Environmental Practitioner

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to function as an Environmental Practitioner. An Environmental Practitioner identifies, prevents, monitors and reports site specific environmental risks and hazards; provides input to the integrated environmental management plan in compliance with the relevant legal and ethical framework and standard operation procedures; implement the roll out of integrated environmental plan. Typical graduate attributes will include among others leadership, discipline, compassion, communication, inquisitive, analytical, problem solving and dedication. A qualified learner will be able to: • Enforce compliance to the environmental regulatory framework. • Comply to the ethical framework in the workplace. • Contribute to the integrated environmental management plan (waste, air, biodiversity, etc.) • Apply the integrated environmental management tools. • Participate in implementing the operational plan based on operational strategies for environmental issues. • Develop and lead an inter-disciplinary team.

South Africa has a need to manage and protect its natural resources and ecological systems, while simultaneously using its resources in a sustainable manner to promote social, physical and economic development. There is also a need for people to be empowered to develop environmental management practices, which will ensure that their activities, individually and collectively, result in the sustainable use of resources and minimise negative impact on the environment. Recent developments in environmental legislation have resulted in an increased demand for competent practitioners with the necessary skills, knowledge and values to fulfil these legislative requirements. Typical learner for this qualification is any individual who is currently working as an environmental practitioner in the environmental management sector and new entrants, especially in the fields of environmental science, environmental management and waste management. It will also enhance the provision of service within the environmental management sector as it provides the specific knowledge, skills and values needed in the environmental management field. Currently there are no similar Environmental Practitioner qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework. The environmental protection shall aid sustain the natural resources for the economic development of the country for industries that are directly dependent on natural resources, thus sustain livelihoods. This need arises from the increased pollution incidents, mismanagement of resources, privatisation of water, etc. which lead to environmental degradation. The qualification will facilitate access to, mobility and progression within the environmental management education and training and career progression to environmental technician for potential learners. The qualification was developed in collaboration with professional and statutory bodies.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): RPL for Access: • Learners will gain access to the qualification through RPL for Access as provided for in the QCTO RPL Policy. RPL for access is conducted by accredited education institution, skills development provider or workplace accredited to offer that specific qualification/part qualification. • Learners who have acquired competencies of the modules of a qualification or part qualification will be credited for modules through RPL. RPL for access to the external integrated summative assessment: Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Accredited providers and workplaces must confirm prior learning by issuing a statement of result. Entry Requirements: • An NQF level 3 qualification.

• Apply environmental regulatory framework and adherence to the ethical framework in the workplace.
• Contribute to the integrated environmental management plan (waste, air, biodiversity, etc.)
• Apply the integrated environmental management tools.
• Implement the operational plan based on operational strategies for environmental issues.
• Develop and lead an inter-disciplinary team.