The Climate Change Act signed into law

The Climate Change Act, signed into law by President Cyril Ramaphosa in 2024 and officially proclaimed on March 17, 2025, marks a significant step in South Africa’s commitment to combating climate change.

The Act aims to develop effective climate change policies and facilitate a long-term transition to a low-carbon economy while fostering a resilient, inclusive green economy. This transition supports job creation in various sectors such as renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and eco-tourism. Minister for the Environment, Dion George, emphasized that this Act is pivotal for environmental sustainability, economic development, and job creation.

Despite the Act’s enactment, several provisions will only be operational later, as sections 12-22, 26, 27, 30, and 35 have been deferred until accompanying regulations are finalized. Many of these draft regulations are in advanced development stages and will soon be open to public commentary. The recent extreme weather in South Africa underscores the urgency for comprehensive climate action, pushing the government to ensure swift implementation.

The Act has important implications for the private sector, particularly concerning emissions. Law firm Bowmans, through Claire Tucker and Marga Jordaan, specified that the Act requires the Environment Minister to establish emissions targets for sectors, develop sector-specific emissions frameworks, publish a list of greenhouse gases, and assign long-term carbon budgets to entities responsible for substantial emissions.

These measures are crucial to ensure adherence to emissions standards and foster sustainable practices across industries. The Act represents a critical integration of environmental policy with economic objectives, aiming to mitigate climate impacts and promote sustainable growth.