Climate Change Act: Updates

The Climate Change Act 22 of 2024 has officially been proclaimed, marking a significant milestone in South Africa’s efforts to combat climate change. This Act aims to establish a comprehensive framework for climate action, promoting a transition to a low- carbon economy and society. However, several key provisions have been deferred pending the development of necessary regulations. While the Climate Change Act is now in effect, the implementation of certain significant sections has been postponed. The postponed sections include the establishment of the Presidential Climate Commission as an independent entity, provincial and municipal planning for climate change responses, national adaptation objectives and strategies, and regulations for greenhouse gas emission reductions and carbon budgets. The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment is currently developing regulations to enable these provisions.

The next steps involve the finalisation of the regulations for carbon budgets and sector emissions targets, which are crucial for the climate change response by South Africa. The government is also working on the National Adaptation Strategy Plan, which will set the framework for provincial and municipal climate response plans. Public input and comment on the draft regulations will be sought soon.