The Gauteng Department of Environment has tabled its 2025/26 Budget under the theme “A New Era of Unity and Purpose.” This budget is not just about numbers, it is a strategic blueprint to build a greener, more just and economically inclusive Gauteng.
The MEC outlined the Department’s focus on accelerated service delivery, environmental justice, compliance and enforcement, and building partnerships that make sustainable development a reality. Every rand spent is aimed at restoring dignity, creating jobs, improving public health, and ensuring no community is left behind.
The Department is investing in key areas such as environmental restoration, climate resilience, sustainable agriculture, biodiversity protection, and waste management. Particular emphasis is being placed on improving compliance to environmental legislation, strengthening enforcement mechanisms, and holding polluters accountable.
Media Briefing: Questions and Responses
At the post-budget media briefing, the MEC responded to key questions from members of the press:
1. Clarification on fines and appeals:
In response to questions on environmental fines and compliance enforcement, the MEC confirmed that the Department has finalised over 230 appeals from a previously inherited backlog.
“My office is ensuring that appeals are logged and resolved within the legislative 90-day framework. We currently have fewer than 40 active appeals for the 2024 financial year, and I receive weekly briefings on this progress. This is part of our commitment to building an efficient and accountable administration.”
2. Budget allocation for water quality and sanitation:
The MEC confirmed that a significant portion of the budget has been allocated to water quality monitoring, pollution mitigation, and wastewater infrastructure.
“We are working closely with municipalities and national counterparts to improve water and sanitation services, ensuring safe water for all communities.”
3. Plans to clean 18 Central Business Districts (CBDs):
“We are taking bold action to clean our urban spaces. Our plan includes the rollout of underground skip bins, installation of monitoring stations, strict by-law enforcement, and enhanced intergovernmental coordination.
Municipalities will be held accountable, a clean Gauteng is a shared responsibility, and we are leading by example.”
This Budget marks a shift from policy to implementation, from backlog to momentum, from fragmented efforts to unified delivery. The Department calls on all stakeholders, communities, and municipalities to work together in restoring Gauteng’s environment for current and future generations.
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