Application to prospect for rare earth and heavy metals in the Richtersveld cause for concern

Protect the West Coast (PTWC) has noted an application by Cape Nickel Ventures to prospect for a plethora of metals with hazardous potential to the environment should it lead to a Mining Right down the line. The metals Cape Nickel Ventures are after include cobalt, lead, tin, and other rare earth and heavy metals. A public meeting on the application will be held at the Kliprand Community Hall on Thursday January 30. PTWC urges the public to register as an Interested and Affected party at our public participation portal www.ripl.co.za

Looking back at a stellar 2024

PTWC’s fourth year marks a major step forward in our mission, thanks to the dedication of the team and the passionate involvement of our community that continues to inspire us to protect the environment and people of the region, and to create a thriving and abundant West Coast that benefits all. Here we look back at our top 10 highlights of 2024.

Long Awaited Environmental Plan from Trans Hex “remains non-compliant”

To comply with an agreed order of the Western Cape High Court, mining company Trans Hex has finally delivered its updated Environmental Management Programme (EMPr) to mine near the Olifants River Estuary and surrounding coast. However, according to a team of scientists and lawyers, it contains serious flaws that render it non-compliant with the order.

Please keep off the (sea)grass! 

Explore an endangered, hidden marine plant in South Africa through the eyes of a researcher from Stellenbosch University, who has studied this often-overlooked and little-known flora at a site on the banks of the Olifants River Estuary, which is currently under enormous threat from the mining industry. What is seagrass, why is it endangered, why is mining a threat to it and why should you care?

New Mining Application: Red Flag over Biodiversity Loss

Geographical Map of a portion of the West Coast of South Africa

Protect the West Coast (PTWC) has raised a red flag over a diamond mining application that will destroy 3,184 hectares of critical biodiversity biome in the Northern Cape. We encourage you to sign up to our new public participation platform Ripl to add your voice to our concerns regarding this potentially devastating application.

Ripl makes waves at official launch event!

The public participation tool Ripl launched by Protect the West Coast in Cape Town this week has opened the door to a new era of democratic oversight over the granting of mining and prospecting permits on the West Coast. 

PTWC launches exclusive range of eco-friendly upcycled bags and backpacks

Protect the West Coast (PTWC) has added a range of eco-friendly bags and backpacks to its merchandise collection. Made from upcycled materials such as Bedouin tents, used sails and advertising banners, these unique, durable bags are available in a wide range of colours and styles that combine sustainability with functionality – and come with a lifetime warranty.