RBCT is committed to running a sustainable business. As part of that commitment, we are a proud signatory to the Energy and Efficiency Accord signed on 17 August 2006 with the Minister of Minerals and Energy, the Honourable Ms Buyelwa Sonjica. The Accord commits the company to the National Energy Saving Agenda of reducing energy wastage by between 12-15% by 2015. The first phase of RBCT’s energy saving initiates has been completed. Our internal team of experts is currently working on further initiatives to save energy.

Working in harmony with the environment

RBCT has had its Environmental Management System certified to ISO 14001 since February 2002. This was a very significant step for RBCT, as only organisations with sound environmental policies and practices can be certified to this international environmental standard. RBCT is pleased to have maintained its certification thus far during annual external independent audits by SABS.
The following are some of the initiatives designed to minimise any direct negative impact on the surrounding areas in the daily operations of the terminal:

• Several dust abatement mechanisms are in operation, including numerous computer-controlled water sprays. Information supplied by the SA Weather Bureau assists RBCT to use this system effectively, alerting the control tower prior to any high velocity winds reaching the area.
• 20 settling ponds are positioned at strategic points to collect run-off water, allowing suspended coal particles to settle, thus preventing them from entering the harbour. Boreholes are spaced throughout the terminal to monitor the quality of ground water.
• Over 5000 trees and shrubs have been planted on site to reduce the effect of wind and improve aesthetics.
• Road sweepers and a water tanker run on a constant cycle to keep roads free of dust.

Dolphins are regularly seen alongside the coal quay and a flourishing marine reserve exists on RBCT’s doorstep – home to pelicans, flamingos, fish eagles, waders, crabs and a host of other bird and marine life. An area within this reserve has been identified as a possible National Heritage Site, bearing testimony to the health of the surrounding natural environment.

Achieving superior safety standards

Safety is paramount at RBCT, evident in the company’s achievement of the National Occupational Safety Association’s (NOSA) 5 star status from 1989 – 1997 and NOSCAR status from 1998 – 2004 as well as OHSAS 18001 certification in 2006.

Promoting occupational and holistic health

RBCT employees have access to superior primary health care service from a fully equipped on-site clinic. This is manned by occupational health nurses and is visited regularly by a consulting doctor. The company has a holistic HIV/AIDS programme in place – encompassing prevention, education and management to ensure the wellness of all our employees who are infected or affected by the pandemic. RBCT currently has an HIV prevalence rate of 8.8%, with 86% of our staff having been for voluntary counselling and testing.