South Africa lagging in climate action – Report

South Africa, the 14th largest carbon emitter in the World, has so far failed to match words with action as far as cutting carbon emissions is concerned, as it continues to heavily rely on coal amid slow implementation of renewable energy projects, an independent report said.

The report, commissioned by the South African presidency, found that strong public support and policies lacked proper actions to cut greenhouse gas emissions, which are higher than more industrialized nations like France and the UK.

To meet its climate action goals, South Africa needed a six-fold increase in the pace of renewable energy deployment.

However, the country has backtracked on pledges to close eight coal-fired power stations amid persistent blackouts that damaged the economy.

Currently, South Africa’s renewable capacity is at 10.4 GW, insufficient for achieving net zero emissions by 2050.

Contradictory policies and inadequate investment hinder the transition to cleaner energy, said the report.