As we reflect on the outcomes of COP29, this much is clear: the world is shifting towards an ever-deepening recognition of climate change as an existential challenge, and South Africa’s role in the global transition to a sustainable future is more pivotal than ever.
The recent discussions, negotiations and agreements reached in Azerbaijan must prompt serious reflection on how South Africa can align its own ambitious climate policies with the rest of the world’s evolving expectations and commitments.
The agreement reached on the new collective quantified goal for finance, at $300bn (about R5.4-trillion) per annum pledged by developed countries, is at least above the previous global commitment, but is nowhere near the $1.3-trillion that was being aimed for in tackling the climate crisis. For South Africa, and other nations on the front lines of climate change, this amount is inadequate when weighed against the magnitude of the challenges we face.
The financial commitments, while important, are insufficient to meet the needs for large-scale adaptation and a transition to green economies. Developed countries, which have historically contributed the most to global emissions, must do more. This pledge risks exacerbating debt burdens for vulnerable nations that are already grappling with climate impacts and struggling to access climate finance.
However, to mobilise the money we need robust, actionable plans at the national level. South Africa has made considerable strides over the past few years, notably with the release of the Climate Change Act, the Electricity Regulation Amendment Act and the national greenhouse gas inventory. These steps lay the groundwork for a climate-resilient future and reflect our commitment to meeting our fair share of global climate goals.
At COP29, the spotlight was on collaborative efforts to enhance ambition and accelerate implementation, and South Africa was no exception. We have a well-designed policy framework, which includes the nationally determined contribution and sectoral emissions targets, both of which set the stage for meaningful climate action. The alignment of these policies with our international obligations — particularly our commitment to keeping global warming below 1.5°C — remains vital, but it is now clear that the real challenge lies not in having the policies, but in their execution.
The discussions at COP29 underscored the importance of finance, technology and knowledge transfer in supporting emerging economies, and South Africa is poised to benefit from the support provided by international partners. As a programmatic approach, the just energy transition investment plan (JET-IP), which has already attracted more than $11bn in funding, provides a unique opportunity for the country to invest in renewable energy, green hydrogen and electric transport. However, as we know, money alone does not translate into change — implementation is where the true test lies.
What COP29 has demonstrated, particularly with regards to South Africa, is that leadership is the most critical factor in ensuring that policies are more than just aspirational. South Africa’s political and business leaders must take deliberate steps to ensure that commitments are not just words on paper but are backed by actions that will drive real change on the ground. There is a need for a unified approach, where government, business, civil society and labour work together to enhance South Africa’s ambition and ensure the successful implementation of the JET-IP and other climate initiatives.
However, as we know, money alone does not translate into change — implementation is where the true test lies
This includes focusing on key areas such as energy transformation, green industrialisation and sustainable job creation — all of which will benefit the people of South Africa, particularly the most vulnerable communities. We will have to co-create the interventions needed and use our plethora of skills to innovate on locally relevant solutions.
At COP29, South Africa reaffirmed its commitment to global climate goals, but as we head into the next phase of climate action, we must focus on the difficult yet essential task of translating policy into practice. There is no time to waste. Our renewable energy future is within reach, with projects such as the 38GW of renewable energy expected by 2030 already under way. But for these initiatives to succeed, we must ensure that they are fully aligned with the broader objectives of national development, including job creation, energy security and economic resilience.
While the outcomes of COP29 were not where they need to be, they are just the beginning. The real work starts now, in South Africa, where strong leadership and co-ordinated action are required. We must turn the discussions of the global stage into meaningful, on-the-ground actions that will shape a just and sustainable future for all South Africans.
• Soobramoney is the CEO of the National Business Initiative (NBI). The NBI, in partnership with the department of forestry, fisheries & the environment, led the South African business delegation at COP29.
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