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AfriForum met with Sappi Saiccor in Umkomaas to discuss concerns over Sappi’s waste products, coal ash and gypsum/fly ash mixture, the disposal thereof and the road ahead.

AfriForum expressed their concern about the coal ash, the heavy metals it contains and the effect it has on the environment, people and livestock in the area.

“Craig Daniel, SHEQ manager of Sappi Saiccor, assured the meeting that their coal ash and gypsum are not toxic and that the heavy metal levels contained in these waste products are within the permissible re-use limits. Daniel however confirmed that the pH levels in their coal ash are higher than 12 and that it is therefore not suitable for disposal at a landfill site,” says Chris Fourie, Provincial Coordinator for AfriForum in KwaZulu-Natal.

It was agreed that Laura Taylor, of Toti Conservancy, will accompany Craig Daniel, of Sappi Saiccor, to take new samples of the coal ash and gypsum/ fly ash mixture. These samples will be sent to a SANAS accredited laboratory to determine the heavy metal levels and also if it is safe to reuse. “Once the test results are available the relevant parties will meet again to plan the way forward,” Fourie added.

Sappi had previously had similar tests conducted by an independent third party, who found the ash to be suitable for reuse in the block-making process, but agreed to this mutual re-testing to reassure the environmental organisations that had expressed their concerns in this regard; and to allay any fears that may persist.

Sappi has confirmed that all their coal ash is delivered to NPC Cement in Port Shepstone and that they no longer provide coal ash to local block-makers.

“Despite our best intentions to continue disposing of our ash to local block-makers to support these small businesses, this well-intentioned strategy have failed as there has been non-compliance by these recipients. We understand that the socio-economic cost of this new arrangement will have a negative effect, but we have a commitment to act as responsible corporate citizens, sensitive to local needs and in compliance with environmental regulations,” said Peter Morris, General Manager of Sappi Saiccor.

“It is critical to our success to have a mutually respectful relationship with our surrounding communities and we welcome this cooperation”, Morris said.

AfriForum is happy with the outcome of the meeting, but will however be monitoring the situation closely to ensure that the health of its members and the environment are protected.

Issued by AfriForum & Sappi Saiccor