South Africa’s response to addressing climate change has come full circle with the passing of the Climate Change Act in July 2024. This breakthrough comes at a time when South Africa is warming by approximately 0.2°C per decade, contributing to climate impacts ranging from extreme heat and drought to sea level rise and flooding. The results of these extreme weather events have been devasting to livelihoods and, subsequently, socio-economic development, which have been worsening over the years. The Climate Change Act is a significant step, as it shows progression and commitment to advance South Africa’s climate resilience, and to see it through achieving a just energy transition. However, the success of the overall climate change response is only as strong as its implementation. This policy briefing will assess the Act and provide a roadmap on how it can be effectively operationalised to achieve its mandate.
Busisipho Siyobiis a public policy researcher with a focus on the intersection of mineral resource governance and climate change in Southern Africa. Her research focuses on advancing the integration of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors and social performance within the extractive industries and shaping climate change response strategies that foster sustainability. She leads a programme team in developing and executing the research strategy on mineral resource governance and climate change. She works closely with civil society, industry, and international organisations in this capacity to promote good governance, transparency, and accountability to enable sustainable investment and development. Busisipho holds a Master of Philosophy in Public Policy from the University of Cape Town.
