Natural Resources, Renewable Energy and Policy Liaison

Policy Interventions

The Natural Resources Department promotes the implementation of better management practices and the Sustainable Sugarcane Farm Management System (SUSFARMS®) and seeks the support of key regulators. Ongoing monitoring and analysing of current and developing policies and legislation on natural resources, its use and management assists in advising growers and millers to be legally compliant, sustainable and globally competitive in its resource use and management.

Environmental Strategies

In recognition of the fact that it is operating within an industry that is dependent on natural resources appropriate environmental strategies for sustaining and managing natural resources are developed for the South African sugar industry. Strategic projects that could assist the industry in responding to environmental risks and interventions are expedited.

Stakeholder Engagement

Regular engagement with policymakers, environmental partners, academic and natural resource sector specialists:

• Assists in mobilising key stakeholders
• Keeping industry abreast of policy and strategic research developments
• Managing shared resources such as our scarce water resources
• Advocating industry positions in support of sustainable sugarcane and sugar production, and
• Facilitating an enabling regulatory environment for the industry

Industry Commitment

The industry is committed to diversifying its product offerings, similar to already transformed international sugar industries, in order to improve revenue, efficiency and competitiveness of the SA sugar industry. The Renewable Energy Development Department aims to provide support in attaining the desired energised future vision for the industry. This vision includes diversification of the industry into energy products, such as renewable electricity and biofuels, operating in a model of high government support and high value of sugarcane, with all available resources utilised.

Viable Energy Producer

Expediting and managing strategic renewable energy projects which can benefit the SA sugar industry in positioning itself as viable energy producer, and in gaining access to renewable energy markets has been a priority.

Stakeholder Support

Paramount is stimulating government and influential stakeholder support that would make commercial renewable energy production, electricity and bioethanol, feasible for the industry.

Industry Expert

Particular focus is given to monitoring and analysing developments in the agricultural and national/international
trade policy sector and serving as an industry expert in these fields.

Key Issues

Currently, key issues include the Agricultural Policy Action Plan (APAP), the Industrial Policy Action Plan (IPAP) and potential trade opportunities in the European Union. Policy changes are anticipated by the department mainly through intelligence gathering and stakeholder interaction most notably with the Department of Trade and Industry (the dti), and the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF).

Liaison Service

The department provides a liaison service for:

• SASA
• The South African sugar industry
• Key government departments, and
• Stakeholders

The department’s liaison service thereby raises the profile of the sugar industry and assists in maintaining the positive reputation of the industry.