South Africa's Climate Change Act: A New Era of Environmental Accountability

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed a comprehensive climate change law mandating emission limits for large polluters and requiring local governments to create climate adaptation plans. The law supports South Africa’s commitment to the Paris climate agreement, despite its current heavy reliance on coal for energy.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has enacted a sweeping climate change law that mandates emission caps for major polluters and requires towns and cities to develop adaptation plans.

The Climate Change Bill is designed to help South Africa meet its emissions reduction targets under the Paris climate agreement. Currently, South Africa, one of the world's largest greenhouse gas emitters, risks missing those goals due to its heavy reliance on coal for electricity.

'This is very significant as it's the first time our climate change response is enshrined in domestic law,' said Brandon Abdinor of South Africa's Centre for Environmental Rights. The law mandates each high-emitting government sector to set and achieve emissions targets, and large companies will be given carbon budgets, potentially leading to additional carbon taxes if exceeded.

(With inputs from agencies.)