Request for Quotations: Environmental Authorisation Process for a Biochar Plant in Babanango, KwaZulu-Natal

The proposed project will use pyrolysis technology to convert biomass from invasive alien vegetation into biochar. Through the removal and productive use of invasive biomass, the project aims to support ecological restoration, sequester carbon, generate verified carbon credits, create local employment and contribute to improved soil health and long-term land productivity.

About the RFQ

The purpose of this RFQ is to appoint a suitably qualified Environmental Assessment Practitioner to determine and manage the appropriate environmental authorisation process for the proposed development.

Depending on the final location, configuration and production capacity of the facility, the required regulatory process may include a Basic Assessment, a full Scoping and Environmental Impact Reporting process, registration under applicable norms and standards, and an Air Emission Licence.

The appointed service provider will be responsible for ensuring that the process complies with the National Environmental Management Act, 1998, the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, 2014, as amended, and all other applicable environmental legislation.

About the Proposed Project

The project involves the proposed development and operation of a biomass pyrolysis facility within Babanango Game Reserve.

The facility will process biomass obtained through the removal of invasive alien vegetation. The biomass will be converted into biochar under controlled, oxygen-limited conditions.

The project may be implemented as:

• A pilot-scale facility with a production capacity below 20 tonnes per month; or
• A commercial-scale facility with a production capacity exceeding 20 tonnes per month, potentially expanded over time through the addition of modular pyrolysis units.

The final site and plant configuration will be informed by feedstock availability, transport logistics, environmental sensitivities, technology requirements and landowner agreements.

Who May Submit a Quotation

Respondents must be suitably qualified environmental consultancy firms or Environmental Assessment Practitioners registered with the Environmental Assessment Practitioners Association of South Africa.

Preference will be given to respondents who can demonstrate:

• Relevant experience conducting environmental assessments for industrial, renewable-energy or waste-management developments;
• Previous experience with biochar, pyrolysis or similar biomass-processing projects;
• Knowledge of South African environmental, air-quality, waste and water legislation;
• Experience managing public participation and regulatory engagement processes; and
• Access to a suitably qualified multidisciplinary team, including expertise in air quality, biodiversity, hydrology, environmental science and socio-economic assessment.

Submission Deadline

Clarification questions due: 22 July 2026
Quotation submission deadline: 17:00 South Africa Standard Time on 29 July 2026

How to Submit

Interested service providers should download the full RFQ document and follow the submission requirements outlined therein.

Sayari Earth looks forward to receiving quotations from qualified Environmental Assessment Practitioners and environmental consultancy firms interested in supporting the responsible development of the proposed Babanango biochar project.