ENSafrica

James Brand is a Senior Associate in ENSafrica’s Natural Resources and Environment department. He specialises in advising the agribusiness sector and has particular expertise in advising on water law.

This includes advising clients on the process of verifying existing lawful water use entitlements, water use licence requirements, water use disputes, waste water authorisation, water transfers and drought mitigation as well as representing clients in their dealings with the Department of Water and Sanitation and the Blue Scorpions. He has acted for international and local clients as well as government entities, national parks and nature reserves in a number of industries and sectors including mining, nuclear energy, construction, agriculture and aquaculture.

James’ experience also includes advising on a variety of environmental law issues in accordance with the National Environmental Management Waste Act 59 of 2008 and other related legislation. In this regard he has been involved in representing interested and affected landowners in opposition to potentially environmentally damaging urban and rural developments, including landfill sites, harbour developments, illegal dam structures and coastal marine outfall pipes. He has also represented a number of industrial clients in their dealings with the Department of Environmental Affairs and the Green Scorpions.

James also advises clients in respect of waste management and land-use planning related matters and has advised both developers and funders of renewable energy projects under the South African government’s renewable energy procurement process.

Education

• BA (University of Cape Town)
• LLB (University of Cape Town)
• LLM (University of Stockholm, Sweden)
• Admitted as an attorney of the High Court of South Africa

Professional Activities and Experience

James is recognised as a leading/recommended lawyer by:

• Best Lawyers® 2020, 2019 – Environmental (South Africa)