Africa-Press – Lesotho. The Petroleum Fund held Stakeholder Forum to explain the feasibility study conducted by Group II company on recycling used oil in Lesotho. The meeting was held in Maseru on Speaking on behalf of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Petroleum Fund, Mr.
Lebohang Makhoali said the purpose of the feasibility study was to come up with a working plan projected to promote economic growth. He said the objective of the plan is to redefine used oil in Lesotho to create jobs within the petroleum sector and to ensure that all petroleum products have a minimal negative impact on the environment.
Mr. Makhoali added that the Petroleum Fund works in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals one, two, three, six, eight, nine and 12 which can be addressed through the implementation of this plan.
Dr Motsotuoa Makoae from Group II said the plan has the potential to be a success, but the challenge remains with the legislature and the principles that could be used to strengthen the plan.
He said currently, there is no circular economy policy, and it is required, saying Lesotho has adequate primary legislation that can be used to drive used oil management thus the Environment Act 2008.
Dr Makoae said the opportunities to recycle used oil can provide integrated environmental protection, pollution control, resources conservation and health protection. He, therefore, appealed for support, saying this needs a political will and commitment from both government and relative stakeholders. Mr.
Kobeli Tšasanyane from the Ministry of Defence, National Security and Environment shared the same sentiments that the plan can assist them to regulate the protection of the environment.
He said it is important to establish public-private partnership, develop regulatory mechanisms, produce educational material, raise awareness and put in place a used oil collection system.
Used lubricating motor oil is a high-pollutant material that requires responsible management. It may cause damage to the environment when dumped into the ground or water streams including sewers.
This may result in groundwater and soil contamination. Recycling such contaminated materials will be beneficial in reducing lubricating motor oil costs. In addition, it will have a significant positive impact on the environment.
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