Climate Change Act 2024

Summary: The Climate Change Act, 2024 (Act No. 22 of 2024) is landmark South African legislation aimed at enabling an effective national response to climate change. It provides a legal framework for a long-term, just transition to a low-carbon, climate-resilient economy and society, ensuring that economic growth and social development proceed sustainably. The Act mandates coordinated climate action across all levels of government, aligning policies to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to climate impacts, while fostering innovation, job creation, and inclusive development in sectors like renewable energy, agriculture, and eco-tourism. It also establishes carbon budgets and sectoral emission targets, driving accountability and compliance to meet South Africa’s international climate commitments and safeguard the environment for present and future generations.