South Africa has taken a decisive step in its commitment to
addressing climate change with the enactment of the Climate Change
Act 15 of 2022 (the ‘Climate Change
Act'). This legislation provides a framework for the
country's transition to a low-carbon and climate-resilient
economy.
On 23 July 2024, President Ramaphosa assented to this pivotal
piece of legislation. Its provisions will be implemented in
phases.
Some provisions are already in operation, such as section
21(4)(e), which now requires organs of state to ensure their
policies and decisions align with the National Climate Change
Response, the National Adaptation Strategy, and the country's
emissions reduction commitments. This critical provision will
significantly impact the functioning of government and its
interactions with other sectors, including, where relevant,
non-governmental organisations, the private sector, and local
communities.
