The proponent, Messrs Schmidtco Property Developers (Pty) Ltd, through Messrs Erongo Consulting Group, the Environmental Assessment Practitioner, is applying for the Environmental Clearance Certificate (ECC) for this township development project because it is a legal requirement under the Environmental Management Act (EMA) No. 7 of 2007 and the accompanying EIA Regulations (2012) in Namibia. The project involves substantial land use changes, construction, and development activities, which are likely to have significant environmental and social impacts. 1. Legal Requirement: According to Section 27 (2) of the EMA 2007, any project that may have a significant impact on the environment is required to undergo an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and obtain an ECC. The proposed township development falls under activities that are listed in the second schedule of the EMA, such as: - Township establishment on a large area of land (76 hectares). - Construction of residential housing, and support services, all of which can impact the local ecosystem, land use, and public services. - Possible impacts on biodiversity, water resources, and local infrastructure during and after construction. 2. Mitigating Environmental Impacts: The ECC ensures that the project will incorporate measures to manage and mitigate negative environmental impacts during construction and operation. This includes: - Reducing air and noise pollution during construction. - Managing waste and water resources to protect local ecosystems. - Ensuring sustainable land use practices that align with local zoning and environmental policies. 3. Public Consultation and Stakeholder Engagement: The application for an ECC requires public participation and consultation with stakeholders, including local communities and authorities. This process ensures that any concerns related to environmental, social, and economic impacts are addressed, fostering transparency and trust between the developer and the public. 4. Compliance with Planning and Zoning Regulations: The proposed development needs to align with local planning frameworks, such as the Henties Bay Zoning Scheme (2021). Applying for the ECC demonstrates that the project has considered all legal requirements and zoning regulations for land use in the area. 5. Project Authorization: The ECC provides formal authorization to proceed with the development, ensuring that all environmental aspects have been evaluated and approved by the authorities. Without the ECC, the project would not be allowed to start, leading to potential legal consequences and project delays. In summary, applying for the ECC is critical to ensure that the SchmidtCo Property Developers' township development adheres to Namibia’s environmental laws, mitigates any potential negative environmental impacts, and operates within the bounds of sustainable and responsible development.