Ka+Isaka+Seme+Local+Municipality","stability":"beta","ai_marking":{"digital_source_type":{"uri":"http://cv.iptc.org/newscodes/digitalsourcetype/trainedAlgorithmicMedia","name":"Created using Generative AI"},"notice":"Summary and key insights are generated using artificial intelligence."},"results":[{"id":"cer-000516","url":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/document/cer-000516","title":"APPELLANTS’ SUBMISSIONS IN TERMS OF SECTION 165 OF THE SPATIAL PLANNING AND LAND USE MANAGEMENT (SPLUM) BY-LAW FOR THE DR PIXLEY KA ISAKA SEME LOCAL MUNICIPALITY","publisher":{"name":"Centre for Environmental Rights","organization":"centre-for-environmental-rights"},"document_type":"report","language":"en","date_published":"2019-10-23","source_url":"https://cer.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Appellants-Submissions-23-October-2019.pdf?x21779","generator":"Climate Insights Directory","generated_fields":["summary","key_insights","climate_tags","geography_discussed","analysis_type"],"summary":{"text":"This document contains legal submissions by a coalition of eight environmental organisations, represented by the Centre for Environmental Rights, appealing a decision by the Gert Sibande District Joint Municipal Planning Tribunal. The appeal seeks to revoke the approval of a land-use change application by Atha-Africa Ventures (Pty) Ltd to enable the construction of the Yzermyn Underground Coal Mine on Portion 1 of the farm Yzermyn 96 HT, arguing that the decision is unlawful, environmentally catastrophic, and contrary to national water security interests.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000516#summary","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},"key_insights":[{"text":"The Appellants argue that the decision to approve the land-use change is unlawful because a previous decision by the Local Planning Tribunal on 14 November 2018 to dismiss the application was never legally set aside by a court, meaning the Tribunal was 'functus officio'.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000516#insight-1","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The proposed mine area is situated in a strategically critical water source area, specifically the Enkangala Drakensberg Strategic Water Source Area, which provides water to Gauteng, South Africa's economic hub.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000516#insight-2","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"Scientific reviews indicate that the mine would cause severe environmental harm through the dewatering of aquifers and the decant of contaminated groundwater and acid mine drainage, which could dry out wetlands and impact downstream users.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000516#insight-3","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The subject property is located in a 'protected area buffer zone' adjacent to the Mabola Protected Environment and falls within the 'Zone 1: Conservation' Environmental Management Zone, where mining is explicitly listed as an undesirable activity that is 'not allowed at all'.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000516#insight-4","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The Appellants claim the application constitutes a development affecting the national interest under section 52 of SPLUMA because it impacts endangered ecosystems (Wakkerstroom/Luneburg Grasslands) and international water obligations to Swaziland and Mozambique via the Usutu River System.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000516#insight-5","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The proposed mine is criticized for 'incremental decision-making', as the land-use change application only covers the surface infrastructure on Portion 1 of Yzermyn 96 HT, while the majority of the underground mining footprint falls within the Mabola Protected Environment without corresponding land-use applications.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000516#insight-6","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The Appellants assert that the project is socio-economically unsustainable, noting that the predicted 576 temporary jobs over a 15-year lifespan are unlikely to benefit local communities due to low local skill levels and would be outweighed by the loss of agricultural and tourism income.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000516#insight-7","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The submissions allege a failure in the administrative process, specifically regarding inadequate public participation and the failure of the District Municipal Planning Tribunal to consider the Appellants' formal objections or provide reasons for its decision.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000516#insight-8","date_modified":"2026-08-17"}],"climate_tags":["energy transition","coal mining","water security","biodiversity loss","land use planning"],"geography_discussed":["Gauteng","Eswatini","Mozambique","Gert Sibande District Municipality"],"frame_perspective":[],"analysis_type":["legal submission","environmental impact review","policy analysis"]},{"id":"cer-000790","url":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/document/cer-000790","title":"NOTICE OF APPEAL IN TERMS OF SECTION 142 OF THE SPATIAL PLANNING AND LAND USE MANAGEMENT (SPLUM) BY-LAW FOR THE DR PIXLEY KA ISAKA SEME LOCAL MUNICIPALITY, READ WITH SECTION 51 OF SPATIAL PLANNING AND LAND USE MANAGEMENT ACT, 2013 (ACT NO. 16 OF 2013)","publisher":{"name":"Centre for Environmental Rights","organization":"centre-for-environmental-rights"},"document_type":"statement","language":"en","date_published":"2019-07-03","source_url":"https://cer.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Coalition-Grounds-of-Appeal-03-07-2019.pdf?x21779","generator":"Climate Insights Directory","generated_fields":["summary","key_insights","climate_tags","geography_discussed","analysis_type"],"summary":{"text":"A notice of appeal filed on 3 July 2019 by a coalition of eight civil society and community non-profit organisations, represented by the Centre for Environmental Rights (CER), challenging the decision of the Gert Sibande District Municipal Planning Tribunal to approve a land-use change application for Portion 1 of the farm Yzermyn 96 HT in Mpumalanga Province.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000790#summary","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},"key_insights":[{"text":"The Appellants argue that the District Planning Tribunal's decision is unlawful because a previous decision by the Dr Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Joint Planning Tribunal on 14 November 2018 had already dismissed the application. They contend that this initial dismissal remains legally effective unless set aside by a court of law.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000790#insight-1","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The appeal alleges that the District Planning Tribunal failed to consider the detailed objections submitted by the Appellants on 30 May 2018, which is a requirement under Section 53(1) of the SPLUM By-Law.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000790#insight-2","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The Appellants claim the approval constitutes 'incremental decision-making' because the application only covers land-use change for Yzermyn Portion 1, while the proposed mine's underground footprint extends to five other properties for which no land-use change has been applied for or granted.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000790#insight-3","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The proposed mining project involves surface infrastructure on Yzermyn Portion 1 and underground mining on Yzermyn Portion 1 and five other properties; the Appellants note that the majority of the underground mining footprint is located within the Mabola Protected Environment (MPE).","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000790#insight-4","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The Appellants seek the revocation of the District Planning Tribunal's decision and the remittance of the matter back to the Tribunal. They further argue that the decision should be suspended pending the outcome of the appeal.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000790#insight-5","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The Appellants assert that the land development application affects the national interest and should have been referred to the Minister of Rural Development and Land Reform in accordance with Section 52 of SPLUMA.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000790#insight-6","date_modified":"2026-08-17"}],"climate_tags":["energy transition","mining"],"geography_discussed":["Mabola Protected Environment"],"frame_perspective":[],"analysis_type":["legal appeal"]},{"id":"cer-000683","url":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/document/cer-000683","title":"APPLICATION FOR CHANGE IN LAND-USE IN RESPECT OF PORTION 1 OF YZERMYN 96 HT, IN THE DR PIXLEY KA ISAKA SEME LOCAL MUNICIPALITY AND THE GERT SIBANDE DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY, MPUMALANGA","publisher":{"name":"Centre for Environmental Rights","organization":"centre-for-environmental-rights"},"document_type":"statement","language":"en","date_published":"2019-07-02","source_url":"https://cer.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/CER-letter-to-Municipalities-2-July-2019.pdf?x21779","generator":"Climate Insights Directory","generated_fields":["summary","key_insights","analysis_type"],"summary":{"text":"The Centre for Environmental Rights (CER) is challenging the approval of a land-use change for Portion 1 of the farm Yzermyn 96 HT in Mpumalanga. The CER argues that the approval by the Gert Sibande Joint Municipal Planning Tribunal is invalid because a previous decision by the Dr Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Joint Municipal Planning Tribunal to dismiss the application remains legally binding.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000683#summary","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},"key_insights":[{"text":"The Dr Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality Joint Municipal Planning Tribunal (the Pixley Tribunal) initially dismissed an application by Atha-Africa Ventures (Pty) Ltd (Atha) for a change in land-use for Portion 1 of the farm Yzermyn 96 HT. This decision, communicated on 30 November 2018, was based on the finding that the applicant lacked locus standi because they were neither the owner of the land nor authorized by the owner.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000683#insight-1","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The Gert Sibande Joint Municipal Planning Tribunal (the Gert Sibande Tribunal) subsequently approved the land-use application on 29 April 2019, rezoning Portion 1 of the farm Yzermyn 96 HT from 'AGRICULTURE' to 'SPECIAL'.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000683#insight-2","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The CER argues that the Gert Sibande Tribunal's approval is unlawful and invalid because the Pixley Tribunal's original dismissal was a final administrative action. The CER asserts that the Pixley Tribunal is 'functus officio' and its decision remains valid unless set aside by a court of law.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000683#insight-3","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The CER highlights procedural irregularities regarding the transition between the two tribunals, noting that the Practice Group (representing Atha) claimed the first decision was 'erroneously communicated' via an unverified telephone call, and that registered objectors were not notified of any subsequent hearings.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000683#insight-4","date_modified":"2026-08-17"}],"climate_tags":[],"geography_discussed":[],"frame_perspective":[],"analysis_type":["summary"]},{"id":"cer-000684","url":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/document/cer-000684","title":"APPLICATION FOR CHANGE IN LAND-USE (IN TERMS OF REGULATION 18 OF THE SPLUM REGULATIONS), IN RESPECT OF PORTION 1 OF YZERMYN 96 HT, IN THE DR PIXLEY KA ISAKA SEME LOCAL MUNICIPALITY AND THE GERT SIBANDE DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY, MPUMALANGA","publisher":{"name":"Centre for Environmental Rights","organization":"centre-for-environmental-rights"},"document_type":"statement","language":"en","date_published":"2019-03-15","source_url":"https://cer.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/CER-letter-to-Municipality-15-March-2019.pdf?x21779","generator":"Climate Insights Directory","generated_fields":["summary","key_insights"],"summary":{"text":"The Centre for Environmental Rights (CER) wrote to the Municipal Manager of the Dr Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality on 15 March 2019 to request the status of a land-use change application for Portion 1 of Yzermyn 96 HT, following reports that a previous outcome was communicated erroneously.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000684#summary","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},"key_insights":[{"text":"The Centre for Environmental Rights (CER) is representing a coalition including the Mining and Environmental Justice Community Network of South Africa (MEJCON-SA), groundWork, Earthlife Africa Johannesburg, Birdlife South Africa, Endangered Wildlife Trust, Federation for a Sustainable Environment, Association for Water and Rural Development (AWARD), and Bench Marks Foundation. On 29 January 2019, the CER submitted a petition to intervene in an appeal lodged by the Practice Group on behalf of Atha Africa Ventures (Pty) Ltd.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000684#insight-1","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"A communication dated 30 November 2018 regarding the change of land use over Portion 1 of the farm Yzermyn 96 was reportedly communicated to the applicant, Atha-Africa, in error. The Practice Group stated that the Municipality informed them telephonically that the outcome was not an official decision of the Tribunal and that the matter would be submitted to the Municipal Planning Tribunal for a hearing.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000684#insight-2","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"As of 15 March 2019, the CER had received no further communication from the Municipal Manager's office or the Practice Group and requested an update on the status of the land use change application, the Practice Group's appeal, and the CER's petition to intervene.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000684#insight-3","date_modified":"2026-08-17"}],"climate_tags":[],"geography_discussed":[],"frame_perspective":[],"analysis_type":[]},{"id":"cer-001258","url":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/document/cer-001258","title":"PETITION TO BE GRANTED INTERVENER STATUS IN RE: APPEAL BY THE PRACTICE GROUP (PTY) LTD (ON BEHALF OF ATHA VENTURES AFRICA (PTY) LTD) AGAINST THE DECISION OF THE JOINT MUNICIPAL PLANNING TRIBUNAL SITTING IN THE APPLICATION FOR CHANGE IN LAND-USE (IN TERMS OF REGULATION 18 OF THE SPLUM REGULATIONS) IN RESPECT OF PORTION 1 OF YZERMYN 96 HT, IN THE DR PIXLEY KA ISAKA SEME LOCAL MUNICIPALITY AND THE GERT SIBANDE DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY, MPUMALANGA","publisher":{"name":"Centre for Environmental Rights","organization":"centre-for-environmental-rights"},"document_type":"statement","language":"en","date_published":"2019-01-29","source_url":"https://cer.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Petition-for-Intervener-Status-in-Appeal-29-01-2019.pdf?x21779","generator":"Climate Insights Directory","generated_fields":["summary","key_insights","climate_tags","geography_discussed","analysis_type"],"summary":{"text":"A petition submitted by eight civil society organisations, represented by the Centre for Environmental Rights (CER), seeking intervener status in an appeal by the Practice Group (Pty) Ltd on behalf of Atha-Africa Ventures (Pty) Ltd. The appeal concerns a land-use change application for Portion 1 of Yzermyn 96 HT in the Dr Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality, Mpumalanga, to transition the land from agriculture to mining.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001258#summary","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},"key_insights":[{"text":"Eight civil society organisations are petitioning for intervener status to oppose a land-use change from agriculture to mining at Portion 1 of Yzermyn 96 HT. These petitioners include the Mining and Environmental Justice Community Network of South Africa, groundWork, Earthlife Africa Johannesburg, Birdlife South Africa, Endangered Wildlife Trust, Federation for a Sustainable Environment, Association for Water and Rural Development (AWARD), and Bench Marks Foundation.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001258#insight-1","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The area proposed for mining is identified as a high-priority conservation and water security zone. It is part of the Enkangala Drakensberg Strategic Water Source Area, which provides a significant portion of South Africa's surface water run-off and supplies water to Gauteng via the Vaal River System.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001258#insight-2","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The site is located within the Wakkerstroom/Luneburg Grasslands, which is classified as an endangered ecosystem. Additionally, the area is designated as a 'Zone 1: Conservation' Environmental Management Zone, where mining and prospecting are explicitly listed as undesirable activities that should not be allowed.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001258#insight-3","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The proposed mine area is categorized as a Category B area under the 'Mining and Biodiversity Guideline', indicating the highest biodiversity importance and the highest risk for mining. In such areas, the likelihood of a 'fatal flaw' for new mining projects is considered very high.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001258#insight-4","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The petitioners have initiated multiple legal challenges against the project, including judicial reviews of the mining right in the Pretoria High Court and the environmental authorisation in the Mbombela High Court. They successfully obtained a Pretoria High Court judgment on 8 November 2018 setting aside permissions for Atha to mine inside a Protected Environment.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001258#insight-5","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The Joint Municipal Planning Tribunal previously removed the application from consideration on 14 November 2018, concluding that the Appellant lacked the standing (locus standi) to represent the owner. The petitioners argue that while the decision to reject the application was correct, the reasoning was incorrect and should instead be based on the environmental objections they raised.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001258#insight-6","date_modified":"2026-08-17"}],"climate_tags":["energy transition","coal mining","biodiversity","water security"],"geography_discussed":["Gauteng"],"frame_perspective":[],"analysis_type":["legal petition","environmental advocacy"]},{"id":"cer-000443","url":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/document/cer-000443","title":"OBJECTION TO APPLICATION IN TERMS OF REGULATION 18(1)(b) OF THE SPATIAL PLANNING AND LAND USE MANAGEMENT REGULATIONS: LAND USE MANAGEMENT AND GENERAL MATTERS, 2015 READ WITH SECTION 98 OF THE SPATIAL PLANNING AND LAND USE MANAGEMENT BY-LAW FOR PIXLEY KA ISAKA SEME LOCAL MUNICIPALITY, 2016","publisher":{"name":"Centre for Environmental Rights","organization":"centre-for-environmental-rights"},"document_type":"statement","language":"en","date_published":"2018-07-16","source_url":"https://cer.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Annexure-D.pdf?x21779","generator":"Climate Insights Directory","generated_fields":["summary","key_insights","climate_tags","geography_discussed","analysis_type"],"summary":{"text":"The Centre for Environmental Rights (CER) submitted a response on 16 July 2018 to the Dr Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality, reiterating objections to a land-use change application for a proposed mine. The CER argues that the subject property is a high-priority conservation area and that the Municipality has the legal authority and obligation under the Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Act (SPLUMA) to consider environmental and water impacts, despite claims to the contrary by the applicant's agent.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000443#summary","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},"key_insights":[{"text":"The subject property of the land-use change application is identified as a high-priority conservation and ecological area across multiple planning documents: it is an \"Ecological Support Area: protected area buffer zone\" in the Mpumalanga Biodiversity Sector Plan-2014 (MBSP), a \"sensitive natural area\" in the Spatial Development Framework (SDF), a \"Zone 1: Conservation\" Environmental Management Zone in the Environmental Management Framework (EMF), a priority area for the National Protected Area Expansion Strategy (NPAES), a priority river and wetland ecosystem in the National Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Areas (NFEPA), and a Strategic Water Source Area.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000443#insight-1","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The CER disputes the assertion by the applicant's agent, Mr Dacomb, that environmental and water impacts are outside the \"ambit of authorisation\" for the Municipality. The CER argues that SPLUMA's preamble requires the integration of \"social, economic and environmental considerations\" in land use management to ensure sustainable development for present and future generations.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000443#insight-2","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The CER cites High Court decisions in Le Sueur v Ethekwini Municipality and Nel v Hessequa Local Municipality to support the claim that the municipal sphere of government is competent to regulate environmental functions, noting that the Municipality's own SDF and EMF regulate water and environmental considerations.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000443#insight-3","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The CER contends that section 52 of SPLUMA applies to the application because it affects the national interest. Referencing the Constitutional Court decision in Maccsand v City of Cape Town, the CER argues that different spheres of government must cooperate and coordinate actions when powers overlap, rather than operating in \"hermetically sealed compartments\".","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000443#insight-4","date_modified":"2026-08-17"}],"climate_tags":["energy transition","mining","biodiversity","water management","land use planning"],"geography_discussed":["Mpumalanga","Volksrust"],"frame_perspective":[],"analysis_type":["legal objection","policy analysis"]},{"id":"cer-000384","url":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/document/cer-000384","title":"OBJECTION TO APPLICATION IN TERMS OF REGULATION 18(1)(b) OF THE SPATIAL PLANNING AND LAND USE MANAGEMENT REGULATIONS: LAND USE MANAGEMENT AND GENERAL MATTERS, 2015 READ WITH SECTION 98 OF THE SPACIAL PLANNING AND LAND USE MANAGEMENT BY-LAW FOR PIXLEY KA ISAKA SEME LOCAL MUNICIPALITY, 2016","publisher":{"name":"Centre for Environmental Rights","organization":"centre-for-environmental-rights"},"document_type":"statement","language":"en","date_published":"2018-05-30","source_url":"https://cer.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Annexure-A.pdf?x21779","generator":"Climate Insights Directory","generated_fields":["summary","key_insights","climate_tags","geography_discussed","analysis_type"],"summary":{"text":"This document is a formal objection submitted by the Centre for Environmental Rights on behalf of a coalition of eight civil society and community non-profit organisations. The objection opposes an application by Atha-Africa Ventures (Pty) Ltd to change the land use of Portion 1 of the Farm Yzermyn 96 in Mpumalanga from agricultural to mining purposes to facilitate the construction of the proposed Yzermyn Underground Coal Mine.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000384#summary","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},"key_insights":[{"text":"The proposed Yzermyn Underground Coal Mine is situated in a protected area buffer zone adjacent to the Mabola Protected Environment and corresponds with several wetlands. Underground mining activities and certain surface infrastructure, such as pipelines and boreholes, would fall directly within the protected area.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000384#insight-1","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"Scientific assessments, including one by NSS commissioned by the applicant, conclude that the project is 'fatally flawed' from a biodiversity perspective. The primary concerns are the dewatering of aquifers and the potential for groundwater contamination, which would significantly impact aquatic and wetland ecosystem functioning.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000384#insight-2","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The dewatering of aquifers is expected to lower groundwater levels, potentially drying out wetlands and reducing flow into the Assegaai River. NSS reports that at least 40% of the underground mining and surface infrastructure area consists of wetland habitat, and the impact is rated as 'HIGH' significance both with and without mitigation.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000384#insight-3","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The project poses a severe risk of acid mine drainage and contaminated groundwater decant. Because the mine is located in the headwaters of the Assegaai River, contamination would threaten water resources and users in the lower catchment, with NSS rating this impact as 'HIGH' and mitigation as impossible.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000384#insight-4","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The proposed mine area contains several vulnerable species, including six floral species at high risk of extinction, 30 species protected under the Mpumalanga Conservation Act, and various Conservation Important mammals and birds. The site falls within an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA) identified by BirdLife International.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000384#insight-5","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The mine would negatively impact local subsistence farmers and poor rural communities who rely on 23 springs in the project area for domestic and livestock water. Approximately eight low-income homesteads are located on the site, and these residents are considered vulnerable from a livelihood perspective.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000384#insight-6","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The objectors argue that the application for land use change is fundamentally flawed and fails to comply with the Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Act (SPLUMA) and local by-laws. Specifically, they claim there was inadequate public participation and that the application did not lie for inspection during the advertised period.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000384#insight-7","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The Dr Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality' same Spatial Development Framework (SDF) identifies the area as a 'sensitive natural area' and states that mining is an 'undesirable' activity not allowed in Zone 1: Conservation areas. The SDF notes that agriculture contributes 18.85% to the local GVA, while mining contributes only 0.92%.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000384#insight-8","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The objectors contend that the application affects the national interest under section 52 of SPLUMA because it impacts a strategic water source area that feeds the Upper Vaal, Thukela, and Usutu to Mhlathuze river systems, with the latter extending into Swaziland and Mozambique.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000384#insight-9","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"Atha-Africa Ventures' socio-economic report estimates 576 employment opportunities during construction and operation over a 15-year lifespan. However, the report admits that local skills levels are low, making it unlikely that the required labour will be found within local communities without active skills development.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000384#insight-10","date_modified":"2026-08-17"}],"climate_tags":["energy transition","coal mining","biodiversity","water security"],"geography_discussed":["Mabola Protected Environment","Wakkerstroom","Volksrust"],"frame_perspective":[],"analysis_type":["legal objection","environmental impact review"]},{"id":"cer-001229","url":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/document/cer-001229","title":"OBJECTION TO APPLICATION IN TERMS OF REGULATION 18(1)(b) OF THE SPATIAL PLANNING AND LAND USE MANAGEMENT REGULATIONS: LAND USE MANAGEMENT AND GENERAL MATTERS, 2015 READ WITH SECTION 98 OF THE SPACIAL PLANNING AND LAND USE MANAGEMENT BY-LAW FOR PIXLEY KA ISAKA SEME LOCAL MUNICIPALITY, 2016","publisher":{"name":"Centre for Environmental Rights","organization":"centre-for-environmental-rights"},"document_type":"statement","language":"en","date_published":"2018-05-30","source_url":"https://cer.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Objection-30.05.2018.pdf?x21779","generator":"Climate Insights Directory","generated_fields":["summary","key_insights","climate_tags","geography_discussed","analysis_type"],"summary":{"text":"This document is a formal objection submitted by the Centre for Environmental Rights on behalf of a coalition of eight civil society and community non-profit organisations. The objection opposes an application by Atha-Africa Ventures (Pty) Ltd to change the land use of Portion 1 of the Farm Yzermyn 96 in Mpumalanga from agricultural to mining purposes to facilitate the construction of the Yzermyn Underground Coal Mine. The objectors argue that the project would cause irreparable harm to a strategic water source area, threaten biodiversity in the Mabola Protected Environment, and negatively impact vulnerable local communities, while failing to comply with municipal spatial development frameworks and national interest requirements under the Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Act (SPLUMA).","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001229#summary","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},"key_insights":[{"text":"The proposed Yzermyn Underground Coal Mine is situated in a strategically important area for conservation and national water security, specifically within a 'sensitive natural area' and a 'protected area buffer zone' adjacent to the Mabola Protected Environment.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001229#insight-1","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"Scientific assessments, including one commissioned by the applicant (NSS), conclude that the project is 'fatally flawed' due to the high risk of groundwater contamination and the dewatering of aquifers, which would significantly impact aquatic and wetland ecosystems.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001229#insight-2","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The mine poses a severe threat of acid mine drainage and contaminated groundwater decant, which the NSS report identifies as the 'most severe impact of coal mining on water resources' and considers impossible to mitigate.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001229#insight-3","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The proposed mining area contains high biodiversity value, including six floral species at high risk of extinction, 30 protected species under the Mpumalanga Conservation Act, and several Conservation Important mammal and bird species.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001229#insight-4","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The project threatens the livelihoods of vulnerable local communities, including subsistence farmers who rely on 23 springs in the project area for domestic and livestock water, which would be negatively impacted by aquifer dewatering.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001229#insight-5","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The objectors argue that the economic benefits are overstated, noting that the 576 potential jobs are temporary (15-year mine life) and unlikely to benefit locals due to a lack of required skills, whereas agriculture contributes significantly more to the local GVA (18.85%) than mining (0.92%).","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001229#insight-6","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The application is alleged to have failed mandatory public participation and consultation processes required by the SPLUM Regulations and the Municipal By-Law, as well as failing to conduct required specialist studies for Conservation, Agriculture, and Tourism zones.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001229#insight-7","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The objectors contend that the application affects the national interest under Section 52 of SPLUMA because it impacts a 'water factory' area that feeds three major river systems (Upper Vaal, Thukela, and Usuthu to Mhlatuze) and affects international water obligations to Swaziland and Mozambique.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001229#insight-8","date_modified":"2026-08-17"}],"climate_tags":["coal mining","water security","biodiversity loss","wetlands","land use management"],"geography_discussed":["Wakkerstroom","Volksrust","Eswatini","Mozambique","Gauteng","KwaZulu-Natal"],"frame_perspective":[],"analysis_type":["legal objection","environmental impact review"]},{"id":"cer-000772","url":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/document/cer-000772","title":"APPELLANTS’ SUBMISSIONS IN THE APPEAL ON 15 TO 17 AUGUST 2017","publisher":{"name":"Centre for Environmental Rights","organization":"centre-for-environmental-rights"},"document_type":"report","language":"en","date_published":"2017-08-14","source_url":"https://cer.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/CER_EA_appeal_submissions_FINAL.pdf?x21779","generator":"Climate Insights Directory","generated_fields":["summary","key_insights","climate_tags","geography_discussed","analysis_type"],"summary":{"text":"This document contains the legal and technical submissions made by a coalition of eight appellants (including Earthlife Africa Johannesburg and BirdLife South Africa) on August 14, 2017, appealing an environmental authorisation (EA) granted to Atha-Africa Ventures (Pty) Ltd for the Yzermyn underground coal mine in Mpumalanga, South Africa.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000772#summary","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},"key_insights":[{"text":"The proposed Yzermyn underground coal mine is located within the Mabola Protected Environment (MPE), an area declared as a protected environment on January 22, 2014. The mine would utilize the bord-and-pillar mining method with an estimated life of 15 years.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000772#insight-1","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"Specialist reports indicate that the mine area contains wetlands of 'VERY HIGH' Ecological Importance and Sensitivity (EIS) and a 'Category A' Present Ecological State (PES), meaning they are natural and unmodified. The area is also part of the Wakkerstroom/Luneburg Grasslands, which is listed as an endangered ecosystem.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000772#insight-2","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"Dewatering activities required for the underground mine are predicted to create 'cones of dewatering' extending several kilometers, potentially causing the reduction or complete cessation of spring yields and negatively impacting wetlands fed by shallow aquifers.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000772#insight-3","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"There is a high risk of Acid Mine Drainage (AMD) post-closure. Specialists predict that mine voids will flood approximately 45 years after active dewatering stops, leading to the decant of contaminated water into surface water resources, including the Assegaai River.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000772#insight-4","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The appellants identify significant gaps in the Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR), including a lack of geochemical modelling for AMD, no assessment of the risk of subsidence, and a failure to adequately evaluate cumulative impacts with other mines like the Loskop Coal Mine.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000772#insight-5","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The socio-economic benefits for the local community are argued to be minimal. While 576 jobs are projected, the EIAR suggests most skilled labor will be sourced nationally or from India, and the total community investment of R6.06 million over five years represents only 0.06% of the anticipated ten-year revenue.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000772#insight-6","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The mine's strategic importance is questioned, as it would contribute only 0.86% of South Africa's total coal reserves and produces 'low grade bituminous coal'. Furthermore, 67.4% of the coal is intended for export, contradicting claims that the project ensures local energy security.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000772#insight-7","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The appellants contend that the Chief Director of the Mpumalanga Environmental Department lacked the authority to grant the EA. They argue the Minister of Environmental Affairs is the correct competent authority because the project impacts international commitments under the Ramsar Convention, the Migratory Species Convention, the Biological Diversity Convention, and the UNFCCC.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000772#insight-8","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The Environmental Management Programme (EMPr) is alleged to be legally deficient because it fails to provide specific design, capacity, or implementation timelines for the proposed water treatment plant, which is a primary mitigation measure for AMD.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000772#insight-9","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The appellants claim that the Environmental Assessment Practitioners (EAPs) from EcoPartners were not professionally registered with the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP), as required by the Natural Scientific Professions Act 27 of 2003.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000772#insight-10","date_modified":"2026-08-17"}],"climate_tags":["coal mining","greenhouse gas emissions","methane","climate change commitments","energy transition"],"geography_discussed":["Gauteng"],"frame_perspective":[],"analysis_type":["legal submission","environmental impact assessment review","socio-economic analysis"]},{"id":"cer-000452","url":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/document/cer-000452","title":"APPLICATION FOR AMENDMENT OF THE RELEVANT TOWN-PLANNING SCHEME AND IN TERMS OF SECTION 66 OF AN APPLICABLE PIXLEY KA SEME MUNICIPAL PLANNING LAND USE BY-LAW AND IN TERMS OF THE SPATIAL PLANNING AND LAND USE MANAGEMENT ACT 16 OF 2013 (SPLUMA) FOR THE REZONING OF PORTION 1 OF THE FARM YZERMYN 96 HT","publisher":{"name":"Centre for Environmental Rights","organization":"centre-for-environmental-rights"},"document_type":"statement","language":"en","date_published":"2017-02-15","source_url":"https://cer.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Annexure-D2.pdf?x21779","generator":"Climate Insights Directory","generated_fields":["summary","key_insights","climate_tags","geography_discussed","analysis_type"],"summary":{"text":"The Centre for Environmental Rights (CER) submitted a formal statement to the Dr Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality challenging a land use application for Portion 1 of the Farm Yzermyn 96 HT. The CER argues that the application for rezoning is legally flawed because no town-planning scheme exists for the area, and that the process has failed to meet statutory requirements for public notice and inspection.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000452#summary","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},"key_insights":[{"text":"The application for the rezoning of Portion 1 of the Farm Yzermyn 96 HT is legally misconceived because there is no town planning scheme currently in place for the Dr Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality for land outside of Volksrust, nor has a land use scheme under the Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Act 16 of 2013 (SPLUMA) been approved for that area.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000452#insight-1","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"Because the property was lawfully used for agricultural purposes before SPLUMA commenced on 1 July 2015, any transition to mining purposes requires an application for a change of land use under section 26(4) of the SPLUMA, rather than a rezoning application.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000452#insight-2","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"Public notices published in the Volksrust Recorder on 6 January 2017 and 3 February 2017 were defective as they provided fewer than the required 30 days for objections, lacked valid contact details for the agent (Uphondolwendlovu Town Planners (Pty) Ltd), and omitted contact details for the relevant municipal employee.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000452#insight-3","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The application was not available for public inspection during the advertised period. Attempts by the Endangered Wildlife Trust and other representatives to view the documents at the Municipality's offices were unsuccessful, and the agent refused to provide an electronic copy.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000452#insight-4","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The CER disputes Atha-Africa Ventures (Pty) Ltd's claim that the Municipal Manager is the sole 'authorised official' for determining the application, asserting that under SPLUMA and its regulations, such applications must generally be heard by a Municipal Planning Tribunal unless specific categorisation criteria have been met by the Council.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000452#insight-5","date_modified":"2026-08-17"}],"climate_tags":["land use","mining","environmental law","spatial planning"],"geography_discussed":["Volksrust","Middelberg","Mpumalanga"],"frame_perspective":[],"analysis_type":["legal challenge","procedural review"]},{"id":"cer-000451","url":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/document/cer-000451","title":"APPLICATION FOR AMENDMENT OF THE RELEVANT TOWN-PLANNING SCHEME AND IN TERMS OF SECTION 66 OF AN APPLICABLE PIXLEY KA SEME MUNICIPAL PLANNING LAND USE BY-LAW AND IN TERMS OF THE SPATIAL PLANNING AND LAND USE MANAGEMENT ACT 16 OF 2013 (SPLUMA) FOR THE REZONING OF PORTION 1 OF THE FARM YZERMYN 96 HT","publisher":{"name":"Centre for Environmental Rights","organization":"centre-for-environmental-rights"},"document_type":"statement","language":"en","date_published":"2017-01-25","source_url":"https://cer.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Annexure-D1.pdf?x21779","generator":"Climate Insights Directory","generated_fields":["summary","key_insights","climate_tags","geography_discussed","analysis_type"],"summary":{"text":"The Centre for Environmental Rights (CER), representing several environmental and community organizations, submitted a formal objection to a rezoning application for Portion 1 of the farm Yzermyn 96 HT. The CER argues that the public notice for the rezoning was legally deficient and that the Dr Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality failed to provide access to the application documents, hindering the clients' ability to submit detailed objections.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000451#summary","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},"key_insights":[{"text":"The CER asserts that the public notice for the rezoning application is invalid because it provided a 21-day comment period, which contradicts section 100(h) of the Spatial Planning and Land Use Management (Splum) By-Law requiring a minimum of 30 days. Additionally, the notice failed to include the applicant's identity and contact details as required by section 100(a), and the municipal employee's contact details as required by section 100(e).","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000451#insight-1","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The CER and its clients, including the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT), report multiple failed attempts to access the rezoning application and related documents from the Dr Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality and Uphondolwendlovu Town Planners (Pty) Ltd. Efforts included physical visits to municipal offices, telephone calls, and emails, but the full application was not provided.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000451#insight-2","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The clients formally object to the application to amend the town-planning scheme and rezone Portion 1 of the farm Yzermyn 96 HT from agricultural use to mining for the purpose of coal mining.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000451#insight-3","date_modified":"2026-08-17"}],"climate_tags":["coal mining","land use","environmental justice"],"geography_discussed":["Volksrust","Balfour","Mpumalanga","Wakkerstroom"],"frame_perspective":[],"analysis_type":["legal objection","administrative challenge"]},{"id":"cer-001336","url":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/document/cer-001336","title":"NOTICE OF APPEAL IN TERMS OF SECTION 96(1) OF THE MINERAL AND PETROLEUM RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT ACT, 2002","publisher":{"name":"Centre for Environmental Rights","organization":"centre-for-environmental-rights"},"document_type":"statement","language":"en","date_published":"2015-03-30","source_url":"https://cer.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/S96-Appeal-Atha-Africa-Ventures-MP30_5_1_2_2_10069MR.pdf?x21779","generator":"Climate Insights Directory","generated_fields":["summary","key_insights","climate_tags","geography_discussed","analysis_type"],"summary":{"text":"This document is a formal notice of appeal filed on 30 March 2015 by eight environmental organisations, represented by the Centre for Environmental Rights, against the granting of mining right MP30/5/1/2/2/1/0069MR to Atha-Africa Ventures (Pty) Ltd (AAV). The appeal seeks to set aside the right and suspend its operation, arguing that the proposed Yzermyn underground coal mine is located in the Mabola Protected Environment and the Wakkerstroom Wetlands Area, regions of irreplaceable biodiversity and critical hydrological importance.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001336#summary","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},"key_insights":[{"text":"The appellants argue that the mining right was granted despite evidence that the project would cause unacceptable environmental damage. A consultant's report submitted as part of AAV's own application recommended the area be a \"no go\" for mining due to impacts on biodiversity and surface water resources.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001336#insight-1","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The proposed mining area is located within the Mabola Protected Environment, declared on 22 January 2014. The appellants claim the mining right is unlawful because the required written permission from the Minister of Environmental Affairs and the Minister of Mineral Resources under section 48(1)(b) of NEMPAA was not obtained.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001336#insight-2","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The site is identified as having extreme ecological sensitivity, including being classified as having \"irreplaceable\" biodiversity value in the 2006 Mpumalanga Biodiversity Conservation Plan and being part of the Wakkerstroom/Luneburg Grasslands Threatened Ecosystem, which is listed as an \"endangered ecosystem\".","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001336#insight-3","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The area is designated as both a National Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Area (NFEPA) and a Strategic Water Source Area (SWSA). These areas are critical for water quality and supply, providing 50% of the water for South Africa, Lesotho, and Swaziland despite making up only 8% of the land area.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001336#insight-4","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The grant of the mining right contradicts previous government statements and policies. The Department of Mineral Resources (DMR) Annual Report for 2011/12 and the Minister of Mineral Resources' 2012 Budget Vote Speech indicated that action had been taken to prohibit mining in environmentally sensitive areas of Wakkerstroom and Chrissiesmeer.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001336#insight-5","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"Multiple state organs formally objected to the mining right. The Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA) rejected AAV's first environmental impact assessment report (EIAR), and the Department of Water Affairs (now Department of Water and Sanitation) stated it did not support the development, citing risks of acid mine drainage and the dewatering of wetlands.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001336#insight-6","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The appellants contend that the conditions imposed by the DMR when granting the right—such as excluding wetlands from surface mining—are \"unlawful, vague and unenforceable\" because the entire area is considered sensitive and a strategic water resource.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001336#insight-7","date_modified":"2026-08-17"}],"climate_tags":["biodiversity","water security","coal mining","protected areas","environmental legislation"],"geography_discussed":["Gert Sibande District Municipality","Dr Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality"],"frame_perspective":[],"analysis_type":["legal appeal","environmental impact assessment"]},{"id":"cer-000242","url":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/document/cer-000242","title":"3.2-annexures-a7cd5f38edf0c1c1.pdf","publisher":{"name":"Centre for Environmental Rights","organization":"centre-for-environmental-rights"},"document_type":"statement","language":"en","date_published":null,"source_url":"https://cer.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/3.2-Annexures.pdf?x21779","generator":"Climate Insights Directory","generated_fields":["summary","key_insights","climate_tags","geography_discussed","analysis_type"],"summary":{"text":"This document consists of a series of legal statements, permissions, and correspondence regarding the Yzermyn underground coal mine project in Mpumalanga, South Africa. It includes a formal permission from the Ministers of Environmental Affairs and Mineral Resources for Atha-Africa Ventures (Pty) Ltd to mine within the Mabola Protected Environment, a land use approval from the Dr Pixley ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality, and a detailed statement of grounds for appeal filed by a coalition of environmental organisations. The appeal argues that the project is 'fatally flawed' due to its potential for irreversible damage to critical biodiversity, wetlands, and water resources, and claims that the socio-economic benefits to local communities were overestimated.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000242#summary","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},"key_insights":[{"text":"The Ministers of Environmental Affairs and Mineral Resources granted Atha-Africa Ventures (Pty) Ltd permission to conduct underground coal mining within the Mabola Protected Environment under Section 48 of the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act (NEMPAA), 2003.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000242#insight-1","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The permission to mine is subject to several specific conditions, including the appointment of an independent Environmental Control Officer (ECO), the submission of quarterly compliance reports, and the implementation of a plant rescue and protection plan for conservation-important species.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000242#insight-2","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"A coalition of eight appellants, including Earthlife Africa Johannesburg and Birdlife South Africa, appealed the approval of the Environmental Management Programme (EMPR), arguing that it lacks appropriate mitigation measures for water resources and biodiversity.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000242#insight-3","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"Biodiversity specialists from Natural Scientific Services (NSS) concluded that the project should be a 'NO GO' because the underground mining would significantly impact water supply to surface water resources and cause potential groundwater contamination.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000242#insight-4","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The NSS biodiversity report identified that the mine is located in the Grassland Biome, which has extremely high biodiversity, and noted the presence of six floral species at high risk of extinction and 30 protected species.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000242#insight-5","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The project is predicted to cause a lowering of groundwater levels—up to 10m in the shallow aquifer and up to 55m in the deeper aquifer—which could dry up springs and negatively impact wetlands.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000242#insight-6","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"Appellants claim the project's socio-economic assessment is unbalanced, noting that while it predicts 576 operational jobs, skilled labour and management are likely to be sourced from outside the local area or from India.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000242#insight-7","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The Department of Water Affairs (DWA) expressed that it did not support the mining development, citing concerns over the location in sensitive habitats and the risk of acid mine drainage (AMD) post-closure.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000242#insight-8","date_modified":"2026-08-17"}],"climate_tags":["energy transition","coal mining","biodiversity loss","water security","environmental regulation"],"geography_discussed":["Wakkerstroom"],"frame_perspective":[],"analysis_type":["legal appeal","environmental impact assessment","administrative permission"]},{"id":"cer-000254","url":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/document/cer-000254","title":"6-9bf69c53679fa3d1.pdf","publisher":{"name":"Centre for Environmental Rights","organization":"centre-for-environmental-rights"},"document_type":"report","language":"en","date_published":null,"source_url":"https://cer.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/6.pdf?x21779","generator":"Climate Insights Directory","generated_fields":["summary","key_insights","climate_tags","geography_discussed","analysis_type"],"summary":{"text":"This report presents the Environmental Management Framework (EMF) and Strategic Environmental Management Plan (SEMP) for the Dr Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality (PKISLM) in Mpumalanga, South Africa. Developed by SRK Consulting and BKS, the document provides a spatial and descriptive analysis of the region's environmental attributes—including biodiversity, water resources, and geology—to guide sustainable land-use planning and decision-making. It integrates legal frameworks, stakeholder recommendations, and socio-economic data to establish environmental management zones that balance development with the conservation of critical ecosystems, particularly the grassland biome and various wetland systems.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000254#summary","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},"key_insights":[{"text":"The Dr Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality (PKISLM) covers 522,204 hectares and is situated within the grassland biome, which is identified as \"one of the most threatened biomes in South Africa\".","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000254#insight-1","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The region is a critical water catchment area containing the headwaters of three major river systems: the Upper Vaal, Thukela, and Usutu to Mhlatuze. The area is strategically important as it provides a \"important source of water for the Gauteng region\".","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000254#insight-2","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"Wetlands and dams occupy approximately 18.9% of the municipal area, totaling 124,734 hectares. Hillslope seepage wetlands are the most prevalent type, accounting for 67% of the total wetland area, followed by valley bottom wetlands at 31%.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000254#insight-3","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The Wakkerstroom Wet Grasslands (WWG) cover 233,393 hectares across 120 farms and are of high biodiversity value. Approximately 82.5% of the WWG remains in a natural state, with 83% classified as threatened ecosystems (75.6% Endangered and the rest Vulnerable).","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000254#insight-4","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"Air quality is a significant concern as the municipality is part of the Highveld Priority Area, where ambient air quality may exceed standards. Key contributors to pollution include biomass burning, household fuel burning, vehicle use, and industrial emissions from the Majuba power station.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000254#insight-5","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"Agriculture is the second largest economic sector in the PKISLM, with commercial mixed farming (maize, sorghum, sunflower, beans, and soya beans) and wool production contributing significantly to the local economy. However, the sector faces challenges from land reform processes and road damage caused by coal trucks.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000254#insight-6","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"Mining in the area is primarily small-scale coal production, with some sand and dolerite mining. While coal deposits are sizable, they are often deep and uneconomical at current prices, though underground coal gasification is being piloted for the Majuba power station.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000254#insight-7","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The municipality faces severe service delivery challenges: only 45% of households have access to flush toilets connected to sewage systems, and approximately 7,567 electricity supply backlogs remain. Waste management is poor, with only the Volksrust site being a licensed landfill.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000254#insight-8","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"Socio-economic conditions are characterized by low employment (29.3%) and low average monthly earnings of approximately R600, which is significantly below the Gert Sibande District Municipality average of R1,475.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000254#insight-9","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The region possesses significant cultural and historical assets, including San Stone Age paintings at the foot of the Amajuba Mountain, the Mahatma Ghandi museum, and battle sites from the Anglo-Transvaal and Anglo-Boer Wars.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000254#insight-10","date_modified":"2026-08-17"}],"climate_tags":["climate change","greenhouse gas emissions","water resources","biodiversity conservation","land use planning"],"geography_discussed":["Gert Sibande District Municipality","Wakkerstroom","Volksrust","Amersfoort","Daggakraal","Perdekop"],"frame_perspective":[],"analysis_type":["environmental assessment","spatial planning","socio-economic analysis"]},{"id":"cer-000258","url":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/document/cer-000258","title":"7-e3681c85ab0a5935.pdf","publisher":{"name":"Centre for Environmental Rights","organization":"centre-for-environmental-rights"},"document_type":"report","language":"en","date_published":null,"source_url":"https://cer.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/7.pdf?x21779","generator":"Climate Insights Directory","generated_fields":["summary","key_insights","climate_tags","geography_discussed","analysis_type"],"summary":{"text":"This document consists of two primary components: an Environmental Management Framework (EMF) and a Spatial Development Framework (SDF) for the Dr Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality (PKISLM). The EMF establishes seven Environmental Management Zones (EMZs) to guide sustainable development by identifying preferred and undesirable land uses based on environmental sensitivities. The SDF provides broad spatial policy guidelines to manage regional growth, balancing economic development—particularly in agriculture, trade, and community services—with the conservation of critical grasslands and wetlands.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000258#summary","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},"key_insights":[{"text":"The EMF utilizes six environmental sensitivity maps to determine the EMZs: Biodiversity conservation, Wetland and hydrological conservation, Agricultural conservation, Urban/residential, Cultural and recreational/tourism resources, and Mining, industrial and commercial.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000258#insight-1","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"Agriculture is the largest economic sector contributing to the Gross Value Added (GVA) of the municipality, followed by community services and trade.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000258#insight-2","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"Wetlands occupy approximately 18.9% of the municipal area, totaling an estimated 124,734 hectares, with hill slope seepage wetlands being the most common type at 67%.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000258#insight-3","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The municipality's settlement hierarchy identifies Volksrust/Vukuzakhe as the 1st order urban node, Amersfoort/Ezamokuhle and Wakkerstroom/Esizameleni as 2nd order nodes, and Perdekop and Daggakraal/Singobile as 3rd order nodes.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000258#insight-4","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The document emphasizes the national importance of the Wakkerstroom wetland complex, describing it as one of the few peat land wetlands in South Africa and a critical 'water factory' for water security.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000258#insight-5","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"Development in areas with high biodiversity (protected, irreplaceable, or highly significant) requires a study by a professional ecologist, while sites adjacent to wetlands must determine the 1:100 year floodline.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000258#insight-6","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"A heritage impact assessment is mandatory for development or sub-division applications if the site exceeds 5 hectares, contains structures older than 60 years, or involves infrastructure exceeding 300 meters.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000258#insight-7","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The EMF implementation process involves a two-step consultation: first, determining the zone via the EMZ map to see if an activity is supported, and second, consulting general and specific guidelines to identify necessary further studies.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000258#insight-8","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The document identifies several challenges facing the agricultural community, including the slow rate of land reform, crime levels, and global competitiveness.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000258#insight-9","date_modified":"2026-08-17"}],"climate_tags":["land use planning","biodiversity conservation","wetland management","sustainable development","agricultural conservation"],"geography_discussed":["Gert Sibande District Municipality","Volksrust","Amersfoort","Wakkerstroom","Perdekop","Daggakraal"],"frame_perspective":[],"analysis_type":["Environmental Management Framework","Spatial Development Framework"]},{"id":"cer-000514","url":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/document/cer-000514","title":"APPELLANTS’ RESPONDING STATEMENT, IN TERMS OF REGULATION 74(8) OF THE MINERAL AND PETROLEUM RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS, 2004, TO ATHA-AFRICA VENTURES (PTY) LTD’S REPLYING SUBMISSION","publisher":{"name":"Centre for Environmental Rights","organization":"centre-for-environmental-rights"},"document_type":"statement","language":"en","date_published":null,"source_url":"https://cer.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Appellants-responding-statement-09-09-2019.pdf?x21779","generator":"Climate Insights Directory","generated_fields":["summary","key_insights","climate_tags","geography_discussed","analysis_type"],"summary":{"text":"This responding statement, submitted by the Centre for Environmental Rights on behalf of eight appellants, challenges the Department of Mineral Resources' (DMR) approval of the Environmental Management Programme (EMPR) for Atha-Africa Ventures (Pty) Ltd's proposed Yzermyn mine. The appellants argue that the approved EMPR authorizes an environmentally destructive discard dump, ignores extensive government conservation policies for the area, and contains woefully inadequate financial provisions for rehabilitation.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000514#summary","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},"key_insights":[{"text":"The appellants argue that the March 2014 EMPR is unlawful because it authorizes a discard dump that Atha's own groundwater specialist found would cause unmitigatable pollution. This design was specifically disallowed by environmental authorities in the NEMA application-procedure and the DWS in the NWA application-procedure.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000514#insight-1","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The proposed mine area is subject to extensive conservation classifications across three spheres of government. It is identified as an \"Irreplaceable Critical Biodiversity Area\" in the Mpumalanga Biodiversity Sector Plan, a \"sensitive natural area\" by the Dr Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality, and a \"Zone 1: Conservation\" area where mining is considered an \"undesirable type of activity\".","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000514#insight-2","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The mine area is located within the Enkangala Drakensberg Strategic Water Source Area (SWSA), which is part of the 8% of South Africa's land area providing 50% of its surface water run-off. The appellants note that 92% of South Africa's coalfields do not overlap with SWSAs, and 84.5% of the Utrecht coalfield specifically falls outside this SWSA, suggesting there is no justifiable reason to mine in this sensitive area.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000514#insight-3","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The area is further designated as a \"Category B\" area in the Mining and Biodiversity Guideline, meaning it has the \"Highest biodiversity importance\" and is at the \"Highest Risk for mining\". Such a classification indicates a very high likelihood of a \"fatal flaw\" for new mining projects.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000514#insight-4","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The appellants contend that Atha's financial provision of approximately R5.7 million is severely inadequate. A specialist review by GCS Water and Environmental Consultants found that Atha failed to provide for the treatment of post-closure decant and the rehabilitation or loss of affected wetlands, despite evidence that decant is likely to occur.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000514#insight-5","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The appellants assert that Atha failed to conduct proper due-diligence before purchasing the prospecting right in late 2011, as evidence suggests the previous holder (Bunengi Mining Services) was informed that the area's strategic environmental status would likely lead to the rejection of a mining right application.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-000514#insight-6","date_modified":"2026-08-17"}],"climate_tags":["energy transition","coal mining","biodiversity loss","water security","ecosystem services"],"geography_discussed":["Wakkerstroom","Gert Sibande District Municipality","Dr Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality","Mabola Protected Environment","Enkangala Drakensberg Strategic Water Source Area","Utrecht"],"frame_perspective":[],"analysis_type":["legal appeal","environmental impact assessment review"]},{"id":"cer-001219","url":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/document/cer-001219","title":"notice-issued-by-municipal-appeal-authority-58ce1fe61bc7b0eb.pdf","publisher":{"name":"Centre for Environmental Rights","organization":"centre-for-environmental-rights"},"document_type":"statement","language":"en","date_published":null,"source_url":"https://cer.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/NOTICE-ISSUED-BY-MUNICIPAL-APPEAL-AUTHORITY.pdf?x21779","generator":"Climate Insights Directory","generated_fields":["summary","key_insights","climate_tags","geography_discussed","analysis_type"],"summary":{"text":"A notice from the Municipal Appeal Authority of the Dr Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality regarding a land development appeal for Portion 1 of the farm Yzermyn 96 IT in Mpumalanga Province. The notice establishes a written appeal process involving the Centre for Environmental Rights, the Gert Sibande District Joint Municipal Planning Tribunal, and Atha-Africa Ventures (Pty) Ltd.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001219#summary","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},"key_insights":[{"text":"The Municipal Appeal Authority of the Dr Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality will preside over an appeal regarding a land development application for Portion 1 of the farm Yzermyn 96 IT, Mpumalanga Province, which was previously approved by the Gert Sibande District Joint Municipal Planning Tribunal.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001219#insight-1","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The appeal process will be conducted as a written appeal under Section 149 of the relevant by-law, with a specific schedule for submissions: the First Appellant (Centre for Environmental Rights) has 21 days to provide a written submission; the First and Second Respondents then have 21 days to respond; and the First Respondent must provide the written record of the Joint Municipal Planning Tribunal's meeting and decision within the initial 21-day period.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001219#insight-2","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The appeal is governed by the Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Act, 2013 (SPLUMA) and the 2016 municipal by-law applicable to the Chief Albert Luthuli, Dipaleseng, Dr Pixley Ka Isaka Seme, Lekwa, Mkhondo and Msukaligwa municipalities.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001219#insight-3","date_modified":"2026-08-17"}],"climate_tags":["land use"],"geography_discussed":["Gert Sibande District Municipality"],"frame_perspective":[],"analysis_type":["legal notice"]},{"id":"cer-001264","url":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/document/cer-001264","title":"pml1-007d50867763ea55.pdf","publisher":{"name":"Centre for Environmental Rights","organization":"centre-for-environmental-rights"},"document_type":"statement","language":"en","date_published":null,"source_url":"https://cer.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/PML1.pdf?x21779","generator":"Climate Insights Directory","generated_fields":["summary","key_insights","climate_tags","geography_discussed","analysis_type"],"summary":{"text":"A notice of appeal filed on 30 March 2015 by eight environmental organisations, represented by the Centre for Environmental Rights (CER), challenging the grant of mining right MP30/5/1/2/2/1/0069MR to Atha-Africa Ventures (Pty) Ltd (AAV). The appeal seeks to set aside and suspend the right for the proposed Yzermyn underground coal mine, arguing that the grant is unlawful and irrational given the area's extreme environmental sensitivity, its status as a protected environment, and the lack of required ministerial consent.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001264#summary","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},"key_insights":[{"text":"The Director-General of the Department of Mineral Resources (DMR) granted a mining right to Atha-Africa Ventures (Pty) Ltd (AAV) on 19 September 2014 for the Yzermyn underground coal mine, covering properties including Goedgevonden 95HT, Kromhoek 93HT, Yzermyn 96HT, and Zoetfontein 94 HT.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001264#insight-1","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The mining right was granted despite the properties falling within the Mabola Protected Environment, which was declared on 22 January 2014 to protect a \"unique, irreplaceable and threatened grassland area from coal mining.\"","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001264#insight-2","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The appeal asserts that the mining right was granted without the required written permission from the Minister of Environmental Affairs and the Minister of Mineral Resources, as mandated by section 48(1)(b) of the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act (NEMPAA).","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001264#insight-3","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA) rejected AAV's first final environmental impact assessment report (EIAR) on 16 May 2014, citing failures to propose alternative layouts and omissions regarding the status of listed ecosystems under NEMBA.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001264#insight-4","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The Department of Water Affairs (now Department of Water and Sanitation) expressly opposed the mining development in a letter dated 10 January 2014, citing concerns over the dewatering of wetlands and pans and the risk of acid mine drainage.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001264#insight-5","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA) objected to the mining right, noting that the area is classified as having \"irreplaceable\" biodiversity value in the Mpumalanga Biodiversity Conservation Plan of 2006 and is an endangered ecosystem.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001264#insight-6","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"A consultant report submitted as part of AAV's application recommended the area be declared a \"no go\" for mining due to impacts on biodiversity and water supply to surface water resources.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001264#insight-7","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The DMR's 2011/12 Annual Report and the Minister of Mineral Resources' May 2012 Budget Vote Speech stated that action had been taken to prohibit mining in environmentally sensitive areas of Wakkerstroom and Chrissiesmeer.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001264#insight-8","date_modified":"2026-08-17"},{"text":"The mining right was granted subject to conditions prohibiting surface mining or infrastructure in wetlands or sensitive environments, but the appellants argue these conditions are \"unlawful, vague and unenforceable.\"","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001264#insight-9","date_modified":"2026-08-17"}],"climate_tags":["energy transition","coal mining","biodiversity conservation","water security","protected areas"],"geography_discussed":["Wakkerstroom","Mpumalanga","Kwamandlangampisi Protected Environment","Tafelkop Nature Reserve","Gert Sibande District Municipality","Dr Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality"],"frame_perspective":[],"analysis_type":["legal appeal","environmental impact assessment review"]},{"id":"cer-001614","url":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/document/cer-001614","title":"dr-pixley-ka-isaka-seme-lm-final-sdf-2020-bf4ef95fc1e0ab14.pdf","publisher":{"name":"Centre for Environmental Rights","organization":"centre-for-environmental-rights"},"document_type":"report","language":"en","date_published":null,"source_url":"https://cer.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Dr-Pixley-ka-Isaka-Seme-LM-Final-SDF-2020.pdf?x21779","generator":"Climate Insights Directory","generated_fields":["summary","key_insights","climate_tags","geography_discussed","analysis_type"],"summary":{"text":"The Dr Pixley ka Isaka Seme Local Municipality's Spatial Development Framework (SDF) 2020 provides a long-term spatial vision to transform the region's apartheid-era layout into a sustainable, integrated environment. The plan identifies a nodal hierarchy with Volksrust and Vukuzakhe as primary nodes, and Amersfoort, Perdekop, and Wakkerstroom as secondary nodes, with Daggakraal as a rural node. Key strategies focus on densification to prevent urban sprawl, the protection of high-potential agricultural land, and the development of tourism, particularly in the Wakkerstroom wetland area. The framework also addresses critical infrastructure backlogs, projecting a need for 10,234 additional housing units by 2040 and significant increases in water and electricity demand. Environmental management is central, with specific guidelines to protect biodiversity and mitigate climate change through 'green infrastructure' and eco-friendly building materials.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001614#summary","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},"key_insights":[{"text":"The municipality's nodal hierarchy designates Volksrust and Vukuzakhe as primary nodes, Amersfoort, Perdekop, and Wakkerstroom as secondary nodes, and Daggakraal-Sinqobile as the rural node.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001614#insight-1","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"The N11 is identified as the primary mobility spine and a vital corridor for freight movement and connectivity between the municipality and other regions, including KwaZulu-Natal and Limpopo.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001614#insight-2","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Agriculture is the dominant economic sector, and the framework prioritizes the protection of high-potential agricultural land to ensure food security.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001614#insight-3","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"The municipality faces a significant housing backlog of 4,000 households, with the highest concentration in Daggakraal (1,500).","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001614#insight-4","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Population and household growth projections indicate a need for 10,234 additional housing units by 2040.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001614#insight-5","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Wakkerstroom is identified as a primary tourism focus due to its wetland conservation area, which is recognized as a national asset and a key ornithological site in Africa.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001614#insight-6","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"The framework emphasizes densification and infill development to prevent urban sprawl, identifying 1,057.83 hectares of available land within existing built-up areas.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001614#insight-7","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Environmental management guidelines mandate 100m buffer zones for rivers and streams outside the urban edge and 30m to 50m buffer zones for wetlands.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001614#insight-8","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"To mitigate climate change, the document proposes the use of eco-friendly building materials such as recycled steel, bamboo, sheep's wool, and cork.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001614#insight-9","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"The municipality is vulnerable to wildfires, flooding (particularly in the eastern parts), and droughts, requiring specific spatial planning responses like the use of indigenous water-wise vegetation for greening.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001614#insight-10","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Farmer Production Support Units (FPSUs) are earmarked for Volksrust, Perdekop, and Daggakraal to support livestock, grains, and vegetable value chains.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"cer-001614#insight-11","date_modified":"2026-10-23"}],"climate_tags":["climate change","green infrastructure","sustainable architecture","biodiversity conservation","Flood risk management","drought","renewable energy","solar energy","carbon sink"],"geography_discussed":["Gert Sibande District Municipality","Mpumalanga","Volksrust","Amersfoort","Perdekop","Wakkerstroom","Daggakraal","Vukuzakhe","Ezamokuhle","Siyazenzela","Esizameleni","Sinqobile"],"frame_perspective":[],"analysis_type":["spatial analysis","socio-economic analysis","biophysical analysis","vulnerability assessment","population projection"]}]}