- In a groundbreaking effort, SouthSouthNorth (SSN), in collaboration with the Net Zero Tracker (NZT), has developed an innovative methodology to assess climate mitigation targets and Just Transition measures across South Africa’s public and private sectors.
This timely analysis examines the climate plans of South Africa’s national, provincial, and city governments alongside major corporations. The findings illuminate opportunities for a fair and sustainable shift from a coal-based economy to a green, low-carbon future. The paper provides actionable insights into how equity and Just Transition principles are being integrated into climate commitments. By highlighting best practices and identifying gaps, it serves as a critical resource for driving more effective, inclusive, and transparent climate action.
Key findings
- Disparities in climate progress are evident, as climate targets vary across South African provinces, cities, and at the national level, with significant progress in some areas and slower adoption in others.
- City leadership is a key driver, with urban centres like Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg, and Pretoria are leading climate action through ambitious net zero targets and comprehensive just transition measures, often surpassing provincial frameworks.
- One-directional influence of provincial strategies is observed, as provincial climate strategies exert a positive influence on city-level policies, limiting the potential for integrated action.
- Wealth as a driver of climate ambition is evident, with more affluent provinces and cities formulating more ambitious climate strategies and just transition measures, while less affluent regions lag behind.
- Private sector commitments to a just transition are inconsistent across sectors, with some sectors exhibiting strong engagement while others lag.
Author: Bryan Groenendaal
