Case Study: Environmental Management

NCC was proud to contribute to the environmental integrity of King Shaka International Airport in advance of the 2010 Soccer World Cup.
The King Shaka International Airport was one of the most high profile and costly construction projects ever undertaken in KwaZulu Natal. It was also the first green-fields airport project undertaken by Airports Company South Africa (ACSA). The joint venture comprised 16 companies, with a project staff of + /- 8,000. The final cost was R7.8 Billion. The airport and associated structures form a key component of the 2,000 hectare Dube Trade Port development. When completed, the trade port will make KZN one of most important logistics hubs in South Africa.
But from the start, the bigger spotlight was on completing the airport in advance of the 2010 Soccer World Cup. Programme deadlines were tight, but meeting them wouldn’t happen at the expense of environmental controls.
NCC was appointed as Environmental Manager for the Ilembe EPC Joint Venture and Environmental Officer for the Illembe Civils Joint Venture. Responsibilities in these roles encompassed managing, monitoring and implementing Environmental Authorisations and the Construction Environmental Management Plan and ensuring compliance with other relevant environmental legislation.
The client had a strong commitment to implementing world class environmental practices in every aspect of development. NCC partners were hands-on in meeting daily challenges, backed by the expertise of 7 specialists in various environmental disciplines.
- Storm water and pollution control designs and alignments were adjusted to accommodate the Mt. Moreland wetlands, reputedly the largest roost site in South Africa for Barn Swallows migrating from Europe.
- Stormwater attenuation structures were built to inhibit/ regulate the flow of storm water running into the Umhlali River and Tongaat Rivers.
- Temporary sediment ponds were constructed to mitigate river pollution and water quality was monitored and sampled regularly.
Design Engineers and the environmental team worked together to modify the airports main access road to effectively preserve 80% of the stream and wetland which is a breeding site for the vulnerable Yellow Weaver.
- High environmental standards were confirmed by monthly independent audits.
NCC was proud to contribute to the environmental integrity of this project and the delivery of a world class airport in advance of the 2010 Soccer World Cup.