The legislation that is designed to define, manage, monitor, and implement the country’s climate change, South Africa’s new Climate Change Act has officially passed.
The strategic approach for improvement on climate resilience and sustainability in South Africa is important, as it involves investing into renewable energy sources, coming up with solutions for nature like reforestation and sustainable agriculture, and including climate concerns in planning and infrastructure growth.
Reports have it that Dr Dion George the Minister of forestry, Fisheries and the Environment said: “the President signing of the climate change bill into law marks a significant milestone in our nation’s commitment to addressing climate change. The act sets out a national climate change response, including mitigation and adaptation actions, which also constitutes South Africa’s fair contribution to the global climate change response.”
The key provision of the act is that:
- Mitigation is there to establish national greenhouse gas (GHG) where it paves a way that requires Ministers to develop and implement measures to address climate change by setting targets and allowing companies to comply with mandatory carbon budget.
- Adaptation deals with the involvement of provincial, local, and communities to address climate adaptation challenges. These groups will have to ensure they bring about perspectives, resources, and knowledge to the table.
Educational campaigns and community programs are important in raising awareness on climate changes and aims to empower individuals to make informed decisions and act towards a greener future. President Cyril Matamela Ramaphosa last week on the 23rd of July 2024, signed the act as a sign that South Africa’s new government is there to make a difference on climate change and renewable energy than the previous government officials