https://www.webberwentzel.com//Pages/RSS-Feeds.aspx Webber Wentzel feed en-us Copyright 2020 Sun, 16 Aug 2026 18:02:45 +0200 Sample Code http://server/image.jpg https://www.webberwentzel.com//Pages/RSS-Feeds.aspx 42b86281-5373-4932-a5bc-fd5722fe8888 e2754760-f177-4b44-9b32-18788c8de585 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/outcomes-based-bonds-as-africas-most-powerful-tool-for-solving-the-water-crisis.aspx Across the African continent, water infrastructure is under increasing strain. The compounding pressures of accelerating urbanisation, decaying legacy systems, climate change and chronic underinvestment in public infrastructure over decades mean that both the public and private sectors must urgently mobilise towards solutions. 2026-05-17T22:00:00Z b64497c2-d204-4db6-9e74-1b2063a1e4cf https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/climate-change-assessment-reports-for-environmental-authorisations-when-judicial-precedent-outpaces-regulatory-clarity.aspx South African environmental law is undergoing a decisive shift in how climate change considerations are integrated into environmental authorisation (EA) decision-making. Courts are increasingly recognising climate change as a material consideration within the "need and desirability" assessment required under the National Environmental Management Act 107 of 1998 (NEMA), particularly regarding fossil-fuel developments. 2026-02-02T22:00:00Z 7a4b796f-d67e-44ea-a99d-1758f74eeac4 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/operators-of-historic-waste-disposal-facilities-called-upon-to-apply-for-a-waste-management-licence.aspx As with various environmental management aspects, waste management in South Africa has seen a number of regime changes. In 2009, when the National Environmental Management: Waste Act, 2008 (NEMWA) came into effect, it repealed, among others, section 20 of the Environment Conversation Act, 1989 (ECA). 2026-01-13T22:00:00Z 5fba1693-39d4-4713-a7a5-3ae2caaef1cf https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/south-africas-prudential-authority-issues-updated-climate-related-disclosure-guidance-for-banks-and-insurers.aspx Climate risk management requires ongoing capacity building and capability development, especially for banks and insurers that are highly susceptible to climate-related risks. The South African financial sector is particularly exposed to both financial and non-financial impacts as a result of exposure to climate-sensitive sectors. 2025-11-10T22:00:00Z 55dc0750-e340-450a-8fc5-a2d0e5bdc769 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/ai-represents-the-next-horizon-for-esg.aspx Artificial Intelligence (AI) is advancing at an unprecedented pace globally. The exceptional growth of data and the rapid adoption of AI technologies are reshaping industries. 2025-10-23T22:00:00Z 4bd3bdd3-dc47-4b1a-880a-499ceca4b214 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/update-on-the-eus-carbon-border-adjustment-mechanism.aspx The Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) (established by the CBAM Regulations) is a tool designed to place a carbon price on in-scope goods and precursors originating from a third country under Article 2 of the CBAM Regulations, read with Annex I, identified by their specific Combined Nomenclature codes. 2025-10-22T22:00:00Z ba9bdcfb-4b9f-4aea-9030-ccbaa03957b5 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/navigating-the-global-tide-how-african-businesses-can-thrive-under-mandatory-human-rights-due-diligence.aspx Since the unanimous endorsement of the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs) by the UN Human Rights Council in 2011, a new era of socially responsible and sustainable business has taken shape and continues to build momentum. 2025-08-20T22:00:00Z ec759fe1-e476-46ae-9df2-2ffebd5f5623 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/not-so-dry-issue-issuance-of-blue-bonds-to-help-address-south-africas-water-crisis.aspx Water scarcity is a growing global concern affecting the lives of millions. In South Africa, limited supplies of usable water, compounded by ageing national, provincial and municipal water infrastructure, continue to impact the daily lives of individuals and businesses across the country. 2025-08-14T22:00:00Z f86969da-be06-4d14-977e-68e5beb7f6db https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/part-1-esg-disclosure-requirements-for-financial-institutions-in-south-africa-a-2025-update.aspx Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations have become increasingly important for organisations globally, including financial institutions in South Africa. 2025-07-14T22:00:00Z edfab266-0cab-4aba-972a-33b5bd30feab https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/part-2-strengthening-south-africas-sustainable-finance-framework.aspx South Africa's National Treasury defines sustainable finance as financial models, services, products, markets and ethical practices that deliver resilience and long-term value in each economic, environmental, and social aspect, contributing to sustainable development goals and climate resilience. 2025-07-14T22:00:00Z 1cffc5e9-393d-49d3-9350-1192336b223d https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/key-themes-influencing-african-infrastructure-development-in-2025.aspx In 2025 Africa's infrastructure landscape is being impacted by recent changes in the world economy including a tightening infrastructure financing environment; rapid population growth, increasing urbanisation, technological advances and changes in the geo-political landscape. 2025-07-01T22:00:00Z a91529ad-ad03-4614-84e6-17188ca75d91 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/journey-to-net-zero-for-retailers.aspx The growing environmental impact of the retail industry has again made headlines in recent weeks, with France's senate approving a bill that directly addresses the environmental impact of the fast fashion industry. The bill proposes to regulate overproduction and overconsumption and is now under consideration by a joint committee of deputies and senators. 2025-06-25T22:00:00Z a9fb0145-074c-4014-88aa-22379aa7fdb1 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/king-v-and-the-future-of-corporate-governance-in-south-africa-advancing-esg-and-business-and-human-rights.aspx Corporate governance in South Africa has evolved significantly over the past three decades, with the King Code playing a central role in shaping responsible and sustainable business practices. 2025-05-15T22:00:00Z 24b731ca-a449-4e89-85bd-3bccdd48a594 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/investing-in-the-lobito-corridor-focus-on-esg-related-disputes.aspx A recent policy brief published by the United Nations examined challenges that may be encountered in developing the Corridor. The brief highlighted concerns about environmental impacts, the necessity of ensuring adequate local development, managing community conflict, promoting gender inclusivity, and protecting human rights. 2025-04-03T22:00:00Z decb0e93-348b-4f1e-81e7-555efbf21642 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/upcycling-for-a-greener-fashion-industry-balancing-sustainability-and-intellectual-property.aspx It is estimated by the United Nations Environment Programme that 20% of global water waste and 10% of global carbon emissions are produced by the fashion industry. It is predicted that by 2030, emissions solely from textile manufacturing, are projected to skyrocket by 60%. 2025-03-02T22:00:00Z 59029607-bff8-4a8d-bf5b-d243a9e37734 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/key-takeaways-from-mining-indaba-2025-balancing-critical-mineral-demand-and-human-rights-in-africa.aspx The Mining Indaba 2025 panel discussion we hosted on Sustainable Mining in Africa: Balancing Critical Mineral Demand and Human Rights brought together industry leaders to tackle one of the most pressing challenges of our time—how to meet the rising global demand for critical minerals while upholding human rights and ensuring meaningful community engagement. 2025-02-23T22:00:00Z f240b917-5f41-4b5c-b97e-090cb8aa0fda https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/reimagining-sustainable-development-in-african-mining-the-catalyst-approach.aspx In the complex landscape of African mining, particularly in South Africa, the concept of sustainable development has long been a point of contention. 2024-12-03T22:00:00Z 917018b5-957b-40e2-a173-4c43928c7e75 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/esg-trends-in-the-retail-sector.aspx As consumers become more discerning, environmental sustainability, social engagement and good governance will continue to demand the attention of all retail sector stakeholders. 2024-11-27T22:00:00Z a8b7e19e-7654-47e2-bba2-a7da539cfab8 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/botswana-a-new-era-of-governance-and-investment.aspx The political landscape in Botswana has shifted significantly with the recent electoral success of the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC), which ended 58 years of rule by the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP). 2024-11-20T22:00:00Z e4828791-7bff-4dc7-bbef-5fd2edfa0388 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/esg-frameworks-within-the-african-oil-and-gas-sector-benefit-operators-and-communities-if-seen-as-a-strategic-tool.aspx A strategic approach within the African oil and gas industry that considers Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) as a tool to enhance operational effectiveness at a community level can provide value to investors, natural resource companies and communities in project areas. 2024-11-06T22:00:00Z 8273f5a9-8a91-4939-abcc-f0a0ccc15d97 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/regulator-starts-to-crack-down-on-epr-free-riders.aspx Despite coming into force in 2021, many businesses seem to be unaware of the laws pertaining to Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) is cracking down and has issued 37 pre-compliance notices to non-compliant EPR producers in the Electrical & Electronic Equipment (E&EE) sector. 2024-10-24T22:00:00Z a01f55b1-3c17-40b0-835c-36444397e487 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/south-africa-esg-disputes-bulletin-september-2024.aspx The ESG Disputes Bulletin provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of environmental, social, and governance disputes in South Africa, offering a brief overview of the recent developments and their implications for businesses and stakeholders. 2024-09-11T22:00:00Z 1e7cfb7c-b53f-4464-a818-dcfec3d7910d https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/changes-on-the-horizon-for-esg-disclosures-in-south-africa.aspx Boards should be aware of changes that are on the horizon to South Africa's ESG reporting landscape, including the potential incorporation of the ISSB Standards. However, the mechanics still need to be fleshed out. 2024-07-17T22:00:00Z 2fb51234-2967-467b-91a8-153dbf191dcf https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/slps-seriously-lacking-promotion-sensibly-leading-to-problems.aspx In February 2024, the Annual Mining Indaba occurred in Cape Town South Africa, where the mining industry's technical brains, financial brawn and everything in between congregated. During the same time, the Alternative Mining Indaba, a summit hosted by the Mining Affected Communities United in Action took place. On the one hand, a gathering to deliberate investing in the African mining sector under the banner of "Embracing the power of positive disruption" and on the other, discussing participation and benefits flowing from the sector. 2024-06-02T22:00:00Z 5c2458d0-fe38-45e4-9e38-32d025918bd5 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/the-eu-corporate-sustainability-due-diligence-directive-an-african-perspective.aspx On 24 May 2024, the EU Council finally adopted the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), completing the legislative process and marking a significant development in global business practices, including for companies with operations in Africa. This groundbreaking law mandates both EU and non-EU companies within its scope to conduct rigorous due diligence across their supply chains to prevent human rights abuses and environmental harm and to adopt and implement compliant climate transition plans. 2024-05-29T22:00:00Z e0bfa61e-3486-47ad-bd28-2e13c2771598 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/tech-companies-must-stand-firm-global-lessons-for-south-africas-upcoming-election.aspx Artificial intelligence (AI) and technology have revolutionised many aspects of our lives, and elections are no exception. These tools can enhance the democratic process by improving access to information, voter registration, streamlining vote counting, and facilitating voter engagement, thereby securing greater protection of fundamental civil and political rights. However, the potential for misuse is equally significant, raising concerns about the integrity of electoral processes worldwide. 2024-05-27T22:00:00Z 38988fdb-d594-44ed-85f4-ea19eebbf3d0 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/south-africa-takes-bold-step-climate-change-bill-receives-parliamentary-nod-of-approval.aspx The South African Parliament unanimously passed the Climate Change Bill, which sets ambitious goals to achieve the country's low-carbon and climate-resilient future. 2024-05-14T22:00:00Z c9421e3f-c3c7-41bf-b17b-d02ae3f571b8 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/What-do-sectoral-emission-targets-mean-for-your-business.aspx To support the implementation of South Africa's Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) under the Paris Agreement, the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment published the Sectoral Emissions Target (SET) Report (Report) for public comment on 26 April 2024. 2024-05-13T22:00:00Z 0a3cd2e3-60dd-48e7-833c-f40ccaa2546d https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/the-digital-tightrope-walk-for-business-and-human-rights.aspx AI offers unprecedented opportunities for growth and innovation but also presents significant challenges and risks, especially concerning human rights and corporate governance. 2024-03-24T22:00:00Z d92aa088-07a5-4388-a238-9c0b7cdfa223 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/webber-wentzels-esg-legal-outlook-2024.aspx Webber Wentzel has collaborated with Linklaters to compile an ESG guide that covers key Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) trends as well as what is on the horizon for 2024 in various jurisdictions, including South Africa. 2024-03-11T22:00:00Z 95df5dcb-516a-4d22-9036-4e13c010a3a2 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/part-1-beyond-green-sustainable-finance-vs-green-loans.aspx Understanding the various elements in the ESG umbrella and the interplay between them, coupled with determining the right funding instrument and type of funding arrangement, appropriate metrics, reporting obligations and intervals is key and can require specialist insight from a number of advisors. 2024-03-03T22:00:00Z 57a9a4de-14f9-441c-a330-9de779928d0c https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/embracing-greener-arbitrations-a-journey-towards-sustainability.aspx Governments, businesses, and individuals worldwide have become increasingly concerned about the environmental impacts of their activities. In the legal sector, this has led to growing emphasis on the possibility of 'green arbitrations'. 2024-02-28T22:00:00Z 3e30d02b-83b7-4244-bc7e-15973c4c0571 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/private-equity-legal-developments-in-2024.aspx The world of private equity is ever-changing, presenting both challenges and opportunities. In this overview, our experts highlight and provide insights on recent legal developments in tax, corporate, B-BBEE, competition, financial regulatory, infrastructure, energy, and employment that are relevant to private equity. 2024-02-26T22:00:00Z 6b2ec920-8f86-4a9e-9ae6-73f829a05c01 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/reflecting-on-2023-trends-and-insights-in-business-and-human-rights-across-africa.aspx Business and Human Rights (BHR) is on the rise in Africa, prompting companies to navigate an increasingly complex landscape. Webber Wentzel experts, Pooja Dela and Paula-Ann Novotny take a retrospective look at the practical experiences gained over the past year and the emerging trends shaping the landscape of BHR across the African continent. 2024-02-19T22:00:00Z 29d0a745-ccf9-4f67-8111-b617fd3c9f82 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/south-africa-esg-disputes-bulletin.aspx The ESG Disputes Bulletin provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of environmental, social, and governance disputes in South Africa, offering a brief overview of the recent developments and their implications for businesses and stakeholders. 2024-02-12T22:00:00Z 9c43cf77-2854-4d4c-8dad-fb65723e3e78 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/the-role-of-technology-in-mining-safety-and-environmental-protection.aspx Modern mining practices routinely integrate technology into workflows to improve operational efficiencies. While competitiveness is a compelling reason for innovation, technology development and the use of artificial intelligence (AI) can also play a role in managing employee health, decreasing safety risks, and managing the environmental footprint of mining and extractive industries. 2024-02-11T22:00:00Z 586287c5-27d9-4918-878e-8b219e9138fa https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/does-pro-bono-count-as-a-social-duty-fulfilled-for-legal-firms.aspx Many large law firms have ESG practices that advise clients in a complex and growing area of law. 2024-02-06T22:00:00Z 73f61946-ae6a-4163-a8ef-f94501fa78d4 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/mining-companies-social-licences-to-operate-depend-on-their-ability-to-respect-human-rights.aspx Mining companies are well acquainted with the tenets that underpin the social licence to operate. But as the globalised world places more scrutiny on human rights violations. 2024-02-06T22:00:00Z 3a38ac95-aacb-418b-a93c-bd358cace2ae https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/balancing-environmental-and-social-responsibility-with-economic-growth-and-evolving-environmental-mining-regulations.aspx The mining industry is at the forefront of the sustainability debate, having been a major contributor to climate change, biodiversity loss, depletion of freshwater resources, and environmental degradation. 2024-02-05T22:00:00Z 3ba02ebb-441e-4938-a676-fd218dd7fd45 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/minings-green-shift-partnering-for-sustainable-transitions.aspx The Just Energy Transition (JET) and the global move towards net zero by 2050 require coordinated action by mining companies, governments, unions, and communities to ensure just transitions for mines and communities. 2024-02-05T22:00:00Z f867a6e4-787b-4acc-b118-ea1a78d9b771 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/proposed-amendments-in-the-national-water-amendment-bill-mining-company-directors-take-heat.aspx With the Mining Indaba fast approaching, mining companies should prioritise understanding the new director liability provision proposed in the National Water Amendment Bill (Water Bill), published on 17 November 2023. 2024-02-05T22:00:00Z dbb58cc3-c355-470a-b78a-383970804e8e https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/a-call-for-transformative-leadership.aspx The mining sector faces an increasing call for integrating Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles into its DNA. 2024-01-24T22:00:00Z 2bf83c4d-fe4a-42e7-be49-289b15c58736 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/taskforce-on-nature-related-financial-disclosures-reporting-evolving-nature-related-dependencies.aspx The Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) is upon us. In recognition of the reality that cash flow depends on the inherent ability of nature to provide ecosystem flows to the business, the TNFD has developed a set of disclosure recommendations and guidance for organisations to report and act on evolving nature-related dependencies, impacts, risks and opportunities. 2023-12-11T22:00:00Z d4a15f09-5a48-4985-932e-fd5d6d9fd84a https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/empowering-change-understanding-the-impact-of-nemlaa4-on-south-africas-environmental-landscape.aspx In the ever-evolving arena of environmental legislation, the National Environmental Management Amendment Act 2 of 2022 (NEMLAA4) emerges as a transformative force, poised to introduce a wholesale shift in South Africa’s environmental legislative landscape. 2023-12-05T22:00:00Z 0c602458-0a3b-4e4c-b0f0-362381de4bd6 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/cop28-south-africas-climate-change-regime-and-just-energy-transition-stocktake.aspx The first Global Stocktake is set to conclude at COP28 which allows the global community to measure the progress made since the signing of the Paris Agreement and to take collective action to accelerate mitigation, adaptation, and financing for further climate ambition. 2023-12-05T22:00:00Z 5ca47f04-35de-40b8-8f45-aaef69eae2fc https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/esg-dispute-resolution-in-africa-trends-and-strategies.aspx Global litigation and regulatory enforcement actions and threats related to Environmental, Social and Governance issues are on the rise, and Africa is no exception. 2023-11-20T22:00:00Z 824dae7f-a59c-410f-a96a-85c6017f5a4d https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/tax-deductibility-of-esg-related-expenses.aspx The sustainability of economies and in turn, society, largely hinges on how well we adopt Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG). Given that naturally this comes at some cost, the tax deductibility of related expenses comes into focus. 2023-11-20T22:00:00Z 3034cea7-a743-4557-b714-0516c9c1f528 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/the-important-g-in-esg-consequences-that-may-arise-from-failures-in-governance-in-the-tmt-sector.aspx Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) has transformed from a “nice to have” buzzword to a “must-have” demonstrable compliance requirement. 2023-11-08T22:00:00Z 8bbd0d86-ea61-4224-b697-86fbdafd421d https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/webber-wentzel-won-the-esg-initiative-of-the-year-award-at-the-2023-african-legal-awards.aspx Webber Wentzel won the ESG Initiative of the Year Award at the 2023 African Legal Awards for the pro bono advice it provides to the Minerals Council of South Africa's (MCSA) Partnership to tackle Gender-Based Violence in Mining Communities. 2023-10-26T22:00:00Z 7883ded3-adef-40a8-a53a-9f405bbf1224 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/proposed-amendments-to-the-eu-corporate-sustainability-due-diligence-directive-will-impact-more-sa-businesses.aspx South African businesses that fall within the supply chain of large companies in the European Union should gear up for Human Rights and Environmental Due Diligences in 2024, when the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive is expected to be adopted. 2023-10-25T22:00:00Z 91c9322f-2058-4538-b439-d33d3b9c4ea5 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/comprehensive-preparation-will-contain-the-fall-out-from-ransomware-attacks.aspx Ransomware attacks have been rising and it is companies that have a high level of preparedness who are weathering the storm, according to Wendy Tembedza and Karl Blom, partners in Webber Wentzel’s Telecommunications, Media and Technology team. 2023-10-24T22:00:00Z b63aa422-5355-4b29-a122-e0239372cf21 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/part-2-a-closer-look-at-the-competition-commissions-draft-public-interest-guidelines.aspx Assessing the effect of a transaction on employment in merger proceedings remains one of the key public interest considerations for the Competition Commission. 2023-10-22T22:00:00Z c2bbc543-df10-46fc-9de6-78ebb5ab5e48 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/alternative-dispute-resolution-ensuring-equal-access-to-justice-in-a-changing-legal-landscape.aspx Alternative dispute resolution (ADR) could be used to improve access to justice in South Africa for socially and economically disadvantaged groups. 2023-10-22T22:00:00Z 7f24c534-b77a-49b6-8ee2-2655c5417e1d https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/in-sickness-and-in-war-insurance-coverage-for-global-events.aspx Events such as the Covid pandemic and rising levels of cybercrime are encouraging insurers to revisit their policy wording to exclude certain events. 2023-10-17T22:00:00Z e47290cc-4248-446c-b511-a82913b5bb1d https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/esg-africa-conference-2023-key-takeaways-and-growing-impact.aspx On 4-5 October 2023, the ESG Africa Conference, 2023 took place at the Sandton Convention Centre and we were proud to support this conference for the second year consecutively, as a gold sponsor. 2023-10-16T22:00:00Z a9a4c1ff-2cea-4504-8ca5-c0265ea0c29b https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/a-closer-look-at-the-competition-commissions-draft-public-interest-guidelines.aspx The Competition Commission’s draft Public Interest Guidelines articulate the Commission’s likely approach in imposing public interest considerations in merger approvals. 2023-10-12T22:00:00Z a54b1987-2da3-4b54-9586-287556f28bf9 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/bbbee-commission-explains-its-investigation-process.aspx The B-BBEE Commission has published a notice explaining how a complaint about fronting may be lodged and how it will respond. 2023-10-11T22:00:00Z 4226def7-a82f-4376-a74d-08e291f17f4c https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/south-africas-upstream-petroleum-bill-could-do-better.aspx The Upstream Petroleum Resources Development Bill is taking too long to develop and appears to ignore many of the lessons that should have been learnt from South Africa’s mining sector legislation. 2023-10-09T22:00:00Z 4682ea1d-de39-4ec7-9a9f-c89e9cab82e1 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/unpacking-south-africas-draft-strategy-to-combat-food-losses-and-waste.aspx South Africa’s draft strategy to combat food losses and waste proposes interventions such as prevention, education, partnerships, regulation and monitoring. 2023-10-04T22:00:00Z b3d1a7e0-4bae-432d-9355-5da2c687c849 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/south-africas-just-transition-energy-framework-transforming-agribusiness-sustainably.aspx South Africa’s Just Transition Framework recognises the agricultural sector as a-risk in the green transition and sets out various principles to achieve it responsibly. 2023-10-03T22:00:00Z a9690be9-a687-40d1-a20c-d6404e0ba83d https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/national-health-insurance-bill-will-it-wipe-out-medical-insurance.aspx The NHI Bill does not contain any clarity on how South Africa’s large and complex medical schemes and insurance industry will be affected. 2023-10-02T22:00:00Z 0202a089-0469-4bec-9052-94952bdb7f9c https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/e-mobility-in-africa-the-winners-in-ev-innovation-have-unassailable-rights-to-technology.aspx One of the challenges facing fast-growing African economies is to provide more comprehensive transport networks without huge carbon emissions consequences. Between 1990 and 2022, CO₂ emissions from the global transport sector rose by 1.7% a year, faster than any other sector except industry, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA). 2023-10-01T22:00:00Z fd3ba23f-c5c4-4986-bc4f-2a77a4073641 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/competition-commissions-draft-public-interest-guidelines-for-mergers-published-for-public-comment.aspx Businesses have anxiously been seeking clarity on the application of public interest conditions in merger transactions. It is anticipated that the Competition Commission's draft public interest guidelines for mergers will provide some clarity on its approach to public interest considerations in the context of merger regulation. 2023-09-28T22:00:00Z 7cd32a25-4c0e-4c56-a406-b512c4ce8ae6 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/Africa-lays-the-groundwork-for-a-future-of-electric-vehicles.aspx Many South Africans who struggle every day to reach their places of work using minibus taxis or cars on congested motorways may find it hard to believe that an emobility revolution is about to happen. 2023-09-25T22:00:00Z a6cc305e-652e-4551-9db1-25fb7c82eca2 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/webber-wentzel-scoops-most-awards-at-the-2023-african-legal-awards.aspx The African Legal Awards took place at The Hilton on Friday, 1 September, where we were awarded several prestigious awards, making us the biggest winners of the evening. 2023-09-03T22:00:00Z ed26b163-2c66-4471-9c29-a87507709dd6 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/proposed-revisions-to-water-use-licensing-legislation-envisage-significant-reforms.aspx Amended procedural requirements for water use licence applications have been drafted and published. Some proposals are positive, although some will be onerous. 2023-08-17T22:00:00Z 9a6fc6d7-8b9e-4c4d-b6c3-cd683f76ba16 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/national-biodiversity-offset-guideline-finally-published.aspx The National Biodiversity Offset Guideline has been published. It specifically applies to applications for environmental authorisations but can be used by authorities making other decisions that may involve biodiversity offsetting. 2023-08-17T22:00:00Z 3f4a463f-e537-4173-bda4-8780f3286764 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/beyond-competition-the-prominent-role-of-public-interest-conditions-in-financial-sector-mergers.aspx The competition authorities are increasingly imposing public interest conditions when approving mergers, including on employment, and broadening ownership. 2023-08-17T22:00:00Z 301d6b62-6396-46b2-9eb7-ef2050ea8e5d https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/data-protection-and-cybersecurity-in-the-open-finance-space.aspx The FSCA has published a draft paper addressing the risks and possible remedies arising from data sharing in Open Finance, on which it is seeking public comment. 2023-08-17T22:00:00Z ccb28c0d-a88c-44d0-862d-099d7f4b66ab https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/taking-tech-to-tradition-mitigating-risk-in-the-evolving-financial-services-sector.aspx As technology distorts the boundaries between the physical and digital realms, adequate risk mitigation measures must be built into collaborations between banks and fintech companies. 2023-08-16T22:00:00Z 7c67c68c-aa45-4bba-8881-0a8cb4b60caa https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/changes-afoot-the-dtic-publishes-intention-to-introduce-two-companies-amendment-bills-in-parliament.aspx The DTIC has published a notice of intention to introduce two Companies Amendment Bills in Parliament. These Bills are expected to, among other things, provide for the disclosure of executive remuneration and extend the time bars applicable to applications for director delinquency and proceedings to recover loss due to director liability. 2023-08-15T22:00:00Z 593cde76-582c-40cb-b7d3-3028b766707e https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/prudential-authority-publishes-highly-anticipated-draft-guidance-notes-for-banks-and-insurers-on-climate-related-risks.aspx Mirroring other leading financial sector regulators across the globe, South Africa's Prudential Authority (PA) has signalled to banks and insurers that it is time for them to consider and integrate climate-related risks into their business practices, strategy, and management and disclose climate-related risks. 2023-08-13T22:00:00Z b354ed0a-3c9c-44de-8e9d-7b87fef4aa9a https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/game-changer-for-sustainability-disclosures-in-capital-markets.aspx The International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) has published inaugural standards that aim to promote consistency and comparability in sustainability reporting and disclosure. These standards will have knock-on effects for South African companies. 2023-07-13T22:00:00Z 39ce6d86-4022-4e47-90b7-bbd8a59d2d63 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/south-africa-esg-dispute-update.aspx Climate change considerations and environmental impacts relied on as grounds to refuse licences for development projects. 2023-07-13T22:00:00Z 29d2de07-ec7d-4244-bb9d-ad8af672f798 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/the-bulk-of-the-national-environmental-management-laws-amendment-act-2-of-2022-has-finally-come-into-force.aspx The National Environmental Management Laws Amendment Act, 2022 ("NEMLAA 4") has finally been proclaimed and came into effect on 30 June 2023. 2023-07-02T22:00:00Z e61ad7ab-fe5e-40c9-92e5-249c3469af81 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/webber-wentzel-embraces-generative-ai-as-part-of-its-ongoing-innovation-journey.aspx Webber Wentzel is taking the lead on responsible Artificial Intelligence (AI) investment within the African legal landscape as part of its continued commitment to deliver an exceptional client experience and foster an open, creative, and entrepreneurial culture. 2023-06-22T22:00:00Z 78fc0955-40ec-4c79-8ddc-2ef23ee421ce https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/webber-wentzel-shortlisted-in-19-african-legal-awards-categories.aspx Webber Wentzel is proud to have been shortlisted in 19 categories in the 2023 African Legal Awards. Being nominated across so many critical categories is a real endorsement of Webber Wentzel's standing in the African legal market. 2023-06-21T22:00:00Z 75738332-c2c8-432d-afd0-a30f5edea53c https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/private-equity-firms-rise-above-global-economic-stress.aspx PE is vital to the Southern African economy for a number of reasons. It drives job creation, acts as a catalyst for genuine economic transformation and attracts foreign investment. 2023-05-28T22:00:00Z 8368acf1-fa35-4e6a-a9c8-1cbec200630b https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/esg-and-the-african-continental-free-trade-agreement.aspx The forward momentum of ESG principles, which permeate every aspect of global economic activity, is also evident in the first strides the AfCFTA has taken. 2023-04-16T22:00:00Z b7fc93fd-e552-4ba8-a041-ed0950415e82 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/south-africa-esg-disputes-update.aspx Gas' role in South Africa's just energy transition questioned through challenges to environmental authorisations for gas-to-power plant project and gas to power via powership project via administrative law mechanisms. 2023-04-02T22:00:00Z 1cad19ec-4139-4492-8103-f46868aa1f46 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/making-esg-work-for-the-agricultural-sector.aspx Agribusinesses can maximise opportunities, including creating significant revenue generation to compliment the sector's existing sources of revenue, and promote resilience by adopting ESG strategies. 2023-03-29T22:00:00Z 20d94c53-3f70-4fd1-abd7-8ddbfd282849 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/23-legal-developments-to-track-in-2023.aspx Various legal developments that will impact South African business operations are expected to unfold in 2023, particularly in the fields of tax, ESG, financial regulation and economic transformation. 2023-03-16T22:00:00Z feb260b3-7cd2-46fe-b594-58a4f99bfbee https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/webber-wentzel-esg-legal-outlook-2023.aspx Webber Wentzel has collaborated with Linklaters to compile an ESG guide that covers key ESG trends as well as what is on the horizon for 2023 in various jurisdictions, including South Africa. 2023-03-09T22:00:00Z 98241703-6c77-4e2d-bf76-d347a27ccc96 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/south-africa-has-been-grey-listed-what-are-the-implications-for-the-country-going-forward.aspx South Africa’s greylisting by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has significant implications for its economic growth and global competitiveness, but moves are already being taken to satisfy the FATF 2023-02-23T22:00:00Z 39535207-ec57-455e-bf57-f0c45f4a67f9 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/strengthening-the-g-in-esg-fica-import-and-export-and-the-effect-on-mines.aspx Government has introduced new or amended regulations relating to FICA and the import and export of certain minerals or other items, which may be relevant to different mining companies. 2023-02-07T22:00:00Z 289f1228-8fb8-49be-9f32-7ab763b21d14 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/business-and-human-rights-increased-scrutiny-for-mining-companies.aspx Increasingly, mining companies will have to satisfy lenders that they meet high ESG standards, particularly on business and human rights. 2023-02-07T22:00:00Z 831239ad-e660-4fad-835c-821c25f9f80d https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/minister-mantashe-looks-to-mining-investors-to-solve-load-shedding-logistics-problems-facing-sa.aspx The keynote welcome speech by Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy, Gwede Mantashe, at Mining Indaba 2023 today was a straightforward acknowledgement of some of the current issues facing the mining industry. 2023-02-07T22:00:00Z 7f3b38b3-4829-43a8-bbb1-acbd72f9572e https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/webber-wentzel-recognised-as-2022-south-africa-law-firm-of-the-year-by-top-ranked-legal.aspx Webber Wentzel has been awarded the 2022 South Africa Law Firm of the Year in the EMEA Awards by Top Ranked Legal. 2022-12-20T22:00:00Z c094e5d2-28e5-45ce-837b-e08388bab223 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/africa-needs-to-get-in-gear-to-host-global-motor-racing.aspx The Formula E event in Cape Town in 2023, and perhaps future Formula 1 events in South Africa, would stimulate infrastructure development, but also require coordination among a broad group of stakeholders. 2022-12-06T22:00:00Z 8c1c99ee-e808-48be-b803-a5dea9d7761d https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/awareness-to-accountability-unpacking-the-test-for-unwanted-conduct-as-an-element-of-sexual-harassment.aspx 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is an international campaign that raises awareness and mobilises advocacy to combat violence against women and children. 2022-12-06T22:00:00Z 17d9c089-5107-44f5-b8be-833aacba40be https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/esg-focused-procurement-in-the-hospitality-and-leisure-sector.aspx ESG compliance offers the hospitality and leisure sector in South Africa much-needed, low-cost credentials as an additional competitive advantage, in a tight market. 2022-11-24T22:00:00Z 47b93bb8-e2f4-441c-9616-1b17d4ef41c8 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/greenwashing-and-the-role-of-the-advertising-regulatory-board-in-south-africa.aspx South Africa’s Advertising Regulatory Board and the Consumer Protection Act enable consumers to lodge complaints when they suspect an advertiser or marketer of greenwashing. 2022-11-20T22:00:00Z ce3fa803-3b62-4c3c-89eb-0125fa639938 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/embracing-neurodiversity-beyond-disability.aspx Disability Rights Awareness Month runs from 3 November to 3 December 2022 and is focussed on “empowering persons with disabilities through resourceful, sustainable and safe environments”, while recognising that not all disabilities are visible. 2022-11-17T22:00:00Z fc7ddfc3-1aab-4c2d-8ad5-105cc795d1a1 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/ster-kinekor-successfully-exits-business-rescue-with-webber-wentzel-at-its-side.aspx Webber Wentzel assisted and advised Ernst & Young's Stefan Smyth (business rescue practitioner) on a ZAR 250 million business rescue matter involving the refinancing and restructuring of Ster Kinekor's debt and the 100% purchasing of the Ster Kinekor shares by Blantyre Capital Limited and Greenpoint Specialised Lending. 2022-11-14T22:00:00Z cadd687f-9598-4f62-9fb4-1ce2d7a8f0cb https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/webber-wentzel-m-and-a-master-series-esg-and-governance-disclosure-reporting-and-beyond.aspx To launch its M&A Master series, Webber Wentzel hosted a hybrid event on Tuesday, 13 September 2022, targeted at clients involved and interested in the mergers and acquisitions landscape on the African continent. The overarching theme for this session was ESG and Governance: Disclosure reporting and beyond. 2022-11-13T22:00:00Z a648cd1a-9ba9-4212-99c6-8f663fd81343 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/mining-companies-need-to-adapt-to-a-greener-economy-and-more-stringent-transformation-targets.aspx Mining companies need to be on the alert as the legal and regulatory framework in which they operate is constantly changing and evolving around issues such as decarbonisation, exploration, resettlement, and employment equity. 2022-10-31T22:00:00Z 25172a9f-88cb-4a34-ab0d-95a351ec8ec3 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/violence-and-intimidation-associated-with-industrial-action-using-picketing-rule-and-code-on-harasment-to-migitate-violence.aspx Employers trying to tackle violence related to industrial action have traditionally reacted with court proceedings and disciplinary action once such action has taken place. 2022-10-26T22:00:00Z 1cdcc43c-3041-40dd-b6d1-da5690bb91aa https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/are-brps-and-liquidators-overlooking-potential-esg-benefits-and-ignoring-possible-risks.aspx BRPs in South Africa should incorporate ESG considerations into their business plans to attract more investors and comply with the SA’s climate change commitments. 2022-10-25T22:00:00Z 92cef1ca-7ced-4fef-bc43-08103329edbf https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/amended-ee-bill-tightens-up-on-transformation-targets.aspx Employers will face consequences if the Employment Equity Amendment Bill is implemented, specifically that hard-coded sector targets will be enforced, together with fines for non-compliance. 2022-10-25T22:00:00Z aa60d8cd-b107-46c6-b58e-0705729e5c45 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/webber-wentzel-won-the-african-legal-awards-for-african-law-firm-of-the-year.aspx Webber Wentzel has been named African Law Firm of the Year (Mid-Large Sized Practice) at the 2022 African Legal Awards. 2022-10-23T22:00:00Z d61e6fb1-5d1b-4604-a281-3f57d878b1fc https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/recent-esg-related-developments-in-the-maritime-sector.aspx New regulations affecting South Africa’s maritime sector seek to raise standards relating to the environment, health and safety and governance. 2022-10-20T22:00:00Z b7292f40-765a-46f1-bd41-bcce0a002106 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/webber-wentzel-wins-legal-adviser-emerging-markets-title-at-the-2022-ijglobal-esg-awards.aspx Webber Wentzel has been awarded the Legal Adviser - Emerging Markets title at the 2022 IJGlobal ESG Awards which took place on 19 October 2022 in London. 2022-10-19T22:00:00Z e1637856-1fbc-4fe0-ba8f-3222fcd7b1e6 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/employers-role-in-eradicating-gender-based-violence-legally-required-or-simply-virtuous.aspx The National Council on Gender Based Violence and Femicide draft Bill, published on 30 September 2022 prompts employers to reflect on their role in dealing with gender-based violence. 2022-10-13T22:00:00Z be9c12e6-6c0f-4862-a9db-5664dbe7afcf https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/african-union-climate-change-and-resilient-development-strategy-and-action-plan.aspx The AU CC Strategy was developed as a 10-year strategic planning document aimed at addressing the impacts and encumbrances of climate change which hamper Africa’s integration and development and as part of a proactive, collective effort to realise Agenda 2063. 2022-10-06T22:00:00Z 696d2c01-0f8a-4f8b-84ea-50d3e667b771 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/gbv-bill-establishing-the-national-council-on-gbv-and-femicide-to-be-introduced-to-parliament.aspx On 30 September 2022, the Minister of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities published the National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Bill (Bill). 2022-10-04T22:00:00Z 3bc894e9-1224-4d7c-bf47-b74b13a52198 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/draft-white-Paper-conservation-and-sustainable-use-of-south-africa-biodiversity.aspx “The White Paper is a broad policy document. Once it is signed into law, government will use it to amend existing legislation and/or introduce new legislation.” 2022-09-27T22:00:00Z 41bb0eeb-ff23-4130-b1c5-f093d4f555ec https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/webber-wentzel-won-the-african-legal-awards-environment-energy-natural-resources-team-of-the-year.aspx Webber Wentzel won Environment, Energy & Natural Resources Team of the Year at the African Legal Awards for advising on the establishment of the ARCH ARPF Feeder Partnership. 2022-09-18T22:00:00Z 75beff9a-c1d2-4c5a-a50e-369437b8f3b1 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/seminar-invitation-webber-wentzel-employment-and-employee-benefits.aspx Please join us for our upcoming seminar where the experts from our Employment and Employee Benefits Group will present their insights linking key ESG trends to the current employment landscape. 2022-09-13T22:00:00Z 44a0974d-a659-4a79-8ddc-0c1b732e8cf3 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/regulators-take-steps-to-encourage-esg-in-the-financial-services-industry.aspx The FSCA is taking a number of steps, beyond introducing amendments to Regulation 28, to encourage pension funds to invest in green and other ESG investments. 2022-09-11T22:00:00Z 0e1b0f59-1425-46a3-82d4-c935dc7372ae https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/webber-wentzel-won-the-african-legal-awards-esg-initiative-of-the-year-for-advising-on-the-terragrn.aspx Webber Wentzel has partnered with TERRAGRN which has a goal of creating sustainable, biodiversity-compliant forests in various African countries to deliver net-zero emissions; socio-economic development through job creation; and create more women entrepreneurs. 2022-09-11T22:00:00Z 0b202fb8-dc2f-4fe4-9e2e-d6df70f97759 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/esg-disclosure-framework-in-the-pipeline-for-south-african-financial-services-companies.aspx The South African Reserve Bank will shortly issue a draft sketching an ESG disclosure framework for the financial services organisations that it supervises. 2022-09-11T22:00:00Z 8f88a3d9-4503-4c8c-a25f-69f283c0619e https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/amendments-proposed-to-the-100mw-licensing-exemption-and-registration-requirements-in-the-electricity-regulation-act-2006.aspx Proposed amendments to the Electricity Regulation Act will amend the licensing exemption and registration requirements for generating, trading, transmitting, and distributing electricity. 2022-09-11T22:00:00Z 318bcaea-a125-4804-9766-adf084fb7305 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/whistleblowing-in-africa.aspx The Webber Wentzel Dispute Resolution Team is proud to present this whistleblowing cross-jurisdictional guide. It focuses on 9 key questions across 8 African jurisdictions. 2022-09-07T22:00:00Z a4728a14-8ab5-45df-a3c4-28b9614ae81c https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/banking-on-climate-change-the-rise-of-climate-finance-related-disputes.aspx Following ESG trends, South Africa’s banking sector is gearing up to provide sustainable financing. This shift into a new era of clean energy will give rise to complex ESG related disputes, and stakeholders should consider including an arbitration clause in underlying contracts to mitigate their risks. 2022-09-05T22:00:00Z ba9a04dd-d07a-4c7a-b316-3a914411f40b https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/webber-wentzel-biggest-winner-at-the-african-legal-awards.aspx Webber Wentzel has been named African Law Firm of the Year (Mid-Large Sized Practice) at the 2022 African Legal Awards on Friday, 2 September 2022. 2022-09-04T22:00:00Z 14a05cff-39e5-40e8-9e04-86af0d73300c https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/m-and-a-master-series-esg-and-governance-disclosure-reporting-and-beyond.aspx We are curating a M&A Master Series for those involved and interested in the mergers and acquisitions landscape on the African continent. In this series, our legal and industry experts will discuss important M&A issues for both public and private entities. 2022-09-04T22:00:00Z 55f212d0-0620-40a4-aa81-45f1e4fc4a46 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/a-look-to-the-future-ligitation-risks-faced-by-the-financial-sector-in-relation-to-esg-statements.aspx With increasing public and regulatory scrutiny of claims by companies about their ESG achievements, it is essential that these are accurate, well-founded and backed up with data. 2022-08-30T22:00:00Z 7323994f-d3f9-400e-85e1-04ba633711e5 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/south-africa-green-finance-taxonomy-project.aspx Following a two-year consultation and development process, South Africa’s first national Green Finance Taxonomy was launched on 1 April 2022 by the Taxonomy Working Group as part of South Africa’s Sustainable Finance Initiative. 2022-08-29T22:00:00Z 51c70fc4-2b55-41eb-a5cb-72d901060169 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/esg-reporting-and-disclosure-in-a-new-era-for-companies.aspx Few businesses in the world can be ignorant of the shift in business norms to a much more conscious world, where stakeholders are increasingly interested in the non-financial parameters that affect a business’s operations. 2022-08-29T22:00:00Z ab276a90-afb3-4d2f-a983-0f267e6fce50 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/esg-achieving-net-zero-and-the-role-of-carbon-tax.aspx A reduction in carbon emissions is integral to South Africa's global commitment to achieve net zero. The South African government strategically introduced carbon tax to combat global warming by encouraging a low carbon economy. 2022-08-17T22:00:00Z 19898453-991c-4adc-bd99-f51911b2e471 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/esg-matters-need-a-coordinated-and-practical-approach.aspx The growing importance of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) matters to stakeholders necessitates a co-ordinated approach to managing and reporting these issues to the board, which could justify appointing a dedicated ESG Manager. 2022-08-11T22:00:00Z 17d67f67-1fb1-4d1e-83f2-9ddf8087cb80 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/final-draft-of-the-replacement-nema-financial-provisioning-regulations-published.aspx The fourth draft of the replacement FP regulations is out, presenting the final opportunity to comment on the replacement regulations to be published ahead of the September 2023 deadline for compliance. 2022-07-27T22:00:00Z 271b18f4-322e-468f-a8b2-67ab39a57e85 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/linking-the-s-in-esg-to-employment-tax-incentives.aspx While companies need to focus on their environmental and governance principles to meet their ESG requirements, they should not ignore the integral role of non-financial factors, which make up the "S" in ESG. 2022-07-26T22:00:00Z 8fa404c1-6d08-4caa-9571-71b5b1cd2393 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/community-engagement-the-recipe-for-success.aspx A recent judgment of the High Court may give mining companies some guidance on best practice during their necessary consultations with interested and affected parties. 2022-07-19T22:00:00Z 5c71402e-a43e-4558-af5e-90671aca7fb4 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/department-of-employment-and-labour-adopts-a-call-to-action-programme-to-eliminate-child-labour-in-the-agricultural-sector.aspx Child labour in the agricultural sector threatens ESG compliance and exposes employers to possible fines or imprisonment in terms of the Basic Conditions of Employment Act as well as the Child Care Act. 2022-07-18T22:00:00Z 7f688cfc-f787-4121-93e4-354eeeb86e91 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/the-green-the-bad-and-the-ugly-the-risks-of-greenwashing.aspx Greenwashing is the act of misleading the public about an organisation's environmental or sustainability practices or deceiving the public about how eco- (and ESG-) friendly a product or practice is 2022-07-18T22:00:00Z 43c424c0-69d9-4d2b-a87d-6cda4f2d890a https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/redressing-mine-closure-liability-through-the-esg-lens-emerging-esg-risks.aspx Mining companies are under increased pressure from regulators, investors and communities to manage social and environmental risks arising from mine closure and rehabilitation. 2022-07-13T22:00:00Z 71f65f90-fc18-4e27-8805-1ba9f4e351cc https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/nemla-iv-will-tighten-rectification-processes.aspx The proposed amendments to the rectification application process are intended to tighten the risk associated with these applications and deter abuse. 2022-06-30T22:00:00Z acb87317-83fc-4a85-9d10-a2d6aeba5cba https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/nemla-iv-sets-the-scene-for-major-changes-to-financial-provisioning-laws.aspx The recently published NEMLA Act sets out the general principles, as well as mining-specific principles, on making financial provision for rehabilitation and closure of operations – which will soon come into force. 2022-06-28T22:00:00Z acba9812-3b2a-4d8c-aa86-9849dc59c35d https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/big-esg-recognition-for-webber-wentzel.aspx Webber Wentzel has in the same week been awarded the Environmental Finance - ESG research of the year, Africa 2022 award and also shortlisted by African Legal Awards for ESG Initiative of the Year (an award the firm won last year as well). 2022-06-28T22:00:00Z 8892cd1f-2845-49c0-9e5b-8b0f87b73a26 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/key-employer-considerations-in-the-mine-health-and-safety-act-amendment-bill.aspx Proposed amendments to the Mine Health and Safety Act place greater obligations on employers, which is to be welcomed in some respects but other amendments are problematic and may be open to legal challenge. 2022-06-27T22:00:00Z 73babd70-393d-45c4-8aa5-4d25f228a184 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/greater-esg-compliance-will-help-to-address-cost-and-reputational-problems-in-building-contracts.aspx ESG compliance is essential to address some of the environmental, social and governance problems that have beset the South African construction industry in recent years. 2022-05-23T22:00:00Z ee7f1b8c-bedf-4ab4-a6c5-422198e075ce https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/new-artisanal-and-small-scale-mining-and-mine-community-resettlement-guidelines-progress-but-grey-areas-remain.aspx The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy has published two key policy documents dealing with artisanal and small-scale mining and resettlement as a result of mining. 2022-04-25T22:00:00Z abc3c011-0626-4366-a57d-2170abdf3f12 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/national-treasury-launches-the-green-finance-taxonomy-paper.aspx National Treasury has launched South Africa’s first Green Finance Taxonomy, which will help investors and financial institutions make more informed decisions on “green” projects. 2022-04-04T22:00:00Z 889e84d5-6bec-4c0e-a0a7-a8f7d2dc3c10 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/esg-in-the-mining-industry-whats-missing.aspx A recent analysis of ESG reports by nine mining companies highlighted strengths and weaknesses in how they are tackling these objectives 2022-03-29T22:00:00Z b80bc016-a311-4444-9adc-e583d258df90 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/22-legal-developments-for-businesses-to-monitor-in-2022.aspx We have collated a snapshot of key themes to track in 2022 and of 22 legal developments for the year which you will need to keep a tab on. In 2022, various legal developments are expected to have an impact on businesses, particularly in the fields of liability, ESG, digital and economic transformation. 2022-03-22T22:00:00Z 7a557960-af51-4f21-8bfd-e4659e79e85f https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/eu-proposed-directive-for-corporate-sustainability-due-diligence-unpacking-the-impact-for-sa-businesses.aspx The European Union (EU) published a proposed Directive on Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence ahead of sustainability becoming a legislated feature in the global economy. This EU proposal may affect South African businesses. 2022-03-14T22:00:00Z cb68b679-710a-49ab-9b74-cd4bc7068845 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/tmt-webinar-q-and-a.aspx Questions and answers from the Telecommunication, Media & Technology (TMT) webinar: The Digital Economy in 2022 - Trends and Regulatory Developments that involved Artificial Intelligence​​, Content moderation and platform liability, and ESG as topics of discussion. 2022-03-08T22:00:00Z a74858ee-215f-48e1-9d13-1f0582eca217 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/esg-its-not-just-business-its-personal.aspx A greater emphasis is being placed on the human rights obligations of businesses than before, with likely moves towards binding treaties. 2022-03-07T22:00:00Z d64866f5-0713-4ba4-a396-05b27f236c18 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/significant-shift-in-environmental-landscape-anticipated-as-NEMLAA4-enters-home-stretch.aspx The long-awaited NEMLAA4 has been sent to the President for signature concluding a 6-year long parliamentary process. NEMLAA4 once signed will introduce higher environmental compliance standards across the board, as well as stricter penalties for environmental transgressions. 2022-03-06T22:00:00Z 0980ee4d-dfea-4ffd-beda-e117a607befb https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/future-trends-in-green-financing.aspx Green financing is likely to evolve over the next few years, with financial institutions increasingly requiring more accurate measurements of borrowers’ achievements against targets. 2022-02-22T22:00:00Z ef43138f-9832-41a3-9e1d-fe2e4e97dea8 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/webber-wentzel-recognised-in-chambers-global-2022.aspx Earlier this year, Webber Wentzel was awarded South Africa Law Firm of the Year at the Chambers Africa Awards 2022. Yesterday, Chambers Global released its 2022 results, ranking law firm practices and lawyers according to their client service, commercial vision, business understanding, diligence and value for money. 2022-02-17T22:00:00Z e9069c69-e6c9-4ecd-a184-441fa64f1b6c https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/a-cross-jurisdictional-assessment-of-the-development-of-climate-change-related-legislation-across-africa.aspx This cross-jurisdictional assessment unpacks 8 key questions across 9 African jurisdictions, namely: Botswana, Kenya, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe. 2022-02-08T22:00:00Z 7c473d05-0f5d-4b5e-8541-5f0604807eaa https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/directors-face-potential-liability-for-climate-change-risks.aspx Directors face potential liability if they fail to carry out their fiduciary duties to curb climate change risks and do not make complete disclosures about climate-related risks. 2022-02-07T22:00:00Z 25a7b8a3-d561-4d46-bd69-82650b29f72b https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/esg-global-legal-outlook-for-2022.aspx 2022 will provide a practical demonstration of the appetite for ESG-led change that governments, major corporates and financial institutions all have, and how far this will feed into smaller businesses and everyday life. 2022-02-03T22:00:00Z e9fedbf3-4638-4794-96f4-16be1605b881 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/south-africas-climate-change-targets.aspx All countries will need to adopt stricter legislation to control greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to limit global temperature rise to 1,5 degrees Celsius and reach the targeted net-zero by 2050. 2022-01-24T22:00:00Z 5f09c8ca-52d2-4234-a4c8-c2f9211cf512 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/south-african-law-year-to-come-2022-and-year-in-review-2021.aspx Webber Wentzel has contributed to the Linklaters' global guide series - Year to Come 2022 and Year in Review 2021. The series brings together analysis, thinking and highlights from lawyers around the world across multiple jurisdictions, in the form of topic-specific and jurisdictional guides. 2022-01-17T22:00:00Z c5a32306-8fe1-4a39-bfbe-2b310ee7156f https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/energy-insights-report.aspx To mark the culmination of the most recent topic of focus between Africa Legal and Webber Wentzel, we are proud to present a downloadable compilation of content relevant to this most vital of African sectors – energy. 2021-12-09T22:00:00Z 9dc6319f-18f7-42e1-8c1e-185097c92c19 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/post-cop26-reflections-more-programmes-policies-and-resources-for-mitigation-and-adaptation.aspx Various Outcome Statements were published after the two-week COP 26 conference. They make it clear that both mitigation and adaptation efforts need to intensify, in global partnership 2021-11-16T22:00:00Z 22e7f03d-d151-405e-9167-b8cb0a6f6920 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/private-sector-involvement-is-key-for-sustainable-cities-and-towns.aspx Creating sustainable and environmentally-friendly cities is a central feature of climate change adaptation, embracing themes such as AI, IP law and post-mining economies 2021-11-10T22:00:00Z a505a49a-ca46-4377-8bcf-e80218245186 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/esg-looms-larger-in-dealmaking.aspx For many years, shareholders and funders have expected that the companies in which they invest should demonstrate Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) responsibility. But more recently, high standards of corporate behavior in actively promoting and pursuing ESG goals have started to become integral to dealmaking. 2021-11-08T22:00:00Z df56837b-eda7-4aca-b2e3-f6dbdcf5df8c https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/esg-related-litigation-looms-for-mining-oil-and-gas-companies.aspx In the near future, companies operating in the mining, oil and gas sectors are likely to feel the brunt of the increasing prominence of ESG issues and the recalibration of societal norms towards sustainability. 2021-11-07T22:00:00Z 563158f5-11f8-4251-b2f6-1b42d4371f59 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/technology-is-the-key-to-unlocking-a-green-future.aspx According to several reports, the Southern Africa interior is warming at twice the global rate. Significant changes to long-term weather patterns, agriculture and food security, water availability and biodiversity are likely and their effects disastrous. Existing and new technologies will be critical to mitigate and manage the damage of global warming. 2021-11-04T22:00:00Z 0315c231-a7f5-432c-bac6-3bbc061cee7b https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/prioritising-the-s-in-esg-can-lessen-disputes-between-mining-companies-and-adjacent-communities.aspx Accentuating the 'S' in Environmental, Social and Governance can help mining companies deliver better business outcomes, lessen costly disputes and help rebuild stakeholder trust. 2021-11-03T22:00:00Z 77ef4696-4858-4c84-809d-555d5ff2d335 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/south-africas-energy-landscape-evolves-partly-driven-by-climate-change-goals.aspx Legislative reforms are making South Africa’s energy sector greener and more competitive, which will encourage economic growth and help the country meet its climate change commitments 2021-10-20T22:00:00Z ad95685e-8a2e-4885-ab55-af4a7846b0ee https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/south-africa-innovates-in-sustainable-finance-for-biodiversity-protection.aspx South Africa was the first country in the world to grant the tax concession in Section 37D of the Income Tax Act to protect biodiversity, which provides a sustainable financing solution 2021-10-18T22:00:00Z 46677205-314b-4c09-9ac1-7fe259540f99 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/cop26-what-it-means-for-south-africa-and-africa.aspx This series of articles leading up to and accompanying the COP26 conference, Webber Wentzel is focusing on what the conference means for South Africa and Africa and, specifically on businesses operating in Africa. 2021-10-17T22:00:00Z feff74d6-4b0f-453d-9db8-22508cbe8ac4 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/the-2021-un-climate-change-conference-what-it-means-for-south-africa.aspx At the United Nations climate change conference in Paris (COP21), governments agreed that mobilising stronger and more ambitious climate action is urgently required to achieve the goals of the Paris Agreement. 2021-10-17T22:00:00Z e09af020-be75-412f-831c-cd65f701584b https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/what-does-the-just-transition-look-like-in-south-africa.aspx Ahead of COP26 later this month, South Africa's commitment to the Just Transition will be a crucial element of its negotiating position. 2021-10-17T22:00:00Z 82bb1ca0-3f87-4e89-bbf6-061b09a792ae https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/tighten-the-esg-focus-or-face-litigation.aspx Litigation on Environmental, Social and Governance matters is rising in volume, both globally and domestically, but there are various steps that companies can take to mitigate the risks 2021-10-13T22:00:00Z 43904a0b-28b3-4ee8-9713-e2aa3777b26d https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/webber-wentzel-wins-esg-initiative-of-the-year-at-the-african-legal-awards.aspx We were awarded Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Initiative of the Year at the 2021 African Legal Awards for our pro bono work in supporting government in the minimising the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on South Africa. 2021-09-05T22:00:00Z 21da60c2-903a-4d4b-8f9d-a004bf50bbbf https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/pursuing-a-positive-impact-in-africa.aspx Webber Wentzel has contributed to Private Equity International's Africa Special Report with a keynote interview on sustainability, focusing on ESG and impact investing in Africa. 2021-08-31T22:00:00Z 40f18e0b-f803-4674-8f93-dcf896cd4a41 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/a-journey-of-growth-and-success.aspx Webber Wentzel Senior Partner Christo Els and Managing Partner, Sally Hutton, chat to Tom Pearson in a podcast focussing on the growth and success of one of Africa’s foremost law firms. 2021-08-09T22:00:00Z 41198d9d-3ff3-4d01-a6f3-426b2e1a87ea https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/new-draft-guideline-for-climate-change-impact-assessments-to-be-undertaken-when-pursuing-environmental-consent-applications.aspx A Climate Change guideline will shortly be published to assist with incorporating climate change considerations in various applications for environmentally-related licences 2021-07-13T22:00:00Z 05d61447-c2aa-4a1b-b75a-a428d12590ed https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/new-draft-guideline-published-for-ecosystem-impact-assessments-needed-when-pursuing-environmental-consent-applications.aspx SANBI, DFFE and the CSIR have developed a new Ecosystem Guideline in line with the Terrestrial and Aquatic Biodiversity Protocols that were gazetted last year 2021-07-11T22:00:00Z 2c5e7e2e-e0bd-4846-8774-23016418112c https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/africa-funds-benchmark-survey-2021.aspx With the increased need for patient capital both globally and in particular on the African continent, private equity continues to play a significant role in the funding of projects and deals across the continent. 2021-05-17T22:00:00Z 6a2fa3b3-b6c6-41c2-a872-656c803ae03e https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/21-legal-developments-for-businesses-to-monitor-in-2021.aspx We have collated a snapshot of key themes to track in 2021 and of 21 legal developments for the year which you will need to keep a tab on. 2021-02-17T22:00:00Z abd0e928-1440-4e4b-a575-a570d88aa0c6 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/the-legal-imperative-behind-esg-compliance-and-decarbonisation-reflections-from-mi-virtual-2021.aspx ESG Compliance Mapping will help mining companies to achieve ESG's priority impacts throughout their value chain 2021-02-08T22:00:00Z 4e1b5aca-4977-468b-b793-f1ff292d11b8 https://www.webberwentzel.com//News/Pages/integrating-esg-factors-in-the-investment-strategies-of-institutional-investors.aspx A draft revision of the Code for Responsible Investment in South Africa (CRISA) to align it with advances in regulation and governance of ESG issues, has been published for comment. 2020-12-17T22:00:00Z