Service delivery and professional integrity are the two primary drivers behind the success of Somerset West-based dynamic environmental management consultants Greenmined Environmental.

The company was founded in early 2012 by Sonette Smit, whose environmental management experience draws from her tenure at private environmental consultancies and at the Department of Water Affairs.  This invaluable experience has equipped her with a depth of understanding of government departmental mechanisms and the functions that support the success of departmental application processes. The business is further strengthened by the complementary skills of Christine Fouché, who holds a diploma in nature conservation and brings strong leadership and project management skills to the mix. Also a former employee of the Department of Enviromental Affairs, Fouché has maintained good relationships with Departmental officials and has an in-depth knowledge of the Department’s systems.

“Although we’re a small business, we’ve rapidly become known for the high level of service we offer every client, regardless of the size of their company,” Smit says. “Our excellent relationships with the relevant government departments are of great value to clients, enabling us to obtain the necessary authorisations in the shortest possible time.  

“However, what also sets us apart in the industry is our determination to influence the corporate world’s outlook on being ‘green’. Thinking green shouldn’t be associated with encountering setbacks or delays, but rather as a means to ensure that companies achieve their objectives sooner rather than later. Our aim is to encourage economic development in a way that safeguards the earth and its resources by teaching people how to become more aware of the impact of their day-to-day activities. This helps to ensure that decisions are made with a ‘planet protection’ mindset.”

To date, the biggest project Greenmined Environmental has been involved in is the establishment of the Sere Wind Farm in the Western Cape Province, set to be one of the largest wind farms in southern Africa. Greenmined Environmental was appointed as a sub-contractor for Environmental Control work on an Eskom/Siemens/Raubex project to build wind turbines outside Koekenaap.

The company has established a large footprint throughout the country in response to requests for environmental control services from both government departments and the private sector, with a focus on the mining, agriculture and wine-producing industries.

“We are one of the few companies capable of providing fallout dust monitoring services in South Africa and our long term vision is to be able to supply a complete range of environmental services for all industrial sectors — effectively to become a one stop environmental shop,” Smit adds. “To this end, we’re already taking steps to introduce a new health and safety department to the company.”