The Climate Change Act marks a fundamental change in how South Africa will address climate change, moving from voluntary commitments to legally enforceable actions. From setting sectoral emissions targets to guiding local governments in their climate response, the Act lays out the government’s vision for securing a sustainable future.
Why is the Act so important?
The Act makes climate actions legally binding, requiring governments, businesses, and stakeholders to take specific measures to address climate change. This establishes a legal framework for accountability that was previously absent.
What is the most significant impact of the Act on the private sector?
Under the Act, non-compliant businesses may face fines, legal penalties, or license revocation for exceeding emission limits or failing to meet carbon budgets.
Sources
Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water: Synthetic Greenhouse Gases
The Climate Change Act is available here.
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