Pollution

Environmental pollution is a critical issue impacting human health, ecosystems, and businesses worldwide, including in Zambia and across Africa. At RBGLP, we are committed to helping our clients address the challenges posed by legacy pollution, manage ongoing environmental impacts, and ensure compliance with evolving regulations. By providing comprehensive legal and strategic guidance, we empower businesses to mitigate risks and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future.

The Issue

Pollution is a multifaceted problem with global, regional, and local implications. In Zambia, like many countries in Africa, economic and industrial development has historically been prioritised over pollution control. However, the growing awareness of pollution’s impact on human health and the environment is driving the implementation of stricter policies and regulations.

Key challenges include:

• Legacy Contamination: Industrial and mining activities have left a legacy of contaminated land and water in many regions.
• Health Impacts: According to the World Health Organization, air pollution is the leading environmental health threat, causing over seven million premature deaths annually. In Zambia, air pollution in urban centres and mining areas poses significant public health risks.
• Cross-Border Issues: Pollutants often transcend national boundaries, requiring coordination and compliance with regional and international standards.
• Evolving Regulations: The UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) underscore the importance of reducing pollution, with Target 3.9 aiming to significantly decrease pollution-related illnesses and deaths by 2030.

Businesses in Zambia and across the sub-region face increasing pressure from governments, regulators, and the public to reduce their environmental footprint and address pollution issues proactively.

What We Do

At RBGLP, we bring together multidisciplinary expertise to address the complex and cross-cutting nature of pollution-related challenges. Our Environmental and Natural Resources practice provides end-to-end support, helping clients navigate the legal, regulatory, and technical aspects of pollution control and management.

Our Services Include:

1. Regulatory Compliance and Permitting
   • Advising on compliance with local, regional, and international environmental standards.
   • Assisting with permitting for new or modified operations with potential environmental impacts.
2. Legacy Pollution and Liability Management
   • Addressing liabilities for contaminated land and water, particularly for clients in the industrial, mining, and energy sectors.
   • Advising on the allocation of liabilities under law and contract, including clean-up responsibilities.
3. Pollution Incidents and Dispute Resolution
   • Representing clients in regulatory enforcement actions, civil litigation, and class actions related to pollution incidents, spills, and leaks.
   • Assisting with investigations and resolution of disputes stemming from environmental liabilities.
4. Transactional Support
   • Negotiating and allocating pollution and clean-up responsibilities in corporate mergers and acquisitions, financing, and property transactions.
   • Ensuring compliance with environmental obligations in cross-border deals and joint ventures.
5. Air, Water, and Waste Pollution Management
   • Providing legal and technical guidance on reducing emissions from stationary and mobile sources, including vehicles.
   • Advising on water pollution management, including effluent discharge and stormwater run-off.
   • Supporting the design of waste management facilities and compliance with hazardous waste regulations.

Our Impact

Pollution issues cut across various environmental media, and RBGLP offers tailored solutions to address air, water, and waste pollution comprehensively:

1. Water Pollution
   • Assisting clients in meeting regulatory requirements for water discharges and implementing technologies to minimise contamination.
   • Advising on compliance with local, national, and international water quality standards.
2. Air Pollution
   • Supporting clients in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and complying with air quality standards.
   • Advising industries such as automotive and energy on implementing emissions regulations.
3. Waste Management
   • Guiding clients on hazardous waste disposal and minimising waste streams.
   • Assisting governments and private entities in the development of waste management facilities aligned with legal requirements.

Why RBGLP?

RBGLP provides comprehensive, client-focused advice to help businesses address pollution challenges and manage their environmental responsibilities effectively.

Our Value Proposition:

• Local Expertise: Deep understanding of Zambia’s environmental regulations and their interplay with regional and international frameworks.
• Multidisciplinary Approach: Expertise across legal, technical, and policy dimensions of pollution management.
• Proactive Guidance: Helping clients stay ahead of regulatory changes and public expectations.

Towards a Cleaner, Sustainable Future

Pollution management is not only a legal obligation but also an opportunity for businesses to demonstrate leadership in environmental stewardship. By addressing legacy pollution, minimising current impacts, and aligning with global sustainability goals, companies can protect their operations and contribute to a healthier environment.

At RBGLP, we are proud to partner with clients committed to making a positive difference. Let us guide you in managing pollution-related risks and achieving compliance while fostering a sustainable future for Zambia, Africa, and beyond.

Partner with RBGLP to navigate pollution challenges and lead the way in environmental responsibility.