News

South African National Parks (SANParks) joined the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) in marking the first-ever Environmental Management Inspector (EMI) Day on 20 November 2025. This annual celebration forms part of the DFFE’s EMI Brand Promotion Strategy, which aims to strengthen public awareness of the crucial role that Environmental Management Inspectors—commonly known as the Green Scorpions—play in the management of South Africa’s natural and cultural heritage.

As an accredited EMI institution, SANParks employs a substantial number of EMIs across its national parks. These dedicated officials work tirelessly to safeguard biodiversity, enforce environmental legislation, and uphold the integrity of protected areas. EMI Day provides a national platform to showcase their contributions, expertise, and daily operations in preserving the country’s natural environment.

Various parks joined in celebrating this important day on the conservation calendar. Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, Camdeboo National Park, Kruger National Park and Table Mountain National Park hosted a series of activities in collaboration with key stakeholders, including visible law enforcement operations that is aligned with this year’s theme:“Green Scorpions: The Protectors of the Environment for Future Generations.”

These activities aim to enhance public visibility of EMIs and raise awareness about the vital work they carry out every day. From enforcing environmental laws to combating wildlife crime, the Green Scorpions remain an essential force in safeguarding South Africa’s protected areas for generations to come.