Leading South African aquatic environment consultancy to close after 30 years

30 years ago this June, Bill Harding started assembling the framework of what was to become one of South Africa’s most successful environmental advisories. The outcome was DH Environmental Consulting (Pty) Ltd, specialising in the field of aquatic ecosystems.

Bill initially combined his undergraduate training in chemistry and microbiology with his experiences as a wetland and estuarine hydrobiologist, knitting together skills in physical, chemical, and biological limnology. Thus, he created a unique and incisive understanding of limnological ecology. By 1996 he had added Master’s and PhD qualifications in aquatic science to his CV, both studies undertaken under the inspirational guidance of the late Bryan Davies.

Further specialising in algology and diatomology, as well as in the ecological associations of primary producers in human-impacted waters, Bill created a skill set that rapidly became internationally recognised. By the end of the 1990s, he was regarded as an expert in the fields of eutrophication, cyanobacteria and algal toxins. In 1993 he established what was then, and remains since, the only laboratory facility ever dedicated to the analysis of cyanotoxins in Africa.

Bill had already been knee-deep in wetland studies long before these became de rigueur in local aquatic science. He used his understanding of these systems to design a variety of prominent artificial wetlands, such as Intaka Island at Century City, and the restoration of the extremely toxic Paardevlei at Somerset West.? He also developed lake and wetland modelling tools that were regionally specific in terms of climate, local hydrology, geology, and land use. The products of his diatomology research are relied on worldwide.

Over the intervening years, DH Environmental undertook, or participated in, hundreds of projects, including benchmarking applied research. These were often multidisciplinary, enlisting the services of teams of specialist disciplines. As an ecologist, Bill focused on ‘seeing the big picture’ and was able to keenly facilitate the deployment of various skill sets to the best advantage of the desired outcome. In this role, Bill saved millions in unnecessary expenditure. His services remain in demand from far afield; he was just recently requested for a project in Central Asia.

The 30 years have not been without controversy. On many occasions, Bill has expressed concern and constructive critique regarding the state agency’s apparent inability to get to grips with eutrophication. This anomaly, which threatens the health and economic existence of South Africa, continues to persist without evidence of relief.

In 2015 Bill moved actively into the field of environmental law. He completed a second Master’s and a Doctorate in Public Law, specialising in water and public trust law. His intention here has been to operate in the space between science and law to clear the fog of understanding that often hamstrings science from being able to effectively lead environmental law. This dual underpinning of science and law has substantially augmented Bill’s ability to conduct in-depth reviews of project plans and feasibility, paramount in a world where costly mistakes often occur due to an inadequate appreciation of prevailing limitations.

Although not an academic, Bill produced more than fifty peer-reviewed papers and reports over the years. Several more are in the process of drafting.

After 3 decades, Bill has decided to commence winding down the current DH Environmental business while continuing in a semi-retired capacity as a private consultant. As such, his skills will not be completely lost. DH Environmental was closely integrated with International Environmental Management Services Limited (IEMS), a non-profit USA-registered venture providing access to an international depth of aquatic science, planning, and decision-making skills. Bill will continue to fill the role of IEMS Director for Africa. He has two books to complete, as well as a variety of interests to pursue.

Sincere thanks to all DH Environmental’s clients over these thirty years, especially those who have returned again and again. Just this very week, one of the earliest DH Environmental clients from 1998 popped in for assistance with a new venture they are planning!

DH Environmental 17 February 2025