Driven by Experience, Committed to Environmental Excellence: Meet the Black Flamingo Team.
Black Flamingo Environmental Management and Ecological Services is led by Directors Werner Kriel and Claire Craxton.
Werner Kriel
With over 18 years of experience in the environmental sector, Werner Kriel brings a practical and solutions-oriented approach to construction, renewable energy, electricity transmission, and conservation projects. His international experience includes diverse projects such as multiproduct pipelines, power lines, high-voltage cables, substations, and even a 4800MW coal-fired power station. He is passionate about integrating ecological principles into project planning to preserve natural habitats and biodiversity, conducting thorough ecology surveys, and implementing effective mitigation measures.
Werner's specialist skills encompass ecological management, where he focuses on preserving natural habitats and biodiversity through integrated project planning, ecology surveys, and mitigation measures. He excels in construction environmental management, providing on-site environmental oversight, waste management, and ensuring regulatory compliance on large-scale projects. In environmental compliance auditing and monitoring, Werner conducts comprehensive audits to ensure adherence to environmental regulations and meticulously monitors compliance throughout project lifecycles. He is also adept at occupational health and safety, implementing safety protocols, compiling reports, and developing emergency response plans.
Werner is a pioneer in 3D modelling for civil applications, enhancing project planning and visualization. He is also skilled in thermal and optical inspections, conducting proximity assessments of electricity transmission structures to ensure structural integrity and safety. As a licensed drone pilot, he holds a Civil Aviation Authority permission for commercial use of Small Unmanned Aircraft, allowing him to conduct meticulous aerial inspections of construction activities. Finally, Werner excels in project management, leading multidisciplinary teams, coordinating activities, and delivering results on time and within budget.
Claire Craxton
Claire Craxton brings over 18 years of experience, offering a depth of expertise in developing and implementing comprehensive environmental strategies for a diverse range of complex projects. From large-scale infrastructure developments and renewable energy initiatives to mining endeavors and international development programs, Claire has a proven track record of delivering sustainable solutions across a broad spectrum of sectors and geographical locations. Her experience spans projects across South, Central, and West Africa, the United Kingdom, Europe, and the Dominican Republic.
Claire excels at integrating ecological principles into the core of project planning, safeguarding natural habitats and biodiversity through meticulous ecological surveys and the implementation of effective mitigation measures tailored to the specific environment. With a hands-on approach, she provides on-site environmental oversight and implements robust waste management protocols on large-scale construction projects, ensuring strict adherence to regulations and minimizing environmental impact. Her expertise extends to navigating complex regulatory landscapes and conducting thorough environmental compliance audits to ensure ongoing project adherence to environmental standards.
Beyond technical expertise, Claire understands the critical importance of community engagement. She skillfully conducts socio-economic studies, executing impact assessments, and fostering collaborative relationships with stakeholders to ensure community alignment and project acceptance.
Claire’s experience across various project types and her comprehensive skill set position her as a key asset for Black Flamingo. She is dedicated to developing and implementing effective environmental strategies that lead to sustainable, responsible, and successful project outcomes.