Oil spills risk management system: challenges and prospects in South Africa

The devastating consequences of marine oil spills raise a concern on the efficiency of preparedness and response strategies. Previous studies have explored scientific variables, including the toxicity of pollutants and response mechanisms. This study is, however, limited to the critical analyses of the risk management system for oil spills in South Africa. Forty-two individuals within the field of marine oil spills management participated in the study. This paper identifies three salient elements that require attention in the South African context. Firstly, the existing legislative arrangements mandating the function of oil spills management are fragmented, highlighting a need for an integrated policy reform. Secondly, stakeholders involved in ex-ante and ex-post activities have limited technical capacity, suggesting the need for structured training and exercise inputs. Lastly, the complexity of the current financial arrangements creates a gap that undermines resilience, calling for the adoption of budgetary re-allocation and alternative forms of funding.