Page 225 - SAMRC Annual Report 2024-2025

GOVERNANCE

SUSTAINABILITY REPORT

In line with Section 24 of the Constitution of the • Commissioning photovoltaic (PV) systems for the
Republic of South Africa, Act 108 of 1996, which places IT server room and the Biomedical Research and
a duty on the state, business, and all citizens to prevent Innovation Platform (BRIP) laboratories, which are
environmental harm and to promote conservation now fully operational.
and sustainable development, the SAMRC remains • Ongoing feasibility studies into the expansion of
committed to responsible environmental stewardship. PV system installations across additional facilities.
As part of our core values, Citizenship underpins our In support of sustainable practices, SAMRC has
responsibility not only to the community, the nation, adopted the following environmental initiatives:
and the world – but also to the environment. This
principle guides our efforts to embed sustainability • Progressive replacement of air conditioning units
into our operations and decision-making. with CFC-free, energy-efficient models during
renovations and regular maintenance.
The SAMRC continues to implement practical and • Replacement of two petrol combustion vehicles
impactful solutions to reduce our environmental with two hybrid vehicles.
footprint, with a particular focus on energy and water
efficiency, responsible waste management, and • Incorporation of waste minimisation strategies
environmentally sustainable procurement. wherever practicable.
• Continued use of biodegradable eating utensils
To reduce reliance on municipal water sources, the at the Conference and Event Management Office,
SAMRC maintains rainwater harvesting systems and reducing single-use plastic waste.
uses borehole water where available. These initiatives
contribute significantly to reduced water consumption Hazardous waste is generated as a result of the nature
at our campuses. of SAMRC's research projects and during facility
renovations and maintenance. To ensure safe and
Additionally, the installation of electronic water compliant handling of this waste, the SAMRC adheres
metering devices at SAMRC-owned sites has to strict disposal protocols that align with national
enhanced our ability to monitor water usage. These environmental legislation and health and safety
meters assist in detecting anomalies in consumption regulations.
patterns, enabling prompt investigation and resolution
of potential leaks or inefficiencies. Hazardous materials are identified, segregated, and
stored securely in clearly marked containers. Approved
SAMRC’s ongoing building refurbishments and and certified waste management service providers are
maintenance activities incorporate various energy- contracted to collect, transport, and dispose of this
saving technologies. These include: waste responsibly. Documentation and tracking of
hazardous waste disposal are maintained to ensure
• Installation of electronic electricity metering and accountability and regulatory compliance. Ongoing
monitoring systems across SAMRC campuses, staff training ensures that personnel involved in waste
enabling more effective management of energy handling are informed about proper procedures and
use. potential risks.

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