Global South Africa Environment

Bowmans houses an impressive environmental group with a prominent position in the market. The team frequently advises both local and international corporations on regulatory compliance and risk assessment regarding mining, waste management and contaminated sites. The group is sought after for its expertise in environmental considerations regarding M&A transactions and the construction of manufacturing and energy sites. It offers further expertise in niche areas of environmental law such as nature reserves, with experience advising on legislative changes.

Webber Wentzel operates a broad-ranging environmental law practice acting on deforestation, heritage resources, water use and waste management mandates, with particular recognition for the strength of its fisheries expertise. The group frequently undertakes environmental due diligence on M&A transactions for domestic and international commercial clients. The firm also maintains an active presence in the mining sector, advising on acquisitions, regulatory considerations and environmental impact. The team features on high-profile disputes in the environmental space, including public interest and precedent-setting cases.

Werksmans Attorneys maintains a well-established environmental group best known for the strength and breadth of its appellate practice. The team frequently represents clients on both sides in appeals against environmental authorisations, including approvals for developments and operations in the mining and retail sectors. Knowledgeable on water rights law, heritage sites, renewable energy developments and infrastructure projects, the firm is also active in assisting with environmental due diligence and regulations in relation to M&A deals.

Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr houses a well-regarded environmental practice group with a deep and varied client roster of high-profile domestic and international corporations from sectors including mining, manufacturing, energy and agriculture. The team is frequently instructed to carry out environmental due diligence regarding proposed M&A and other corporate transactions. The group additionally provides advice on a broad range of environmental compliance and licensing issues, such as water use, mining rights, waste management and pollution.

ENSafrica maintains a stellar reputation for its work in the mining sector, acting for clients on a range of contentious and non-contentious environmental law matters. The group's representative instructions include advising on conflicting mining rights, environmental contamination and operational expansion and set-up approvals. Additionally, the practice is knowledgeable on the government's independent power producer programme, water management and resource protection. The team has an active presence in waste management and heritage sites, including instances of community resistance to landfill developments and developments on or near to protected areas.

Johannesburg-based White & Case joins the rankings this year. The team has a respected environment and climate change practice. It advises clients on environmental due diligence and regulatory mandates, with further activity representing clients in contentious environment cases. The lawyers are well adept at handling administrative and enforcement proceedings.