Presidential Climate Commission Hails Signing of Climate Change Bill into Law

The Commission also aims to bolster its partnerships with stakeholders and improve its role in advancing climate change adaptation and response efforts.

The Presidential Climate Commission (PCC) has expressed its support for the Climate Change Bill, which President Cyril Ramaphosa has recently signed into law. This landmark legislation outlines the PCC's functions and clarifies the roles of provinces and municipalities in climate change mitigation, marking a significant step towards a climate-resilient, low-carbon economy in South Africa.

Dr. Crispian Olver, PCC Commissioner and Executive Director, praised the legislation, stating, “We welcome this ground-breaking legislation, which clearly sets out the functions of the PCC and the responsibilities of provincial and municipal governments in our climate change response. This Act is crucial for advancing our vision of a just transition to a climate-resilient society.”

The Climate Change Act establishes a comprehensive legal framework for South Africa's climate change strategy, aligning national policies and actions with global climate commitments. It mandates that all state organs review and, if necessary, revise their policies and programs to address climate change risks and vulnerabilities.

Dr. Olver highlighted the Act's role as South Africa's first comprehensive climate change legislation, aimed at fostering an effective response and ensuring a long-term, just transition to a low-carbon and climate-resilient economy. “Successful climate action requires aligning socio-economic, environmental, and governance policies. We are entering a new phase of climate action, and this Act will enhance institutional coherence and adaptation governance at all levels of government,” he said.

The PCC will strengthen its collaboration with government entities such as the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) and the National Treasury to implement the Act effectively. The Commission also aims to bolster its partnerships with stakeholders and improve its role in advancing climate change adaptation and response efforts.