10. Clause 25 consolidates the offenses, penalties and defences clauses scattered throughout the Act, into a single section, for ease of reference. It also further clarifies the defence provision in section 49A(2) which is only applicable to the offence relating to the commencement of a listed or specified activity in the absence of an environmental authorization (section 49A(1)(a)). The defense provision is only applicable in the event that a listed or specified activity commences without an environmental authorization in response to an "emergency situation" as defined in section 30A or to an "incident" as defined in section 30. In relation to an "emergency situation", the defence is only applicable if the response complies with the directive issued in terms of section 30A. In relation to an "incident", the defence is only applicable if the response is aimed at complying with the obligations set out in section 30(4) and is necessary and proportionate in relation to the threat to human life, property or the environment.