Issue 10 2024 of The Green Agenda

How to prepare for the Just Economic Transition

Increasing Climate Adaptation and Resilience in Agriculture and Agroprocessing

With South African industries increasingly recognizing the need to better prepare for the impact of climate change on their bottom-line and their overall sustainability strategies, the acceleration of industry’s climate resilience is becoming ever more critical.

The South African Industry Adaptation (SAIA) Project aims to strengthen the climate resilience of the country’s industries by assisting them to address barriers hampering the accelerated adoption of climate-resilient measures and technologies, and in developing desirable pathways and more sustainable practices for climate-resilient operations.

The project focuses on the water-energy nexus in the agro-processing sector. Specific activities include:

• Implementing and showcasing technology upgrades in pilot enterprises;

• Strengthening the ability to develop and finance resilient capital investment projects in the green economy;

• Stimulating and nurturing marketable green innovations; and

• Building capacity in industries, academia and the knowledge institutions to mainstream climate action.

Launched in 2022 with funding from the Government of Flanders, this three-year project is implemented by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), jointly with the National Cleaner Production Centre South Africa (NCPC-SA) and the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA).

Pilot projects demonstrating climate resilient interventions

Five companies were selected as pilot projects for support following two calls for applications to identify industry partnerships. One company unfortunately had to withdraw, while Project Imifino, Thiele Holdings, Reyneke Wines, and Afrimat Hemp received support through grant cofinancing, technical assistance, or a combination of the two.

Project Imifino

In 2020, Eastern Cape-based enterprise TaylorMade Water Solutions partnered with AB InBev to develop Imifino” (meaning “vegetables”) at the Ibhayi Brewery in Gqeberha. This high-impact demonstration project applies a circular economy approach to integrate crop production and effluent treatment to create a profitable, sustainable local value chain from brewery wastewater.

Covering an area of 2000m2, Project Imifino uses integrated constructed wetlands and raised hydroponic beds to capture the nutrient potential in the effluent from the brewery. This cleans the water so that it can be reused in the brewery (after undergoing further UF/RO treatment) and produces fresh crops instead of sludge. Some 1500 kg of fresh produce – mostly spinach - are thus grown weekly for local sale, with eight jobs created and ongoing research and collaboration opportunities.

In 2022 Imifino was selected as the first pilot project under the SAIA project. Imifino was supported in procuring a containerised ultrafiltration solution, which was supplied and co-funded by Flemish technology company Waterleau. The advanced equipment will enable the wetland to produce in excess of 250 m3 per day of effluent suitable for direct onsite re-use by the brewery, and contribute to water security for the surrounding communities.

Thiele Holdings

Thiele Holdings is a piggery farm in rural KwaZulu-Natal with operations running around the clock. It operates a feed mill, grows various crops and runs a Bradford cattle herd. With operations highly dependent on energy security, the farm recently installed a 120kW solar system to supplement its energy demand during loadshedding, Through grant co-financing under the SAIA project, Thiele was enabled to develop a biogas plant to complement the solar plant, thereby further reducing its dependence on the grid and increasing energy security.

Then-Minister President of Flanders, Mr. Jan Jambon with South African and Flemish guests at the launch of the SAIA project in Pretoria April 2024

Project Imifino – Image courtesy of AB InBev

Afrimat Hemp

Afrimat Hemp is at the forefront of commercializing hemp-based building products in Africa. Existing international decortication technologies, which are critical in scaling hemp production, are not to be suitable for Southern Africa’s conditions.

The SAIA grant co-financing supported Afrimat Hemps development of containerised decortication machines, incorporating solar and energy storage technologies. The containerized machines will facilitate decentralized, on-site hemp processing.

Reyneke Wines

Reyneke Wines is an award-winning leader in sustainable and inclusive industrial development in the South African wine industry, located in Stellenbosch in the Western Cape. The grant support under the SAIA project contributes to a diverse range of development projects and sustainability initiatives at the winery, including the:

• Establishment of a wastewater treatment plant (bioreactor) to treat effluent from the winery for reuse;

• Purchase of a four-wheel electric vehicle to reduce the direct fuel emissions associated with daily farm and vineyard operations; and

• Purchase of an agricultural drone for spraying fungicide on the vineyard.

Advanced accelerator support

Five companies with industry-focused adaptation solutions were shortlisted for support through the TIA-coordinated Direct Enterprise Support Programme under the SAIA project. Three companies

- Kulu Eco Services, Phambili Energy and Mbali Success Foodswere subsequently selected for further customised grants and acceleration support towards market readiness.

Kulu Eco-services

Kulu Eco-services is an innovative waste management company tackling South Africa’s organic waste challenges. With 122 million tons of waste generated annually and only 10% recycled, landfills are strained, especially by complex organic waste streams that composting cannot handle. Kulu addresses this by transforming waste from agro-processing, industrial, and hospitality sectors into feedstocks for biogas and biofuels. Through a unique separation and processing system, the company treat waste streams that were previously untreatable, converting them into renewable energy.

Phambili Energy

Phambili Energy is a technology company with a particular focus on the development and production of bio-energy, bio-foodstuffs, bio-chemicals, and other bio-char, organic, sustainable, and renewable products. Its state-of-the-art technology produce several marketable products from various types of waste materials. These products include green bio-char coking pellets for the steel industry to replace anthracite coking coal, supercharged soil remediation bio-char, bio-char granular NPC and foliar fertilisers as well as green wood preservative products.

Mbali Success Foods

Mbali Success Foods developed innovative methods to process butternut pumpkins, offering consumers a range of non-traditional butternut products. The company applies an eco-friendly approach using biochar fertilizer to grow organic butternuts, drip irrigation powered by solar and biogas, and water-saving techniques, thereby significantly reducing environmental impact. Mbali Success Foods aims to make butternut pumpkin production and processing a sustainable, profitable business that provides top quality products, encouraging healthy living and snacking.

Afrimat Hemp CEO Muller Bosshoff in discussion with UNIDO team members

Reyneke Wines

Carbon pellets for coking coal replacement in Phambili Energy’s decarbonization inititiave

Jozini Dam is the main irrigation source for pumpkin processing and production at Success Foods

Strengthening climate resilience: Supporting the Just Energy Transition

Welcome to the December edition of Green Agenda. As 2024 comes to an end, we are feeling positive and optimistic – not because of the approaching festive season, but because unfolding developments in the green economy are just cause for celebration.

A great opportunity to shift towards a low-carbon economy has come South Africa’s way, in the form of a R7.6 billion loan from the French Development Agency (AFD) to implement the country’s Just Energy Transition Plan (JETP). Worked out in close collaboration with the Presidency and National Treasury’s JET Programme Management Unit, this innovative financing initiative is geared to maximise positive social impacts on local communities. As is well known, when the grassroots receive rain, the entire country benefits, so everybody has a stake in the success of JETP.

One of the most promising sectors promising to unpack present value and contribute to job creation is the so-called Blue Economy. By focusing on protecting maritime areas and waterways, it’s possible to unlock efficiencies and opportunities along a broad front of activities, including spatial planning, property development, operations in ports and harbours, waste management, tourism, and aquaculture, to mention a few. Our special feature unpacks these strategic investment opportunities.

When it comes to renewable energy, South Africa has long been recognised as offering vast potential in solar, wind power generation, landfill gas, and hydropower. However, policy implementation has not always lived up to expectations, leading to challenges such as obtaining Section 53 approvals, zoning and land-use approvals, lengthy procurement processes, and electricity grid distribution and transmission bottlenecks. Fortunately, that state of affairs is poised to change, with recent statements by the Deputy Minister of Electricity and Energy, Samantha Graham-Maré, suggesting that critical reforms are in the pipeline. These reforms are intended to cut red tape in the renewable energy sector, which will in turn accelerate project delivery and energy infrastructure development. This will enable more efficient tariff calculation, improved financing, and swifter project implementation, in turn driving job creation, stimulating demand local SMMEs, and accelerating energy security. Find out how these exciting developments can benefit your business in our special feature.

With energy security comes the opportunity to improve livelihoods at the most important level – that of the community. In South Africa, the phrase “smart cities” is often heard in conversations touching on human settlements, but what does it mean? For some, it conjures up technological fantasises in which AI solves every problem, leaving citizens with very little to do. More realistically, it means using technology to integrate services for the betterment of all. A recent statement by Saki Mokoena, Free State MEC for Cooperative Governance, Traditional Affairs (Cogta), and Human Settlements, puts it in a nutshell:

“We don’t only have to build communities but smart cities that are integrated to enhance the positive living of our people and ensure productivity. Human Settlements are good for communities where amenities such as schools, police stations, hospitals, and places of work are integrated. Government alone cannot achieve that; we need the combination of all sectors to take the country to another level.”

Find out more about how South African can achieve smart, green, liveable cities in our special feature.

Of course, none of these exciting initiatives stand a chance of getting off the ground in the absence of a capable workforce equipped with the green skills to lead and implement the change. This means capacitating role-players at every level, from workers and artisans to the decision-making echelons. A tremendously exciting development in this regard is the empowering role embraced by the Energy and Water Sector Education and Training Authority (EWSETA). Under the inspirational leadership of CEO Mpho Mookapele, EWSETA has progressed from offering basic entry-level skills to forging partnerships with local and international players designed to proactively develop fit-for-purpose training to ensure that when policy implementation leads to concrete opportunity, there will be a local skills base to realise it. Find out more in our Special Focus.

Enjoy the read. If you find inspiration, let us know! Until next year.

GREG PENFOLD | EDITOR

THE GREEN AGENDA TEAM

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Royston Lamond

EDITOR Greg Penfold

NEWS PRODUCTS • HAPPENINGS • EVENTS

South Africa welcomes COP29 outcome in Baku

By Nazrin Babayeva

South Africa's Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dion George, has welcomed the outcomes of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) that was concluded in the early hours of November 24 in Baku, Report informs referring to the South African ministry.

"Following an intense two weeks of consultations and negotiations, parties adopted the Baku Climate Unity Pact consisting of a New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) on climate finance, Global Goal on Adaptation and Sharm el-Sheikh Mitigation Ambition and Implementation Work Programme as well as the key decisions on implementing.

Going into the negotiations, Minister George, who was also the leader of the South African delegation, was optimistic that parties would take meaningful decisions toward quantifying resources for developing economy countries to meet ambitious climate targets," reads the report.

“There have been complaints from other parties about the leadership of the COP29 Presidency and that the decisions were not reached through full consensus. However, for South Africa, the decisions that were adopted are a win. While we understand the frustration expressed by some parties, we do see the outcomes as a significant step in the right direction as it is more than what we had going into the negotiations and we can now build on that, especially given that South Africa will be the next President of the G20,” said Minister George.

"With regard to the new finance goal, the developed economy countries have committed to mobilising at least USD300 billion per year by 2035 for developing economy countries for climate action. The agreement also provides signals to private sector and multilateral development banks to scale up financing to developing economy countries to USD1.3 trillion per year by 2035.

“The decision underscores the importance of reforming the multilateral financial architecture, to make it fit for purpose to address the climate crisis. It also calls for scaled-up support for climate action from multilateral financial institutions through grant-based and concessional financing,” said Maesela Kekana, Chief Negotiator, Deputy

Director General for Climate Change and Air Quality Management at the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE).

Kekana explained that it further underscores the need to reduce barriers and address disenablers faced by developing economy countries in such as limited fiscal space, high levels of debts and high cost of capital, in order to prevent such barriers and disenablers from becoming conditionalities for access by developing economy countries to climate finance.

South Africa’s negotiating team was particularly pleased about the decision on the Mitigation Work Programme, which was Co-Chaired by Minister George and his Norwegian counterpart, Tore O. Sandvik. “The Mitigation Work Programme will provide further opportunities to share experiences and match investment needs with investors. I am pleased with the outcome,” said Minister George.

On adaptation, parties are on track to finalise the work on the adaptation indicators to track progress in the implementation of the global goal on adaptation, at COP30 in Brazil in 2025. The Conference also welcomed the rapid institutionalisation of the Loss and Damage Fund. Under the leadership of South Africa and France, the fund is expected to disburse funds to climate vulnerable communities in mid-2025.

Team South Africa believes that COP29 was a huge success, which has inspired hope that we will be able to do more in future," reads the report.

Heineken Green Zones transforms Durban’s Sisonke City Farm into a sustainable community oasis

By Heineken Beverages

In a significant step toward sustainable urban transformation, Heineken and the Greenpop Foundation are thrilled to announce the launch of a new green zone at Sisonke City Farm in Durban. Marking the Durban debut of the Heineken Green Zones (HGZ) project, this green zone is dedicated to creating eco-friendly, accessible spaces in under-resourced communities across South Africa. This initiative forms a key part of Heineken’s global “Brew a Better World” commitment, focusing on empowering communities, promoting environmental health, and ensuring “fields green with grass, not glass” throughout South Africa.

Originally a community-led project initiated during the Covid-19 lockdown, Sisonke City Farm has blossomed from humble beginnings into a thriving urban farm. With HGZ support, the farm now features enhanced infrastructure such as a nursery, a water catchment system, and an amphitheatre for community workshops and events. This green zone also includes biodiversity gardens with indigenous plants and fruit trees, enhancing food security and sustainable agricultural practices for the community.

Empowering local communities through sustainable urban agriculture

The Sisonke City Farm green zone does more than green the landscape - it builds community pride and offers hands-on ecological education. Through a closed-loop system that composts local food waste to support new growth, the green zone exemplifies Heineken’s circular economy principles and directly benefits local hotels and restaurants. This sustainable approach aligns with the beer’s commitment to environmental resilience, bringing lasting value to Durban’s communities.

Turning glass into grass: Heineken’s returnable STAR

Bottle and Waste2Wear campaigns

A pivotal element of the HGZ project is Heineken’s broader mission to reduce single-use glass waste and foster a circular economy. This year, Heineken introduced the returnable 650ml STAR bottle, a key innovation aimed at replacing single-use glass and curbing glass waste across South Africa. Beyond this, Heineken has also launched its Waste2Wear initiative, which transforms collected glass waste into iconic jewellery and homeware pieces—cult items for eco-conscious consumers. These unique creations symbolise the HGZ philosophy of turning waste into beauty and ensuring fields are green with grass, not glass.

“This green zone at Sisonke City Farm exemplifies our commitment to making fields green with grass, not glass,” said Bhavna Mistry, senior brand manager for Heineken. “By working with the local community to transform this area, we’re creating a space that replaces waste with natural beauty and brings new life to what was once overlooked. Through sustainable initiatives like our returnable STAR bottle and Waste2Wear products, we’re helping reduce single-use glass and showing how environmental stewardship can empower communities to thrive. We’re proud to support Sisonke City Farm in building a sustainable, resilient future for all.”

A community-centred approach to Urban Greening

The Sisonke City Farm green zone reflects HGZ’s dedication to a community-first approach. Local residents have actively participated in the design and construction process, fostering ownership and pride that will sustain the green zone for years to come. By employing local labour and providing hands-on training, the brands have empowered community members to take on a stewardship role, ensuring this green space remains a vibrant, well-maintained asset.

“The Heineken Green Zone at Sisonke City Farm highlights the importance of cross-sector collaboration towards a more, just, equitable, and regenerative South Africa” said Chris Nash, Urban Greening project manager for HGZ. “Celebrating local champions, supporting and elevating exemplary demonstrations of positive action and grit, even in the hardest conditions, is Ubuntu in action.”

A vision for sustainable urban development

The green zone at Sisonke City Farm sets a new standard for community-centred urban greening in Durban. This site not only enhances the natural landscape but also serves as an educational and sustainable model for other communities across South Africa, in line with a vision for a cleaner, greener future. By partnering with local communities, the beer brand is ensuring that fields across South Africa stay green with grass, not glass.

Five Winners of the 2024 Earthshot Prize unveiled

The five 2024 Earthshot Prize Winners were announced at a star-studded awards ceremony in Cape Town, South Africa, hosted by Emmy, Grammy and Tony Award winner Billy Porter and award-winning television presenter Bonang Matheba.

The 2024 Winners, selected from this year’s 15 Earthshot Finalists, will be awarded £1 million each to accelerate and scale their game-changing environmental solutions. Following a rigorous selection process focused on identifying impactful, inspiring and inclusive environmental solutions, the five Winners are:

• Protect and Restore Nature: Altyn Dala Conservation Initiative, Kazakstan

• Clean Our Air: Green Africa Youth Organisation (GAYO), Ghana

• Revive Our Oceans: High Ambition Coalition for Nature and People, Global

• Build a Waste-Free World: Keep IT Cool, Kenya

• Fix Our Climate: Advanced Thermovoltaic Systems, USA

Altyn Dala Conservation Initiative

Winner for Protect and Restore Nature Nominated by: United Nations Environment Programme Altyn Dala Conservation Initiative has achieved the almost unprecedented feat of saving the critically endangered Saiga antelope from extinction. This mission has grown into one of the world’s largest conservation projects and is focused on protecting and restoring Kaakhstan’s Golden Steppe, one of the world’s least protected natural ecosystems.

“We are thrilled to be receiving the 2024 Earthshot Prize for Protect and Restore Nature. Altyn Dala demonstrates that when governments and civil society work together with a shared vision, we can achieve remarkable results.”

“The restoration of the Saiga antelope population and the revival of the Central Asian steppe are not just triumphs for wildlife but for the local communities that depend on these ecosystems.”

Vera

Voronova

Executive Director, Altyn

Dala

Conservation Initiative

NEWS PRODUCTS • HAPPENINGS • EVENTS

GAYO, Green Africa Youth Organisation

Winner for Clean Our Air

Nominated by: Clean Air Fund

A youth-led, gender-balanced organisation, GAYO uses its “Zero Waste Model” to drive behavioural change in waste management practices across Africa that cut greenhouse gas emissions and particle pollution, while also bringing additional income to communities. Their goal is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and particle pollution in Ghana by 70%, compared to open burning, as well as divert a total of 4,000 tonnes of waste by 2030. GAYO’s plans to scale would make them the leading model for waste management on the continent.

“We are incredibly honored to be winning the Prize, which is a testament to the power of community-driven solutions and the importance of empowering those most affected by climate challenges.”

“Our work in Ghana demonstrates that sustainable waste management isn’t just a possibility—it’s a necessity. The recognition by The Earthshot Prize fuels our commitment to replicating these models across Africa, proving that local solutions can have global impacts.”

Desmond Alugnoa Co-Founder of the Green Africa Youth Organisation (GAYO)

High Ambition Coalition for Nature and People

Winner for Revive Our Oceans

Nominated by: Campaign for Nature

A groundbreaking alliance of 119 countries with the ambitious goal to protect 30% of land and oceans by 2030, High Ambition Coalition identifies technical, financial and knowledge gaps and connects governments with technical assistance and funding. They’ve already achieved a major milestone with the adoption of the “30×30” target in the 2022 UN Global Biodiversity Framework.

“On behalf of the alliance, we are deeply humbled to be a Winner of this year’s Earthshot Prize.”

“Today’s award validates the hard work and dedication of all involved in the 30×30 initiative and fuels our excitement and determination to protect 30 percent of the world’s land and oceans by 2030. Together, we can achieve a more sustainable and biodiverse future.”

Rita Maria El Zaghloul Director, High Ambition

Coalition for Nature and People

Keep IT Cool

Winner for Build a Waste-Free World

Nominated by: Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation, Katapult Ocean

Keep IT Cool (KIC) addresses the challenge of food spoilage by providing sustainable, localised refrigeration systems that help small farmers and fishers preserve their produce. By installing solar-powered cold storage units where fish are landed, KIC significantly reduces spoilage

and waste by ensuring the catch stays fresh and managing its transport to market. With plans to grow into East Africa and beyond, KIC is now working to expand their activities in poultry, fruit and vegetables and aims to bring their solution to more communities.

“We are on a mission to revolutionise the food supply chain in East Africa. We are grateful for the recognition from The Earthshot Prize, and it is an important milestone for Keep IT Cool. “

“We will continue to enhance market access, reduce waste and build climate resilience for small-scale fish and poultry farmers throughout the region.”

Francis Nderitu Founder and Managing Director of Keep IT Cool

Advanced Thermovoltaic Systems

Winner for Build a Waste-Free World Nominated by: Herbert Smith Freehills LLP Advanced Thermovoltaic Systems (ATS) has developed a simple, safe and scalable technology to capture waste heat and convert it into electricity, offering a gamechanging solution for heavy industries like cement and steel production. These industries require extremely high temperatures, which generate vast amounts of waste heat that is typically lost. ATS’s technologies have the potential to save gigatonnes of CO2.

“At ATS, we are proud to lead the way in converting this waste into clean, usable electricity. Winning the 2024 Earthshot Prize underscores the transformative potential of our technology.”

“Tonight is a key moment for us as we focus on scaling up production in larger manufacturing facilities.”

Kelly Adams CEO, Advanced Thermovoltaic Systems

The five Winners of the 2024 Prize cohort were selected by Prince William and The Earthshot Prize Council, a diverse group of experts, advocates and individuals dedicated to championing urgent and innovative action to protect our planet. The Earthshot Prize Council is chaired by The Earthshot Prize Board of Trustees Chair, Dame Christiana Figueres, architect of the Paris Agreement.

Members of The Earthshot Prize Council include: His Royal Highness Prince William, Her Majesty Queen Rania Al Abdullah, José Andrés, Sir David Attenborough, Cate Blanchett, Ernest Gibson, Hindou Oumarou Ibrahim, Wanjira Mathai, Stella McCartney, Nemonte Nenquimo, Luisa Neubauer, Indra Nooyi, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and Naoko Yamazaki.

One-of-a-kind support

In addition to the five £1 million prizes supporting the growth of Winners’ solutions, each of the 15 Earthshot

The Earthshot Prize Council

Prize Finalists will receive dedicated mentorship, resources and technical support through the year-long Earthshot Prize Fellowship Programme

That support includes access to the Prize’s robust network of influential experts and partners, including The Earthshot Prize’s Global Alliance of Partners, comprised of some of the world’s largest businesses, donors, investors and environmental organisations committed to climate action.

Finalists will also have access to Launchpad, Earthshot’s bespoke online finance platform to matchmake Earthshot solutions to a growing community of members made up of mission-aligned donors and investors seeking to speed proven environmental solutions to scale.

The Earthshot Prize is already gearing up for the 2025 Earthshot Prize. Nominations for the Prize’s fifth cohort of innovative solutions and entrepreneurs are now open.

Plastics SA hosts global first: Self-employed material recycler training programme for waste pickers

Plastics SA has launched a pioneering Self-Employed Material Recycler Training Programme, marking a significant milestone in empowering South Africa’s waste pickers. Last year, 50,000 South Africans found an informal form of income and employment as waste pickers, collecting used plastics for recycling. The programme, a first of its kind globally, equips informal waste reclaimers with the skills they need to safely and efficiently manage their recycling efforts while improving their business acumen.

The training, a NQF Level 1 qualification, awards 26 credits and runs over five days, spread across a three-week period. In this pilot initiative, 20 learners in Johannesburg and 25 learners in KwaZulu-Natal were selected and sponsored to attend the programme, which took place concurrently in both regions. The training was made possible through the financial support of ExxonMobil, Polyco, Petco and Plastics SA and is a ground-breaking programme that is expected to expand globally. The South African pilot is just the beginning, with 2,000 informal waste sector workers set to benefit through a “train the trainer” approach. Following a review of this pilot, plans are in place to expand the programme to other countries.

The launch event saw attendance from key industry stakeholders and collaborators, including Bala Nengwhela, Specialist: Waste Management at SALGA; Belinda Booker, Enterprise Development Handover Support at Petco; Andiswa Siyengo, Control Environmental Officer at DFFE; and Kirtida Bhana, Head of Plastics SA’s Academy for Learning & Development.

Bhana emphasised the importance of tailored training for waste pickers: “This training covers a wide variety of topics that empower waste pickers to grow their businesses and ensure safer, healthier working conditions. The Self-Employed Material Recycler Training Programme focuses on several critical areas, including health and safety, waste handling, business management within the recycling economy, and strategies to maximise profits in a circular economy”.

The programme is also part of a broader initiative by ExxonMobil and the International Council of Chemical Associations (ICCA), aimed at improving workplace safety and conditions for informal sector workers globally. The training includes environmental awareness, financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and regulatory knowledge. ExxonMobil’s support extends to designing and executing the programme with local partners, targeting waste workers in countries with informal waste management systems.

Rik Poppe, Senior Sustainability Advisor at ExxonMobil, highlighted the programme’s significance: “ExxonMobil and the industry recognise the critical role of the informal sector. Plastic waste reclaimers often operate in rudimentary conditions, facing health risks, security challenges, and financial struggles. This training provides essential health and safety protocols, sorting techniques, and business skills to support a fair income and improve working conditions. It is through a multi-stakeholder approach — encompassing waste reclaimers, government, academia, and industry — that we will help create longterm change. This pilot programme will serve as a model for the rest of the world.”

For more information contact Kirtida.Bhana@plasticssa.co.za n

Building Climate Resilience in Agriculture and Agroprocessing: The Power of the Water-Energy Nexus

By Mchenge Nyoka, National Project Coordinator, UNIDO

In an era where climate change increasingly affects water and energy resources, the need for climate resilience in agriculture and agroprocessing has never been more pressing. South Africa, in particular, faces unique challenges due to severe water scarcity and fluctuating energy availability – two factors on which these sectors are heavily dependent. But within these challenges lies an opportunity to reshape the future. Through the lens of the Water-Energy Nexus, South Africa can harness the power of integrated solutions to build climate resilience in agriculture and agroprocessing.

The Water-Energy Nexus: A New Paradigm for Resilience

The relationship between water and energy is deeper than we often realise, especially in agriculture and agroprocessing. Agriculture is the largest consumer of freshwater in South Africa, with irrigation alone accounting for a staggering 62% of total freshwater use. Meanwhile, agroprocessing relies heavily on both water and energy, whether it is for milling, preservation, packaging, or refrigeration.

The interdependence of these resources means that addressing one without the other is futile. The Water-

Energy Nexus recognises this connection and advocates for a holistic approach that optimises both water and energy use simultaneously. It is not just about tackling one challenge at a time—it is about understanding how the two can work in harmony to build a sustainable future.

Embracing Innovation: Renewable Energy and Water Efficiency

Innovation is the heartbeat of resilience. For agriculture and agroprocessing, this means rethinking how we produce food, generate energy, and manage water.

Renewable energy is at the forefront of this transformation. Solar-powered irrigation systems, for example, are revolutionising water management by reducing dependence on the national power grid. Solar pumps and systems can provide water where it is needed most, especially in remote areas, while lowering energy costs and reducing carbon footprints. Beyond irrigation, biogas generated from agricultural waste offers another powerful solution, turning farm byproducts into a renewable energy source, reducing reliance on fossil fuels, and simultaneously addressing waste management.

Efficient water management practices are also essential. Drip irrigation, which minimises water waste and delivers moisture directly to plant roots, is a game-changer for water conservation in agriculture. Meanwhile, water recycling and reuse in agroprocessing facilities can drastically cut water consumption, reducing both costs and environmental impact.

Moreover, smart technologies, such as Internet of Things (IoT) sensors and automated systems, provide real-time data to optimise water and energy use. These systems enable farmers and agroprocessors to precisely manage resources, ensuring they are used where and when needed most, minimising waste, and improving productivity.

Cultivating a Culture of Sustainability

Technology alone cannot build climate resilience. It is the mindset, the culture, and the shared commitment to sustainability that drives true transformation.

For resilience to take root, we need to empower farmers and agroprocessors to become stewards of their resources. This means fostering a deeper understanding of the value of every drop of water and every kilowatt of energy used. It is about raising greater awareness that investing in sustainable practices today ensures a more productive, prosperous future tomorrow.

Capacity building is key. Through training programs and knowledge-sharing initiatives, farmers and processors can gain the skills they need to manage resources more efficiently. This can range from learning to operate advanced irrigation systems to understanding the intricacies of renewable energy solutions. With the right knowledge and tools, they can become champions of resilience, driving innovation and sustainability within their communities.

The Role of Partnerships and Policy

No single entity can build climate resilience alone. To truly succeed, we need collaborative efforts that bring together governments, industries, academia, and communities. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) play a key role in pooling

Mchenge Nyoka

resources and expertise to implement solutions for resilience. Policy frameworks are crucial in driving the adoption of water- and energy-efficient technologies, with governments providing incentives like tax breaks, subsidies, and standards for renewable energy and water efficiency. Strategic financing mechanisms, such as grants and low-interest loans, can help small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) access climateresilient technologies. Additionally, investing in research and development (R&D) is critical for developing climate-smart solutions, like drought-resistant crops and energy-efficient agroprocessing systems. Collaboration, financing, and R&D are key to ensuring the long-term sustainability and resilience of agriculture and agroprocessing.

The Path Forward: A Resilient and Sustainable Future

South Africa’s journey to a green and resilient economy is underway, and the application of integrated solutions— like those promoted by the Flanders-funded project on Strengthened Adaptation Capacity for a Green and Resilient Economy in South Africa, implemented by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) in collaboration with local stakeholders — can make a significant contribution to the country’s efforts to overcome its climate challenges. By embracing the Water-Energy Nexus, South Africa can not only address the vulnerabilities of water and energy insecurity but also pave the way for sustainable agricultural and agroprocessing sectors that support food security, economic growth, and environmental stewardship.

The time for action is now. By investing in renewable energy, optimising water use, and embracing innovation, we can transform the agricultural and agroprocessing sectors into resilient, sustainable powerhouses capable of weathering the challenges of a changing climate. Together, we can build a future where agriculture and agroprocessing not only survive but thrive, creating lasting benefits for people, communities, and the planet. The Water-Energy Nexus is more than just a concept— it is the key to unlocking a sustainable, prosperous, and climate-resilient future for South Africa’s agricultural and agroprocessing sectors and beyond. n

Mchenge Nyoka is a National Project Coordinator at the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) in South Africa, where he coordinates and manages energy projects focused on Sustainable Energy, Industrial Decarbonisation, and Climate Change Adaptation in industries. In this role, Mchenge is responsible for driving initiatives that align with UNIDO’s mandate to promote inclusive and sustainable industrial development, helping industries transition towards cleaner and more energy-efficient practices while adapting to the challenges posed by climate change.

Before joining UNIDO, Mchenge worked at the South African Department of Mineral Resources & Energy (DMRE), where he was involved in projects related to Energy Efficiency and Energy Management in the public sector. His work there contributed to the implementation of energy-saving measures and the promotion of sustainable energy practices across various government institutions, furthering South Africa’s efforts to enhance energy security and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Mchenge holds a Master of Engineering (MEng) degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of the Witwatersrand and a Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Pretoria. Through his work, Mchenge continues to play a significant role in fostering a low-carbon, climate-resilient industrial sector, contributing to both national and global goals for sustainable development.

CLIMATE AGENDA

A just energy transition is about promoting economic diversification, transformation and industrialisation in the renewable energy sector that empowers workers, marginalised communities and black businesses. n

Principles in South Africa’s Just Transition

South Africa’s just transition framework is a groundbreaking initiative that aims to achieve a fair and sustainable transition to a low-carbon economy. The framework is built on three core principles: distributive justice, restorative justice, and procedural justice

Distributive Justice: This principle focuses on ensuring a fair distribution of the risks and benefits of the transition. This includes equipping South Africans with skills, assets, and opportunities to participate in industries of the future, with a particular focus on impacted groups, the poor, women, people with disabilities, and the youth

Restorative Justice: This principle aims to address the historical damages inflicted on individuals, communities, and the environment. This includes acknowledging the health and environmental impacts of coal and other fossil fuelimpacted areas and supporting the constitutional rights of all South Africans to a healthy environment

Procedural Justice: This principle emphasises the importance of empowering workers, communities, and small businesses to define their own development pathways and livelihoods. This includes assisting communities to understand the transition, supporting worker and community organisations, and

collaborating with stakeholders through inclusive decision-making structures

South Africa’s just transition framework has been hailed as a model for other countries to follow. The framework’s adoption has been a result of years of collaboration between various stakeholders, including the government, business, labor, and civil society. n

South Africa’s Baseload Energy Challenge, Balancing Tradition with a Sustainable Future

In this thought leadership piece, Rob Morson, Partner at Pinsent Masons Johannesburg and London, addresses South Africa’s pressing energy crisis as the country transitions from aging coal-fired power plants to a more sustainable baseload energy system. He advocates for a balanced approach that incorporates nuclear energy, particularly through innovative Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), alongside natural gas and renewable sources.

South Africa faces a looming energy crisis, as its aging coal-fired power plants face inevitable retirement. This has prompted a debate on the country’s future baseload needs, with nuclear, natural gas, and renewable sources all under consideration. The Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) outlines a balanced approach using a mix of these sources, recognising that no single technology can solve the problem alone. However, significant challenges exist, such as the high upfront costs of nuclear, the finite nature of gas, and the intermittent nature of renewables.

Historically, coal has been the primary source of baseload power in South Africa, providing the steady, dependable energy needed to support industrial, commercial, and residential demands. However, with many coal plants nearing the end of their lifespan and the global transition away from fossil fuels, South Africa faces a unique challenge: how to maintain a reliable energy supply while transitioning to a cleaner, more sustainable energy system. This dilemma lies at the heart of the baseload debate, which centres around whether to invest in nuclear energy, natural gas, or renewable sources, each with its benefits and complexities.

The Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) for South Africa outlines four primary technologies for baseload energy: coal, gas, nuclear, and battery storage. Each has a role to play, with battery storage having the added benefit of balancing the intermittency of wind and solar generation.

Nuclear energy is often highlighted as a viable long-term solution for baseload stability. Its capacity for continuous energy output makes it a strong candidate to replace coal, especially in the context of South Africa’s commitment to decarbonisation. Nuclear power also offers a highcapacity factor, operating at maximum power for a greater percentage of the time compared to other sources. However, the potential hurdles for nuclear power are significant, including high upfront costs, fuel supply issues, and the longterm management of nuclear waste. Financing poses another considerable barrier, as the high initial investment required

Rob Morson, Partner at Pinsent Masons Johannesburg and London

especially in a capital-constrained economy, which relies heavily on private funds to deliver energy assets to the grid.

Despite these obstacles, nuclear energy should remain a critical component in South Africa’s long term energy solution, albeit not in the form of large scale nuclear plants. Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) present a more flexible and scalable solution, offering a less capital-intensive option with the possibility of deployment in regions across the country.

Natural gas presents itself as an attractive transitional option. Its relative affordability, lower carbon footprint compared to coal, and faster deployment times make it a practical choice for augmenting South Africa’s baseload. Gas power can serve as a flexible backup to intermittent renewables, and its lower emissions profile aligns with South Africa’s environmental goals. While gas can support South Africa’s short-term energy needs, it also has its challenges. The country’s gas infrastructure is still underdeveloped, and relying on gas would require substantial investments in both extraction and pipeline infrastructure.

Furthermore, natural gas is ultimately a finite resource and, like coal, carries environmental implications that run counter to South Africa’s long-term climate commitments. Nonetheless, gas can provide a much-needed buffer as renewable energy capacity continues to scale, supporting baseload stability until more sustainable options become fully viable.

The rapid expansion of renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar, has been instrumental in reducing emissions and driving the global shift toward cleaner energy. In South Africa, renewables are being deployed at an unprecedented rate due to decreasing costs, the country’s favourable climate conditions and the appetite of the private sector to take control of their energy security. However, renewable energy presents a challenge to baseload generation because of its inherent variability. Wind and solar power are dependent on weather conditions, making it impossible to provide a consistent, 24-hour energy supply without substantial storage solutions.

Battery storage is often proposed as the answer to this challenge, but the current capacity of grid-scale battery technology is insufficient to support South Africa’s baseload needs. Battery storage also requires significant investment and faces supply chain challenges. While advances in

storage technology are expected over time, relying solely on renewables and battery storage for baseload power remains impractical in the immediate future.

To achieve a reliable and sustainable baseload in South Africa, a balanced approach is necessary. This approach should incorporate a mix of nuclear (SMRs and microreactors in the longer term,), gas, and renewable energy sources, supported by ongoing developments in storage technology. Such a strategy not only addresses immediate energy security concerns but, if properly developed, will ensure that South Africa achieves its long term environmental and economic goals. A diversified energy portfolio provides the flexibility needed to adapt to future technological advances and shifts in resource availability.

The importance of policy and regulatory frameworks in this process cannot be overstated. Collaboration between the South African government and private sector is crucial to establish a clear and cohesive plan for the energy transition. This includes streamlining the regulatory process for nuclear and gas projects and investing in grid infrastructure to accommodate diverse energy sources. Transparent policies and a stable investment climate are essential to attracting the private investment needed to realise this vision.

South Africa’s impending baseload crisis highlights the importance of a balanced, diversified energy strategy. By integrating nuclear, gas, and renewable energy within a realistic and credible framework, South Africa can ensure a reliable baseload that meets current demands while also paving the way for sustainable energy security in the future. This approach requires not only technological innovation but also regulatory foresight and cross-sector collaboration to navigate the complex landscape of energy policy, investment, and environmental stewardship.

South Africa can shape an energy system that is both resilient and aligned with global sustainability standards. As the country confronts its energy challenges, a forward-thinking, balanced approach to baseload generation will be vital in ensuring energy security and supporting economic growth for future generations. And two last but important ingredients: honesty and realism. The solution cannot be willed to fruition by politicians. Talking around the issues, or cleverly avoiding them certainly won’t get South Africa there. n

Unlocking Hidden Gold

An estimated 20% of the African population is undernourished, with 57 million more people facing hunger since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, an estimated 868 million people experienced moderate to severe food insecurity in Africa in 2022, with over one-third of those facing severe food insecurity.

The key to resilient and thriving communities does not depend solely on external interventions but on recognising and leveraging the existing assets and capabilities within. “Through the Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) approach, we can mitigate social risks, safeguard the planet, and maximise economic sustainability in our projects,” says Amelia Visagie, Associate Design Director: Social Sustainability, Zutari

Previously known as Aurecon, Zutari was recently selected as the winner of the Members-at-Large Project of the Year category for their N2 Wild Coast Toll Road development project in the 2023 International Association for Public Participation (IAP2) Core Values Awards. Furthermore, Zutari also clinched an honourable mention in the International Project of the Year category at an event held in Australia. All this was achieved by employing the ABCD model.

“ABCD is a transformative approach that uncovers the hidden potential within communities – the ‘gold’ that fuels sustainable growth and development,” says Visagie. By using assets that are already present in the community, ABCD empowers individuals to drive positive change, create new opportunities, and build a more sustainable future. This approach sparks innovation, fosters collaboration, and cultivates a sense of ownership and agency, setting the stage for communities to achieve long-term success on their own terms.

On Zutari’s application of the ABCD model, Visagie shares, “We have developed a model, and it has been tried and tested all over Africa.” This model is linked to the UN Sustainable Development Goal and incorporates the International Association for Public Participation (IAP2) spectrum and the International Association for Community Development (IACD) methodology. The methodology is grounded in an appreciative rather than a needs-based approach.

ABCD produces low-hanging fruit that is beneficial for funders and communities. These benefits include:

• Enhanced community engagement: ABCD helps organisations actively involve local communities by leveraging their existing strengths, skills, and resources, leading to more sustainable and effective project outcomes.

• Stronger stakeholder relationships: By focusing on community assets and collaboration, clients can build stronger relationships with stakeholders, enhancing trust and buy-in.

• Increased social impact: ABCD fosters community ownership and engagement, resulting in more meaningful social impact and long-lasting change. It also opens access to new talent pools and opportunities for future employment as well as potential for skills development and career advancement.

• Cost-effectiveness: Utilising existing community resources and capacities can reduce project costs and reliance on external aid, making interventions more efficient and sustainable.

The key to resilient and thriving communities does not depend solely on external interventions but on recognising and leveraging the existing assets and capabilities within.

• “ABCD is a transformative approach that uncovers the hidden potential within communities – the ‘gold’ that fuels sustainable growth and development,” says Amelia. n

Amelia Visagie, Associate Design Director, Social Sustainability, Zutari

WINDABA 2024 was a premier wind energy conference held in Cape Town, South Africa. The event brought together key stakeholders, including professionals, policymakers, academics, government representatives, and civil society, to share expertise and knowledge on the African wind industry.

Key Highlights:

• Windaba Connect: A special networking session held on October 1, 2024, set the stage for the main conference.

• Conference Program: The conference featured a comprehensive program with expert speakers, panel discussions, and networking opportunities.

• Awards Ceremony: The SAWEA Industry Awards 2024 ceremony was held on October 3, 2024, to recognise and honor individuals and organisations contributing to the growth of the wind energy sector.

• Exhibition: The conference featured an exhibition showcasing the latest wind energy technologies, products, and services.

Recap: Windaba

2024

Themes and Focus Areas:

• Building Resilience Through Wind: Exploring novel models of collaboration across sectors to accelerate the transition to renewable energy sources.

• Innovation and Technology: Showcasing the latest wind energy technologies and innovations.

• Sustainable Development: Focusing on the role of wind energy in achieving sustainable development and mitigating climate change. n

Niveshen Govender, Chief executive officer SAWEA

Calling for investment in agrifood systems to tackle the climate crisis

At the global meeting in Azerbaijan, FAO raised agrifood solutions as key for addressing the climate crisis and supported the COP29 Presidency with important initiatives

Baku, Azerbaijan – The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) brought a critical message to the 2024 UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan: increased investment in agrifood systems is essential to address the climate crisis.

Over the two weeks of the international meeting and through events, initiatives and several publications, FAO emphasised that agrifood systems hold the solutions to tackling major interlinked challenges facing people and the planet, including climate change, biodiversity loss, land degradation, food insecurity, and poverty.

“The Paris Agreement and the Sustainable Development Goals are beyond reach without agrifood systems transformation”, underscored FAO Director-General QU Dongyu, the head of the FAO delegation to COP29.

The Finance COP

This COP, dubbed the “climate finance COP,” saw nations grappling with the establishment of a new global climate finance target (NCQG) to replace the expiring $100 billion goal. The final outcome acknowledged the need for vastly increased investments even if it did not lock in the full investments that will likely be needed. Aligning with this, FAO’s presence and inputs at COP29 focused not just on the quantity of finance, but also on where that finance needs to be directed to have the greatest climate impact.

Over a series of high-level events and bilateral meetings with world leaders and UN representatives, QU Dongyu and FAO experts called for increased investment in agrifood systems transformation, emphasising the need for these systems to be prioritised in multilateral environmental agreements and fully integrated into national planning processes.

During the World Leaders Summit, FAO Director-General QU Dongyu was a prominent voice, advocating for the importance of investing in agrifood systems in addressing climate change.

At an event where panelists discussed the importance of Green Climate Fund (GCF) investments to support adaptation in vulnerable and fragile contexts, Qu stressed the urgent need for increased financing and investment. He highlighted examples of recently approved GCF projects in Iraq and Somalia led by FAO, emphasising the need to support fragile and conflict-affected countries where the impacts of climate change are most severe.

In a High-level Party event, Qu highlighted the alarming rise in global hunger, exacerbated by conflict, climate change, and economic crises, and called for greater investment in adaptation and resilience-building in these vulnerable regions. He urged countries to integrate agrifood systems into their national climate plans and prioritise them in multilateral environmental agreements, ensuring that Nationally

Determined Contributions (NDCs) reflect the full potential of climate action in this sector.

In support of the Director General’s messaging, FAO highlighted The triple gap in finance for agrifood systems, a new FAO report produced in collaboration with the ClimateShot Investor Coalition. The report revealed a significant funding gap in the sector, requiring $1.1 trillion annually to align with climate goals. This figure dwarfs current investment levels and highlights the need for increased financing to transition to sustainable and resilient agrifood systems.

Similarly, a complementary FAO analysis on climate-related development finance to agrifood systems revealed an increase in climate-related development finance allocated to these systems in 2022, reaching $29 billion. While this marks a recovery from previous years, the report explains that current finance levels are still insufficient to drive the necessary transformation of the sector for climate resilience and sustainable development.

Elevating agrifood systems on the agenda FAO highlighted the urgent need to scale up the implementation and uptake of agrifood system solutions by enabling policies, innovation, and technologies and ensuring these solutions reach smallholder farmers and producers.

In this context, the Organisation worked closely with the COP29 Presidency and other member countries to prioritise agrifood systems in their action agenda. This included a comprehensive program on November 19th, designated as Food, Agriculture and Water Day, and the launch of the Baku Harmoniya Climate Initiative for Farmers

The Baku Harmoniya Climate Initiative for Farmers aims to help farmers navigate the numerous initiatives and programs dedicated to supporting climate-resilient agrifood systems transformation. The initiative will serve as an aggregator, bringing together various initiatives, coalitions, networks, and partnerships to empower farmers, villages, and rural communities, fostering collaboration and maximising impact. FAO, the COP29 Presidency and the Ministry of Agriculture signed an agreement to carry Harmoniya forward through the FAST Partnership

The FAST Partnership also convened at COP29. The Ministerial meeting highlighted the need for increased financial support for vulnerable farmers and emphasised the importance of collaborative initiatives like Harmoniya. The event also served as a platform for countries and organisations to announce

new commitments and partnerships aimed at strengthening agrifood systems in the face of climate change.

Kaveh Zahedi, Director of the FAO Office of Climate Change, Biodiversity and Environment, moderated the high-level meeting. He expressed concerns about the “downward trajectory” of finance allocated to the food and agriculture sector. He commended FAO’s in-country support programmes such as SCALA, and the Organisation’s role in supporting countries to access funds from the Global Enviromental Facility (GEF) and the GCF. Zahedi also underscored that global coordination platforms such as the FAST Partnership and Harmoniya are all geared towards supporting countries in financing and building the resilience and sustainability of their agrifood systems.

FAO will also continue to support countries in the implementation of their climate actions agreed in the COPs and the necessary just transition. This includes assisting them in implementing existing agreements through the official United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) process and supporting national climate planning processes like Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and National Adaptation Plans (NAPs). This is especially crucial as countries prepare to submit their updated NDCs, their national climate action plans, early next year.

With the operationalisation of the “loss and damage” fund and final agreement on Article 6 of the Paris Agreement dealing with climate markets, FAO’s continued support will be essential for countries to ensure increased investments in agriculture and food systems that can bring climate adaptation, mitigation, sequestration solutions alongside food security.

Promoting agrifood system solutions

On Food, Agriculture and Water Day at COP29, FAO spearheaded a series of events. These included discussions on science and innovation for resilient food systems and highlevel dialogues on financing agrifood system transformation and enhancing NDC ambition. FAO’s efforts underscored the need for increased investment, collaboration, and policy action to support sustainable agriculture and food security in the face of climate change.

The Food and Agriculture Pavilion, jointly hosted by FAO and CGIAR at COP29 in Baku, served as a dynamic hub for showcasing the critical role of agrifood systems in climate action. Inaugurated by FAO Director-General, the pavilion acted as a platform for knowledge exchange and collaborative action, featuring events and discussions on topics like integrating agrifood systems into NDCs and voluntary carbon markets. It also highlighted COP presidency initiatives like the FAST Partnership

Agrifood systems in Nationally Determined Contributions: global analysis: The new FAO analysis of NDCs revealed that while most countries prioritise agrifood systems in their climate action plans, significant gaps remain in mitigation, adaptation, and financing. The study stresses the urgent need to address these gaps, particularly by increasing investments in sustainable agriculture and closing the emissions gap in the livestock sector. FAO emphasises the potential of agrifood systems as climate solutions and urges countries to enhance their NDCs to fully realise this potential.

Climate technologies for agrifood systems transformation: The report highlights the need for robust technology assessments to underpin climate technology identification for agrifood systems transformation that addresses all stages of agrifood value chains. This needs to be supported by capacitybuilding programmes, targeted financing and fed into the ongoing climate policy process.

United Nations Global Nitrous Oxide Assessment: A new UNEP-FAO report revealed that rising nitrous oxide emissions are jeopardising efforts to limit global warming to 1.5°C. The report highlights the urgent need for action to curb these emissions, primarily from agriculture, to protect the ozone layer and human health. It emphasises the potential for significant emissions reductions through sustainable nitrogen management and calls for a comprehensive strategy to address this potent greenhouse gas.

Bridging nature and climate through protection of primary forests with high ecological integrity: This technical brief highlights the vital role of primary forests in achieving climate and biodiversity goals. The brief emphasises the importance of conserving these forests, which store vast amounts of carbon and support biodiversity, while also acknowledging the threats they face. FAO also calls for increased recognition of Indigenous communities’ role in forest stewardship and for innovative financing mechanisms to support their efforts and ensure the protection of these critical ecosystems.

Activity book- livestock and climate change: A new activity book for children and pre-teens that explores the role of livestock in human communities and their impact on the environment, including their contribution to greenhouse gas emissions. With engaging illustrations and activities, the book aims to educate young people about the complex relationship between livestock and climate change, encouraging them to become informed and engaged in creating a sustainable future.

Looking ahead

COP29 in Baku concluded with a strong emphasis on increasing financial support for developing countries to combat climate change. A key achievement was the commitment by developed nations to triple their annual financial aid to $300 billion by 2035, alongside a collaborative effort to mobilise a total of $1.3 trillion per year by 2035.

Countries also agreed on the rules for a UN-backed global carbon market. This market will facilitate the trading of carbon credits, incentivising countries to reduce emissions

and invest in climate-action projects. COP29 also prioritised transparency in climate reporting and adaptation strategies, particularly for least developed countries. While these agreements signify progress, continued efforts are crucial to address remaining challenges and ensure these commitments translate into tangible action.

COP29 also saw the successful progress of the dedicated official track under the four-year Sharm El Sheikh Joint Work on implementation of climate action on agriculture and food security (SJWA), a collaborative process FAO has been supporting since 2017.

While the SJWA is ongoing, COP29 facilitated increased visibility for the initiative, prompting greater engagement from stakeholders and emphasising a shift towards implementing the framework. This included translating plans into concrete actions on the ground, such as promoting climate-resilient practices, improving water management, and enhancing early warning systems for farmers.

Critically, COP29 fostered discussions on integrating the SJWA with initiatives like the Loss and Damage fund to address climate impacts on agriculture in vulnerable countries. This fund, newly operationalised at COP29, aims to provide financial assistance to countries impacted by climate change.

While the marathon negotiations may not have delivered everything that was hoped for, FAO and partners maintained the strong momentum around the role that agriculture and food systems must play if we are to achieve the goals of the Paris Agreement and a just transition.

Looking ahead, COP30 in Brazil promises to be a critical milestone, hosted for the first time in the Amazon rainforest. This unique setting will likely bring a heightened focus on issues at the nexus of climate change and agrifood systems. COP30 also represents a crucial deadline for nations to present their strengthened NDCs, demonstrating a renewed commitment to the goals of the Paris Agreement. FAO stands ready to collaborate fully with the incoming Brazilian presidency to ensure the success of this vital conference and drive ambitious climate action. n

Exploring the Green Economy’s Role in

Sustainable Development

By Otar Antia

Green Economy Transition Expert at the Investors Council of Georgia, Otar Antia is a well-established, dynamic, and devoted professional who has achieved considerable success in managing large-scale projects. With over a decade of broad experience of working for government entities to boost the entrepreneurial ecosystem, green business opportunities, and green transportation, he has demonstrated a deep understanding of, and a strong commitment to, the green economy.

Q: How do you perceive the role of the green economy in fostering sustainable development and addressing environmental challenges?

In general, the green economy plays a crucial role when it comes to nurturing sustainable development and tackling environmental issues. Its principles are focused on combatting climate change and green economy solutions are both commercially viable and environmentally sound. Moreover, a green economy is one that advocates for the efficient use of resources, waste reduction, and minimising negative impacts on the environment. It also supports the utilisation of renewable energy sources, thus leading countries toward greater energy security, while ensuring the creation of green jobs, equity, and more social inclusion.

Q: What challenges do developing countries face in the transition to a green economy?

The biggest such challenges are the limited availability of relevant financing and the lack of access to finance for

businesses. Specifically, there aren’t enough support schemes and incentives to stimulate businesses to adopt sustainable practices in developing nations. Apart from financial constraints, another significant problem is a lack of awareness about transitioning to a green economy or even sustainability as a whole.

It is thus crucial to dispel misconceptions among businesses who see the transition to a green economy as a burden, and instead convince them that this development marks a new and promising opportunity for growth.

Q: How do you think government policies and regulations can support this transition?

Governments have a vital role in steering their countries towards a green economy. In particular, key areas for government action include establishing climate-friendly laws and regulations, introducing Incentives for businesses, stimulating green infrastructure investments, and promoting cooperation on an international level.

Q: How can businesses and the private sector contribute to this process?

A successful transition to a green economy requires the engagement of multiple stakeholders. Of course, relying solely on public finance is insufficient to achieve ambitious environmental objectives. Instead, it is crucial to attract private capital, through implementing mechanisms that enhance investment prospects. Furthermore, the importance of the private sector in this process is widely acknowledged and encouraged across the globe.

Similarly, businesses are of central importance when it comes to driving innovation and investing in research and development to explore green technologies and sustainable business practices.

Moreover, the private sector as a whole can influence consumer behavior and drive demand for sustainable goods and services, thereby enhancing the process of market transformation. Last but not least, in my opinion, businesses can assume a tremendously impactful role in policy advocacy, ensuring the development of regulations that support sustainable development and incentivise green investments.

Q: What role does international cooperation play in advancing sustainability goals in the global economy?

Foremost concerns regarding the transition to greater sustainability and green practices are the shortage of public financial resources to attract private capital, coupled with a deficit in knowledge and experience. If a transition of this sort is to succeed, the need for active international cooperation is undeniable. OF note, it plays a significant role in mobilising relevant financial resources for large-scale green projects, while also facilitating the exchange of knowledge, information, and best practices. n

Otar Antia, Green Economy Transition Expert, Investors Council of Georgia

Minerals Council South Africa contribution on Eskom and Transnet

The Minerals Council responded decisively and assertively to the crises in energy and transport, providing senior and skilled leaders to collaborate and collectively find solutions to stabilise the services provided by Eskom and Transnet for the mining industry, the broader economy and society.

Mining’s contribution to South Africa’s GDP in 2023 was a significant R440.8 billion and it employs more than 470,000 people. Commodity exports contributed more than 50% to the value of total South African merchandise exports, with platinum group metals, coal, gold and iron ore accounting for about 80% of the country’s commodity export revenue in 2023.

The mining industry is by far the largest user of rail to move coal, chrome, iron ore and manganese to the ports. Through the mining, processing, smelting and refining of minerals, the sector is a major electricity consumer. For this reason, senior present and former mining executives have been deployed to the National Energy Crisis Committee (NECOM) and the National Logistics Crisis Committee (NLCC).

The collaborative response between business through BUSA and Business for South Africa and government through the Presidency, several government departments, and the leadership of state-owned companies was a further relationship milestone since COVID-19 in 2020.

The appointment of new Eskom leadership at the board and executive level has facilitated participation of business to work with government and the power utility to stabilise electricity generation and increase supply as the Government of National Unity’s initiatives to grow the economy and create gather momentum.

The Minerals Council is encouraged by the significant improvement in electricity supply from Eskom due to reductions in unplanned outages and an improved energy availability factor, which have led to four months of uninterrupted electricity supply, a critically important development for the economy. The work done through NECOM and the Eskom Board and Executive management is a leading example of the positive impact that can be achieved for the economy and broader society through partnership and collaboration between the private and public sectors.

Moreover, the lifting of the cap on embedded energy generation in the private sector and regulatory reforms underway are creating a vibrant energy generation environment which will provide South Africa with the energy security it needs as we strive for inclusive economic growth and job creation.

In response to the energy crisis, the mining industry is leading in the private sector in investments in renewable energy generation. This investment is a critical risk response strategy, demonstrating the prevalence of the business case for investing in renewable energy while supporting the national efforts in energy security and the response to climate change.

Based on data from Operational Vulindlela, the private sector’s pipeline consists of of more than 130 utility-scale renewable energy projects. These projects will have capacity of about 22,500MW or 22.5GW, equivalent to more than half of the installed capacity of Eskom. The spending on these projects will be about R390 billion.

The mining industry accounts for about 70% of the projects, accounting for around 90 projects with a capacity of 15.8GW. The sector will invest R275 billion as it decarbonises mining operations and production of many of the minerals South Africa and the world needs in the transition to a low-carbon future. Mining matters in the transition to a low-carbon future.

These are remarkable numbers for the private sector considering President Cyril Ramaphosa only scrapped the cap of 100MW on embedded electricity generation in July 2022

Changes to the Transnet Board and Executive management as well as at Transnet Freight Rail set the stage for constructive private sector engagement to urgently stabilise rail and port performance, arresting the decline in railed tonnages and returning the network to nameplate capacity and greater private sector participation.

The mining industry, most notably the coal sector through the Richards Bay Coal Terminal, has invested tens of million of rands in providing security to the Northern Corridor railway line as well as assisting TFR procure spares for idled locomotives.

After peaking at 226 million tonnes in 2017/18, the tonnages railed by Transnet deteriorated to 149.5 million tonnes in 2022/23. The work done by the NLCC, along with the new Transnet Board and Executive have helped to arrest the decline, with tonnages railed picking up slightly to 152 million tonnes in 2023/24.

As part of its recovery plan, Transnet is targeting a more notable improvement to 170 million tonnes in 2024/25. The Minerals Council and its members are active participants in assisting Transnet reach, if not exceed, the target.

The cooperative relationships between the Minerals Council and both Eskom and Transnet bode well for the performance of both the economy and the mining industry as it repositions for a commodity cycle upturn and investment opportunities in critical minerals. A business environment of no load shedding and improved Transnet operational performance will inspire a pathway to real GDP growth in South Africa to above 2% per annum.

These constraints must be eliminated if South Africa is to play a meaningful role, both at home and abroad, in the supply of critical minerals. We cannot afford to lose this unique opportunity, which will unlock investment, inclusive growth and job creation, skills development, taxes and infrastructure for the benefit of all South Africans. n

Just Energy Transition Framework

Energy Skills Roadmap as well as the Just Energy Transition Framework that support the Energy and Water SETA.

The energy skills roadmap and the just energy transition framework are crucial components in supporting the Energy and Water Sector Education and Training Authority (EWSETA) in South Africa.

Energy Skills Roadmap

The energy skills roadmap is a comprehensive framework that outlines the skills required to support the energy sector’s transition to a low-carbon economy . The roadmap identifies key skills gaps and provides recommendations for addressing these gaps through education, training, and development programs.

Just Energy Transition Framework

The just energy transition framework is a critical component of South Africa’s energy transition strategy. The framework aims to ensure that the transition to a low-carbon economy is just, equitable, and inclusive. The framework provides a set of principles and guidelines for ensuring that the energy transition is managed in a way that minimises negative impacts on workers, communities, and the environment.

Key Components of the Just Energy Transition Framework

Some of the key components of the just energy transition framework include:

• Social Dialogue: Ensuring that all stakeholders, including workers, communities, and civil society organisations, are engaged in the energy transition process.

• Skills Development: Providing training and development programs to support workers in transitioning to new roles in the low-carbon economy.

• Economic Diversification: Encouraging economic diversification to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and create new economic opportunities.

• Environmental Sustainability: Ensuring that the energy transition is managed in a way that minimises negative impacts on the environment.

Overall, the energy skills roadmap and the just energy transition framework are critical components of South Africa’s energy transition strategy. By providing a comprehensive framework for skills development and ensuring a just and equitable transition, these frameworks can help support the EWSETA in its mission to develop the skills required to support the energy sector’s transition to a low-carbon economy. n

Towards an Inclusive,

Just Transition

EWSETA is spearheading transformational skills development in energy, water, and beyond.

Under the gathering storm of climate change and its attendant hazards, the future of South Africa depends on achieving a Just Energy Transition (JET), defined by the International Labour Organization (ILO) as: "Greening the economy in a way that is as fair and inclusive as possible to everyone concerned, creating decent work opportunities and leaving no one behind."

Given South Africa's historical dependence on fossil fuels and the socio-economic importance of fossil fuel-related jobs, as well as the country's disproportionate contribution to greenhouse gas emissions, this appears to be a daunting task. Fortunately, South Africa has a plan to turn things around – the Just Energy Transition

Investment Plan (JET IP), with US$8.5 billion slated to be mobilised between 2023 and 2027. This catalytic financing is intended to leverage a much greater level of resources from both private and public sources. A brighter future beckons.

Without a skilled and capable workforce, no JET investment plan, however nuanced, can succeed. This is where the Energy & Water Sector Education Training Authority (EWSETA) comes in.

According to EWSETA, CEO Mpho Mookapele, EWSETA has a clearly defined role: "To ensure there's a capable workforce in the energy and water sectors."

Our purpose is to ensure we have a capable energy and water sector from the ground up, all the way to the planning and leadership level, says Mookapele.

This sense of purpose is reflected in the projects and programmes that EWSETA has been running over the past few years.

A prime example is the Just Energy Transition Learner and Lecturer Development Support Programme. Launched in May this year under the auspices of the SETA Integrated High Impact Programme (SIHIP) and in partnership with the Chinese Culture and International Education Exchange

Mpho Mookapele, CEO, Energy & Water Sector Education Training Authority (EWSETA)

Centre (CCIEEC), this initiative sent 54 learners and six lecturers from six TVET colleges in KZN, Limpopo, Eastern Cape, Northern Cape, and Gauteng to China for a year-long experiential learning programme on solar PV manufacture.

The learners will return with vital work experience at a time when TVET undergraduates are struggling to find internships in South Africa. The lecturers will be able to enrich their colleges' curricula, laying the foundation for the development of production lines for solar panels, inverters, and lithium batteries. This will create additional revenue streams for the TVET Colleges and enhance South Africa's global competitiveness in the renewables market.

To make the programme happen, EWSETA joined forces with the Construction Education and Training Authority (CETA) and the Food and Beverage Manufacturing SETA (FoodBev SETA).

This reflects the importance of partnerships to EWSETA's operating model. Mookapele explains:

"JET requires several parties to unite behind a common agenda. The energy and water sectors don't exist in isolation. Energy and water are consumed by the food and beverage, construction, ICT, and other sectors. We ask ourselves: How do we build an ecosystem that caters to the needs of different sectors? Climate change affects every single industry, so we look for international and local partners with the same mindset and objective of building a capable workforce for their sectors – in this case, food and beverage and construction."

Mookapele continues: "We're not leading the transition – that's the job of the sector, in its public and private modes. Our job is to understand both sectors and how we can work together to ensure they are capable. As an organisation, we needed to position and structure ourselves properly. When this realisation dawned, we had to change our operating model as a SETA. A SETA is an authority, so you need to be in the right rooms and have relationships with the right people."

Where local capacity is lacking, EWSETA looks for international partners. For example, the innovative Hydrogen Fuel Cell System Practitioner skills programme, developed in partnership with the Chemical Industries Education and Training Authority (Chieta), provides training in skills required by the hydrogen value chain.

A preliminary EWSETA study in partnership with SANEDI and DSI

“ The power of partnerships is readily apparent in other EWSETA programmes, which include apprenticeships, internships, learnerships, and skills programmes. ”

identified what skills would be required. However, at present, there's no industry in South Africa to serve as a basis for skills development. As a result, Mookapele explains, "We looked to where there was already a qualification: Singapore. We identified which aspects were relevant to South Africa, localised them, tested to see if they worked, and then developed them into a South African skills programme."

No Regrets

A notable aspect of EWSETA's modus operandi is a "no regrets" approach to skills development. This means ensuring that precious funding is not wasted on training people for jobs in industries that never materialise. Mookapele explains, "One of the lessons we've learned is that you prepare skills when there's a policy, but when decisions to implement the policy are not made, you've got all these people who have been trained, but there are no jobs." However, not developing training runs the risk of being caught flat-footed when opportunity does arise. Mookapele elaborates: "South Africa's draft Renewable Energy Master Plan includes the potential for the manufacture of components, but we're not waiting for the plan to be rolled out. If we lag behind, we'll have the same problem we had when renewable energy started in South Africa – we didn't have the skills, so they had to be imported. Our solution is upskilling: Equipping already qualified people with additional skills, as a top-up to what they already have, so that when a new industry comes, they are ready, but they don't have to rely solely on the skill you give them."

The Right Relationships

The power of partnerships is readily apparent in other EWSETA programmes, which include apprenticeships, internships, learnerships, and skills programmes.

For example, the Renewable Energy Specialisation Skills Development Programme, in collaboration with Power Africa, a U.S. Government initiative coordinated by USAID, is equipping 100 unemployed women and 15 TVET lecturers in Mpumalanga with renewable energy skills.

The Energy Efficiency Demand Side Management (EEDSM) programme, in partnership with the South African National Energy Development Institute (SANEDI), promotes energy efficiency and demand reduction, and supports research into emerging technologies.

Under the Solar Mamas programme, in partnership with the FICCI Ladies Organisation (FLO) (the women's wing of the Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce & Industry), 22 engineering students from rural areas in South Africa are being trained in the installation, maintenance, and repair of solar panels and solar lighting, at the Barefoot University in Rajasthan, India.

Then there's EWSETA's prestigious Women Leading in Energy Sector (WLES) bursary programme, in collaboration with Eskom and Duke Corporate Education, in which executive and middle management professionals from Eskom, TVET Colleges, and SMMEs participated in a global immersion experience in the USA and Germany this year.

The training curriculum covered personal leadership development, strategic operations, sustainable economics, work-life balance, advocacy, and building supportive networks, complemented by academic modules on entrepreneurship, renewable energy trends, sustainable solutions, and policy. The graduation of these 105 women in August was hailed as "a significant stride towards gender inclusivity and empowerment."

"A few years ago, as part of our strategic research, we found that a significant percentage of the workforce is male, particularly at senior management level. As a result, we launched a strategy to drive meaningful economic inclusion," explains Mookapele.

This goes far beyond mere employment: "Women need to be making decisions," says Mookapele.

"Women are being educated as engineers, but they are not reaching boardrooms and leadership roles. So we started a women's leadership programme four years ago with the

water sector, then moved on to the energy sector. The idea is not just to develop technical capability, but also to develop leadership capability, with an understanding of the economy, people management, selfmanagement, ESG, finance within the JET space, and the different facets of climate change, so we build a holistic skill set."

In recognition of this commitment to gender equality and women's empowerment, EWSETA received the "Women Empowerment in the Workplace" award (Government sub-category) at the 12th Gender Mainstreaming Awards, held on 31 October at the Vodacom Dome in Midrand.

Let a Thousand Flowers Bloom Mookapele would like this culture of inclusivity to flourish throughout the country. "We're not just training for the sake of training – we're using

JET IP at a Glance

funding to build the country. Beyond the excitement about JET, we've built something that South Africa really needs. The culture I'd like to see take root, from schools to the private sector, is one that is pro-South Africa: Companies that build capability for South Africa, public sector programmes that advance South Africa's needs. We need to position ourselves for South Africa first and be for the country before we can expect others to do so. My message on every platform and to the South African child has consistently been: Let's build a better South Africa." n

• The five-year JET Investment Plan (2023-2027) is expected to occur through the following interventions:

• Creating quality jobs in new sectors like electric vehicles, green hydrogen, renewable energy, and manufacturing

• Increasing energy security and ending load shedding through a massive rollout of new, sustainable energy sources

• Addressing the risks of climate change and positioning South Africa to be an essential global player in the green economy of the future

• Boosting economic growth through more than R1 trillion of new investment in the South African economy.

A Culture of Inclusivity

Clearly, inclusivity lies at the heart of the EWSETA ethos.

The Energy sector is in a dynamic transition that is constantly evolving, continuous learning is your key to sustainable growth and unrivaled success. Whether you’re already a qualified professional or aspiring to be one, keeping your skills up to date is non-negotiable

Join the ranks of industry trailblazers by embracing the latest advancements, trends, and best practices that drive the energy and water sector forward.

IGNITE YOUR EXPERTISE, ELEVATE YOUR JOB PERFORMANCE, AND LEAD THE PACK!

WITHIN THE SECTOR WE SERVE, EWSETA

• Registers and establishes learning programmes

• Approve WSPs and ATRs

• Disburses mandatory and discretionary grants

• Monitors and quality assures education and training

• Promotes learnerships, internships, apprenticeships and other training programmes

To meet the pressing skills development needs of the energy and water sector requires co-operation and input from all sector role players. We encourage employers in the sector to be part of the solution.

22 Wellington Road Parktown, Johannesburg South Africa

011 274-4700

info@ewseta.org.za

Working towards sustainability goals and a just energy transition.

Dr. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, South Africa’s Minister of Electricity and Energy, has been a strong advocate for a just energy transition in Africa. He emphasises that this transition is not only essential for mitigating climate change but also for ensuring energy security and economic development.

According to Dr. Ramokgopa, the just energy transition in South Africa is expected to be an expensive process, and the country cannot finance it alone, He has called for international cooperation and investment to support Africa’s energy transition.

Dr. Ramokgopa has also highlighted the importance of a just energy transition that prioritises the needs of workers, communities, and the environment. He has emphasised the need for inclusive decision-making and social dialogue to ensure that the transition is fair and equitable.

Some of the key aspects of Dr. Ramokgopa’s vision for a just energy transition in Africa include:

• Decarbonisation: Transitioning away from fossil fuels and towards renewable energy sources.

• Energy Access: Ensuring that all Africans have access to reliable and affordable energy.

• Job Creation: Creating new job opportunities in the renewable energy sector and supporting workers in the fossil fuel industry to transition to new roles.

• Environmental Sustainability: Ensuring that the energy transition is environmentally sustainable and does not harm local ecosystems.

Overall, Dr. Ramokgopa’s vision for a just energy transition in Africa prioritises social justice, environmental sustainability, and economic development.

Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, Minister of Electricity and Energy Republic of South Africa

Q&A

Q: What is the current status of South Africa’s energy transition, and what are the key challenges that need to be addressed?

A: “South Africa has made significant progress in transitioning to a low-carbon economy, with a target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 42% by 2025. However, we still face significant challenges, including the need to decommission old coal-fired power plants, invest in new renewable energy infrastructure, and ensure a just transition for workers and communities affected by the transition.”

Q: How does the Just Energy Transition framework prioritise social justice and equity?

A: “The Just Energy Transition framework prioritises social justice and equity by ensuring that the transition is fair, inclusive, and benefits all South Africans. This includes providing support for workers in the fossil fuel industry to transition to new roles, investing in education and training programs, and ensuring that communities affected by the transition have a voice in decision-making processes.”

Q: What role can international cooperation and investment play in supporting South Africa’s energy transition?

A: “International cooperation and investment will be critical in supporting South Africa’s energy transition. We need

investment in new renewable energy infrastructure, as well as support for research and development in clean energy technologies. We also need international cooperation to share best practices, technologies, and expertise in the energy transition.”

Q: How will the Just Energy Transition framework ensure that the energy transition is environmentally sustainable?

A: “The Just Energy Transition framework prioritises environmental sustainability by ensuring that the transition to a low-carbon economy is done in a way that minimises harm to the environment. This includes investing in renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency, and promoting sustainable land use practices.”

Q: What are the key lessons that other African countries can learn from South Africa’s experience with the Just Energy Transition?

A: “One of the key lessons that other African countries can learn from South Africa’s experience is the importance of a just and inclusive transition. This includes prioritising social justice and equity, ensuring that the transition is environmentally sustainable, and promoting international cooperation and investment. Additionally, it’s essential to have a clear and comprehensive framework that guides the transition and ensures that all stakeholders are engaged and involved.” n

Investing for a climate resilient Africa

Africa’s Green Economy Summit serves as a pivotal platform for advancing the conversation on sustainable development across the continent, particularly in light of the recent discussions at COP29. As global leaders gather to address climate change, Africa is poised to lead the way in implementing green economy initiatives that harness renewable energy, promote sustainable agriculture and create resilient urban environments.

Over 50 climate startups and investor-ready projects valued at over $2bn will once again have the opportunity to meet investors at the upcoming Africa’s Green Economy Summit (AGES), as it returns to Cape Town for its third edition from 19 to 21 February 2025.

The event brings together global investors, African government leaders and private sector stakeholders to foster sustainable economic development across the continent. It is aimed at bridging crucial investment gaps, particularly in sectors driving Africa’s net-zero ambitions, such as renewable energy, green transport, waste management, water infrastructure, sustainable agriculture, green industrialisation, digitalisation and resilient cities.

Since its launch in 2023, the event has quickly developed a reputation for connecting global capital to developing African projects and so accelerate the green economy on the continent. From entrepreneurial start-ups and scale-ups to national-scale infrastructure projects, AGES introduces project owners with a network of global investors who fund opportunities to support Africa’s journey to a just and inclusive green economy.

What to expect at AGES 2025:

The theme for the 2025 event, “Building a Climate Resilient Africa: Catalysing Investment and Innovation in the Green and Blue Economies,” aligns with the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) for climate finance. This framework provides financial resources for mitigation, adaptation and lossand-damage measures, particularly for vulnerable nations, supporting the event’s focus on resilience and sustainable development across Africa. Merging discussions around the blue and the green economies is crucial as it will play a significant role in advancing the broader sustainability agenda. The African Union has identified blue ocean economy development as a priority goal towards achieving the aspiration of “A prosperous Africa based on inclusive growth and

Green reforms case studies

Sustainable agriculture is another new focus area; something AGES advisory board member Hennie van der Merwe, CEO of the Agribusiness Development Corporation (ADC), is very excited about: “I think agriculture and the green economy are synonymous, and Africa being an agribusiness-driven continent with huge potential, I think it’s an overstated fact that agriculture and sustainable agriculture and the circular economy are all terms that are synonymous and I think should be featured at the summit.”

Speaker highlights in the AGES2025 programme include:

✔ Maxwell Gomera, Resident Representative of UNDP South Africa and Director of the Africa Sustainable Finance Hub, Africa region

✔ Barbara Buchner, Global Managing Director, Climate Policy Initiative, USA

✔ Carl Roothman, Chief Executive Officer, Sanlam Investment Group, South Africa

✔ Andrew Johnstone, Chief Executive Officer, Climate Fund Managers, South Africa

✔ Hubert Danso, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer, Africa Investor (Ai) Group, South Africa

✔ Kavita Sinha, Head of Private Sector Finance, Green Climate Fund, Korea

✔ Geordin Hill-Lewis, Mayor, City of Cape Town, South Africa

African countries and the African Union will also have the opportunity to present how the continent is developing effective policy mechanism to capitalise on climate finance by opening regional and national markets. They will showcase recent reforms and the lessons learnt from these. Featured in this session are:

✔ Mallé Fofana, Head and Africa Regional Director, Global Green Growth Institute, Côte d’Ivoire (session chairman)

✔ Harsen Nyambe, Director of Sustainable Environment and Blue Economy, African Union, Ethiopia

✔ James Mnyupe, Presidential Economic Advisor and Hydrogen Commissioner, Government of the Republic of Namibia

✔ Seewraj Nundlall, Director, Economic Development Board, Mauritius

Other conference session highlights include:

• Power pools: A regional case study

• Financial instruments for nature and biodiversity conservation: The good, the bad and the ugly

• Climate finance: What’s new and what’s next?

• Women in Green Economy breakfast session

Targeted workshops will bring together smaller groups for the following topics:

• Navigating the climate founders’ journey

• Dialogue on CBAM: Challenges and opportunities for African industries

• Gender finance: Financing growth for women entrepreneurs

• Debt-for-nature swaps: Exploring government-private sector collaboration and investment opportunities in nature and biodiversity

• Mobilising climate adaptation finance in Africa: Strategies and partnerships for DFIs and investors

Pitch-perfect stages

Hot on the heels of the hugely successful project pitch stage which formed the pulsing heart of the 2024 event earlier this year, and due to the huge supply and demand of projects and investors keen to grow their money in the green economy, AGES2025 will return with two startup stages—one for Startups and SMMEs and one for Infrastructure Projects—featuring a total of over 50 projects across six different green and blue sectors.

The burgeoning businesses will have the opportunity to present their offering to an attentive audience of investors and corporate representatives eager to delve deeper into their ideas and visions. Startups will receive insights and constructive feedback from the “shark tank” jury of high-level business leaders and be able to identify investors who share a genuine interest in supporting and nurturing their vision.

Click here for more information on projects that have already been approved.

Masterclass and mingling

On the pre-conference day on 18 February, 2025, a Masterclass on African carbon market opportunities will provide an essential training workshop focused on deepening the understanding of carbon finance, learning from practical examples and discovering how to leverage carbon market opportunities to support sustainable development and climate action. This workshop aligns perfectly with the recent agreement on standards for international carbon markets under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, which aims to regulate and promote carbon trading globally. By integrating these standards, the masterclass will offer valuable insights into how African nations can effectively participate in and benefit from the global carbon market.

To enable delegates to meet, mingle and do deals, there will be plenty of opportunities for networking, business matchmaking and breaking bread together during the upcoming AGES2025. In addition, on Day 3, on Friday, 21 February, an experiential day will take delegates on informative technical site visits to the V&A Waterfront and the Atlantis Special Economic Zone as well as a wine-tasting and lunch in the Cape vineyards.

Investing for long-term sustainability

Sanlam Investments will once again be the title sponsor of the event and lead a diverse group of over 150 investors who are keen to invest in climate solutions. Sanlam Investments Group CEO Carl Roothman says: “Sanlam Investments is committed to sustainable investing and has integrated environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations into our investment process. We believe that sustainable, impact investing is not only the right thing to do, but it also makes good business sense. It leads to better long-term investment outcomes in the long term.”

“Leveraging the green economy is key to achieving these outcomes. To address the most pressing issues in our country today — unemployment, inequality, and climate change — we need investments in areas or projects that tackle these issues. We are already at the forefront of several initiatives which focus on truly building and creating growth for the African continent. The AGES summit is a platform for us to have real discussions and commit to creating impact through investments.”

AGES2025 in a nutshell:

• Sectors in the spotlight: renewables, green transport, water infrastructure, waste management, sustainable agriculture and the blue economy to elevate the greater sustainability agenda.

• Key content pillars: Green reforms, climate finance, nature and biodiversity, building and maintaining sustainable cities and green industrialisation.

• Project pitch programme: 40+ project opportunities worth +$2bn

• Catalysing investment across local and international stakeholders through engaging development finance institutions (DFI) and private investments

• Alignment to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals n

Cape Town, South Africa

25 Years of

Research Excellence

2024 marks the 25th anniversary South Africa’s National Research Foundation (NRF). The NRF is one of Africa’s leading research support and funding agencies. Formed in 1994 from an amalgamation of the Foundation for Science Development (FRD), a unit of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) focused on the natural, physical and engineering sciences, and the Centre for Science Development, a unit attached to the Human Sciences Research Council which focused on the humanities and social sciences. This merger, established through the National Research Foundation Act (Act 23 of 1998), created a single research funding and support agency to service South Africa’s research and innovation environment across the spectrum.

The NRF operates according to the mandate provided by the NRF Act:

• Support, promote and advance research and human capacity development through funding and provision of research infrastructure to facilitate the creation of knowledge, innovation and development in all fields of science and technology, including humanities, social sciences and indigenous knowledge;

• Develop, support and maintain National Research Facilities;

• Promote the development and maintenance of the national science system and Government priorities; and

• Support and promote public awareness of and engagement with science.

In addition to providing funding and support to postgraduate students and postdoctoral researchers, the NRF operates and maintains a number National Facilities which conduct research in key research areas. The NRF also has a unit focused on science communications and public engagement with the aim of bringing science closer to society and to encourage learners to take an interest in science and to take up STEM subjects evel.

The NRF has since consolidated its portfolio of National Research Facilities, currently numbering five, to operate in three main clusters – Nuclear, Biodiversity, and Astronomy:

• iThemba Laboratory for Accelerator Based Sciences (NRF-iThemba LABS) is Africa’s largest facility for particle and nuclear research. It operates the continent’s only separated sector cyclotron among other equipment. Its facilities are used for both research and commercial activities including the production of radioisotopes for the medical sector.

• The South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity (NRF-SAIAB) is a leader in the field of aquatic biodiversity research in marine offshore and inland freshwater environments. It operates a number of platforms capable of research across various environments and also focuses on the development of the country’s Biodiversity and Blue Economies.

• The South African Environmental Observation Network (NRF-SAEON) is a long-term environmental observation and research facility focused on environmental observation, data management and education outreach. It operates a network of seven nodes, two research infrastructures and a national office covering the major terrestrial and marine ecosystems in South Africa.

• The South African Astronomical Observatory (NRF-SAAO) oversees the country’s optical and infrared astronomy research. It is headquartered at Cape Town’s Observatory and also operates a number of telescopes, including the Southern African Large Telescope (SALT) at its Sutherland site in South Africa’s Karoo region.

• The South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRF-SARAO) oversees South Africa’s radio astronomy research activities. It operates a number of radio telescopes at various sites in the country including the Mid-Frequency portion of the Square Kilometer Array (SKA), the MeerKAT radio telescope (the precursor to the SKA), HERA, C-BASS and other instruments. It is also a part of the African Very Long Baseline Interferometry Network (AVN).

Transformation of the Research Landscape

One of the primary objectives of the NRF since its inception has been to address the imbalances that exist across South Africa’s science and research landscape that were the result of the country’s previous apartheid policies.

TIES: The core concepts of the NRF Vision 2030

In 2020, the NRF adopted its Vision 2030, developed around four core concepts of Transformation, Impact, Excellence, and Sustainability (TIES), i.e. transformation of the country’s science cohort with an emphasis on equity in areas of gender, race and disability as well as access and success for postgraduate students; impact that transforms research outputs into outcomes for the benefit of society; excellence in terms of human capacity development and the provision of research infrastructure critical for carrying out excellent research; and sustainability in building for the future with a scientific cohort capable of training new generations of scientists and through the maintenance and building of infrastructure focused on global sustainable development. n

Dr Fulufhelo Nelwamondo, CEO, NRF

OPPORTUNITY can present itself anywhere

Celebrating 25 Years of Research, Innovation, Impact and Partnerships

For 25 years, the National Research Foundation has provided postgraduate students, researchers and postdoctoral Fellows with opportunities to help build Africa’s science landscape.

From the natural, physical and engineering sciences to the humanities and social sciences, the organisation has contributed to the continent’s knowledge pool, enabling it to compete at a global level across disciplines.

The NRF has also helped to transform South Africa’s research cohort to one that represents the country’s race, gender and disability demographics.

Here’s to the next 25 years of opportunities.

Water use efficiency remains key to meeting Gauteng’s water demand

Gauteng’s water supply and demand requirements need to be carefully managed in Province’s water scare and financially distressed municipal environment. The debate about water sufficiency cannot be isolated to a water quantity dialogue outside the affordability of a good that is not only a social but economic one. The complexities of water provision must be fully understood in toto beyond an unbalance noise of “just pump more water into the system” to include how water provided is efficiently utilised. To narrow and overly simplify it as a one-dimensional water quantity science is unsustainable and can only serve to collapse the water supply system and annihilate the value chain, particularly Rand Water, resulting in the never seen before water catastrophe in Gauteng and parts of Mpumalanga, North West and Free State Provinces.

What we must first understand is that South Africa is a water stressed country. South Africa’s mean annual rainfall is estimated at 492 mm (millimetres) against the world average of 985 mm. To make matters worse, rainfall distribution in the country is uneven with the western part of the country receiving over 1 000 mm of rainfall and the eastern receiving no more than 250 mm of rainfall.

Gauteng only receives between 500-1 000mm. This rainfall is not sufficient to meet the water use needs of Gauteng for the irrigation, environmental, domestic, mining, and industrial uses if this rainfall was to be dammed in the Province.

To rub salt into the wound, the Gauteng region is also in the receiving end of the El Nino state the country now finds itself. According to the South Africa Weather Services (SAWS) Climate Watch Report issued on the 31st of October 2023 for the period November to March 2024, this state is expected to persist through most of the summer months.

The SAWS multi-model rainfall forecast indicates below -normal rainfall for the north-east of the country during NovDec-Jan, Dec-Jan-Feb and Jan-Feb-Mar with below normal rainfall predicted for the central and south-western parts of the country. Minimum and maximum temperatures are also expected to be mostly above-normal countrywide for the forecast period.

For Rand Water and Gauteng this in turn means higher than normal water consumption with excessive water consumption.

To meet the water demand in its area of operation, Rand Water has over the years starting as way back at 1903 started the exploitation water resources firstly beginning

with groundwater development and as the Witwatersrand demand for water started exceeding the supply, Rand Water started exploiting surface water with the building of Vaal dam with then Department of irrigation in 1955.

Progressively over time many dams were built in the country including Lesotho’s Mohale and Katse dams as the demand for water exponentially grew. The number of these dams have increased over time to several dams that feed into the Vaal dam from which Rand Water abstracts raw water. These dams together with the rivers that feed them form a system that is called the Integrated Vaal River System. It’s a river system made up of 14 dams located in Gauteng, Mpumalanga, Free State, KZN, Northern Cape and Lesotho. It is reported that the system supplies water to 46% of the country’s economy and 33% of the population.

Rand Water has since those early ages been closely monitoring water demands of water users in its area of operations and contributing to the water resource reconciliation studies that advises the now Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) when to build the dams to meet the future water requirements. Subsequently, Rand Water then expands its bulk water infrastructure to meet future water requirements. Rand Water’s demand forecasting is mainly made up of:

1. Customer water demands. This forecasting is based on demand forecasts from major customers (municipalities) per meter connection at 5-year intervals. Included in this forecasting is planned municipal developments.

2. Population forecasting. Rand Water obtains estimates of population growth from Statistics South Africa and various institutions because the water demand growth is closely related to population growth.

Intrinsically, Rand Water looks at factors affecting demand growth, utilises population demographic model and questionnaire model to major customers.

Following the acquisition of the water demand forecasts, Rand Water imposes this demand into its asset life cycle management model for the planning and design of infrastructure augmentation project to meet future water requirements by its customers. This model not only assist with infrastructure planning but also ensure that Rand Water operates and maintains its infrastructure fleet so that the assets achieve their original design or estimated useful life.

Sipho Mosai, Chief Executive of Rand Water

The identified projects are given effect by the Infrastructure Development Plan that highlights projects that must be implemented in the medium-term future. Rand Water plans for the a 20yr. Rand Water in 2023, because of its long-term planning discipline, launched two flagship projects namely:

• Vlakfontein Reservoir No. 3. The project was about the construction of a 210ML post-tensioned concrete reservoir with associated inlet works, outlet chambers and scour chambers. It is the largest post-tensioned reservoir in the world at 210ML. The construction of the project started in May 2020 and was completed in February 2023. The reservoir supplies Tshwane (Pretoria East), Ekurhuleni, Govan Mbeki, Victor Khanye, Thembisile Hani and Lesedi Municipalities.

• Zuikerbosch System 5A. The second flagship project is the Zuikerbosch System 5A water purification works. The project’s main objective is to provide an additional 1 200 Million Liters per Day (ML/Day) of potable water to the current supply capacity of Rand Water. Construction of the scheme commenced in 2015 and the project is already adding an additional water supply of 150 (ML/Day) into the system from August 2023.

These augmentation projects have since enabled Rand Water to supply water that far exceeds our customers water demands that usually grows year-on-year by 1.2%. The graph herein below clearly demonstrates that Rand Water has been growing and increasing bulk potable water supply

to municipalities. In 2023, relative to 2022, the water supply variance as a percentage from planned volumes grew by 6.1 %. In volume terms, Rand Water on average supplied 4 520 ML/D relative with planned water supply demand of 4 262 ML/D. This consumption was approximately 1.5% more than 4 444 ML/D potable water supplied in 2022. Rand Water has for the last three year been increasing water provision year-on-year exponentially for the last five years depicted by the linear dotted graph in Figure 1 herein below.

Quarter (Q) on quarter from the first quarter of 2023, variance from planned water volumes supplied has increased by 4,2%, 7,5% and 7.4% in Q2, Q3 and Q4, respectively. In effect, Rand Water has been pumping more water into the system than planned water demand.

Figure 1

Completed 210ML Vlakfontein Reservoir No.3 in Ekurhuleni

Zuikerbosch System 5A

Financial Impact

The increased water supply to municipalities beyond the budgeted water requirements have had unintended financial distress to municipalities and accounts receivable burden on Rand Water’s finances. The Rand Water debtors’ days have at the same period of increased water supply further deteriorated. Most municipalities are struggling to pay their water bills to Rand Water on time and some have completely stopped.

Rand Water debtors from the Financial Year (FY) 2019 to 2023

In 2019 Rand Water debtors’ days were sitting at 56 days but by end of the financial year in 2023 the debtors’ days had gown to a whopping 109 days demonstrating a sheer financial distress by municipalities. Despite many packages Rand Water made available to the municipalities, the municipalities still struggle with their water bill payment. Some of the interventions included the extended payment period and interest holidays.

It is evident from the above that increased water volume in a high-water loss environment is not helpful to the municipalities and pumping more water into such a system will not only harm municipalities with high debt but also cause Rand Water financial distress and extinction in the long run. Insisting on Rand Water to pump more water into the system is potentially detrimental to the largest water utility in the country.

The major contributor to NRW is largely composed of physical losses (33%). This is due to, amongst the others, pipe leaks/ burst and reservoir overflows. The leak repair performance of municipalities ranged from poor to critical as outlined by the No drop Report. The report also points out that the Gauteng liters per person pay day water consumption is 279 against the international average of 173 liters per person per day owing to high municipal high non-revenue water.

In 2023 the Rand Water, that provides wholesale water in bulk to municipalities, peak water supply at the end of the financial year was 5 200ML/D. The 33% physical water loses translates to the total physical water losses of 1 7billion Liters of water a day when Rand Water’s supplies at peak. Put differently this is an equivalent 850 000 000 2L water bottles a day.

The Solution

To demand of Rand Water to simply add more water in the system at all costs without understanding that Rand Water business model of purchasing raw water from DWS purifying it at a net operating cost of R16 billion per annum without any national fiscus support and appropriate cash backed

revenue is irresponsible and at best reckless. It is a call for the total distraction and complete annihilation of the water supply value chain that provides an estimated 18 million water consumers dependent on bulk water from Rand Water. To demand for Rand Water to add water into a water leaking system and try to silence it from demanding it be paid in time to cover its raw water, chemical, labour and electricity costs is an unfortunate, ill-informed unhelpful expediency with short term focus completely lacking oversight. It simply flies in the face of basic science.

The solution water supply challenges in Gauteng still lies with the water use efficiency. This is a matter that is not completely new to the water supply sector and has been at the fore since the advent of the first addition of National Water Resources Strategy in 2004. The national water resource strategy is the country’s blueprint that provides the framework for the protection, use, development, conservation, management, and control of water resources for the country. The strategy makes it clear that “we have enough water to meet our nation’s needs for the foreseeable future. But we need to use that water sparingly, and we must reduce and avoid pollution”. It further emphasises that “We are not on the point of running out of water, but we have to use our limited water supplies more efficiently and effectively”.

The second edition in 2012 also indicated that Water Conservation and Demand Management (WC/WDM) is the foremost reconciliation strategy to balance water supply and demand. WC/WDM targets must be met in several priority water supply systems to reduce demand and thus ‘stretch’ the available water resources up to the date when the new augmentation projects will be implemented. If this is not achieved, earlier and more severe water restriction will have to be implemented when droughts are experienced. The report suggested that a dedicated national programme is required to deal with water wastage and losses, which will have additional job creation and small business development benefits. The strategy proposed that specific actions and targets be set different water use sectors, which include:

• Implement effective water metering and monitoring system,

• Set and implement realistic targets for water use reduction,

• Development of incentive schemes,

• Implement targeted regulation and ensure effective control,

• Obtain sector commitments,

• Focus on improved technology,

• Improve associated water management, especially in priority risk areas,

• Support effective water use for productive purposes in rural and peri-urban communities.

The third edition of the NWRS dated November 2021 emphasises the same. It emphasises the water demand management to ensure efficient use of water by all sectors through the implementation of appropriate water conservation and water demand management measures to meet the social and economic needs of South Africa both now and in the future. Furthermore, the report indicates that where water is used efficiently, WC/WDM could postpone the need for capital infrastructure such as dams and bulk treatment works. The resources, scope of work and prioritisation of WC/WDM activities should be determined through an integrated planning process.

The latest No Drop report further underscores that Gauteng solution lies with the invest in Water Conservation and Water Demand Managements. According to DWS there is the is an insufficient investment in Operation and Maintenance (O&M), resulting in operational inefficiencies of the infrastructure leading into massive water losses. The lack of O&M has resulted in the rapid deterioration of the condition and performance of the infrastructure. There are a few interventions that can immediately be affected to set the WC/WDM interventions on the way. These include:

• Enforcement of By-Laws such as tackling unwise water usage,

• Appointment of panel of service providers to fix leaks on an urgent basis,

• Implement Pressure Reducing Valves to manage night flows,

• Restriction of high consumption meters.

The above must be supported by repurposed institutional arrangements wherein water and sanitation revenue is ringfenced so that infrastructure investments could be made into the sector enabling sufficient budget to implement water conservation and demand management measures. n

The future of the Blue Economy

The future of the Blue Economy in South Africa is looking promising, with significant potential for economic growth and job creation. The country’s Operation Phakisa Oceans Economy initiative aims to unlock the economic potential of South Africa’s oceans, with a focus on marine transport, manufacturing, and tourism.

Currently, the Blue Economy in South Africa is valued at a significant amount, with the potential to increase by 250% to 350% of its present value. This growth is expected to provide up to a certain number of jobs, although the exact figure is not specified.

In terms of job creation, the Blue Economy has the potential to create a significant number of jobs, particularly for young people in South Africa. The National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) has identified the Blue Economy as a key area for job creation and economic growth.

Some of the key sectors that are expected to drive growth and job creation in the Blue Economy in South Africa include:

• Aquaculture: This sector has the potential to create a significant number of jobs and contribute to economic growth. In Africa, aquaculture has already contributed US$2.8 billion to the economy and provides jobs for about 1.2 million people.

• Marine Manufacturing: This sector has the potential to create jobs and drive economic growth through the production of goods such as boats, ships, and other marine equipment.

• Tourism: The tourism sector has the potential to create jobs and drive economic growth through the development of coastal tourism infrastructure and the promotion of marine-based tourism activities.

Overall, the future of the Blue Economy in South Africa looks promising, with significant potential for economic growth and job creation. n

The

Rise of

implementation in South Africa: Renewable Energy

South Africa has made significant strides in renewable energy implementation, driven by the need to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, mitigate climate change, and meet growing electricity demand.

Here’s an overview of the vast potential in wind power generation, landfill gas, and hydropower:

Wind Power Generation

1. Installed capacity: South Africa has an installed wind power capacity of over 3.5 GW, with more than 30 operational wind farms.

2. Potential capacity: The South African Wind Energy Association (SAWEA) estimates that the country has a potential wind energy capacity of 30 GW or more.

3. Key projects: The Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement (REIPPPP) program has driven the development of several large-scale wind farms, including the 140 MW Amakhala Emoyeni Wind Farm and the 100 MW Noupoort Wind Farm.

4. Benefits: Wind power generation can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve air quality, and create jobs in rural areas.

Challenges and Opportunities

Landfill Gas

1. Installed capacity: South Africa has an installed landfill gas capacity of around 30 MW, with several operational projects.

2. Potential capacity: The South African National Energy Development Institute (SANEDI) estimates that the country has a potential landfill gas capacity of 200 MW or more.

3. Key projects: The Robinson Deep Landfill Gas Project in Johannesburg and the Coastal Landfill Gas Project in Durban are two notable examples of landfill gas-to-energy projects in South Africa.

4. Benefits: Landfill gas utilisation can reduce methane emissions, generate electricity, and create jobs in waste management.

Hydropower

1. Installed capacity: South Africa has an installed hydropower capacity of around 700 MW, with several operational power plants.

2. Potential capacity: The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) estimates that South Africa has a potential hydropower capacity of 1.5 GW or more.

3. Key projects: The Ingula Pumped Storage Scheme, the Vanderkloof Hydroelectric Power Station, and the Gariep Hydroelectric Power Station are some of the notable hydropower projects in South Africa.

4. Benefits: Hydropower generation can provide reliable and renewable energy, support irrigation and water supply, and create jobs in rural areas.

While South Africa has made significant progress in renewable energy implementation, there are still challenges to overcome, such as:

1. Grid integration: Integrating renewable energy sources into the grid remains a challenge.

2. Energy storage: Developing energy storage solutions to address intermittency issues is crucial.

3. Policy and regulation: A stable and supportive policy framework is essential for continued growth in the renewable energy sector.

Despite these challenges, South Africa’s renewable energy sector presents numerous opportunities for:

1. Economic growth: Renewable energy can drive economic growth, create jobs, and stimulate local economies.

2. Energy security: Renewable energy can improve energy security by reducing dependence on fossil fuels and enhancing energy self-sufficiency.

3. Climate change mitigation: Renewable energy can help South Africa meet its climate change mitigation commitments and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. n

Amakhala Emoyeni Wind Farm

Value organisational performance not just on financial metrics but also on its social and environmental Impact:

ESG & Sustainability experts

By Mansi Praharaj

Many consumers are conscious of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) and sustainability and are willing to pay more for sustainable products. A McKinsey survey said over 60% expressed their willingness to pay more for a product with sustainable packaging. In the same McKinsey Survey, 75% of millennials responded that they consider sustainability when they make a purchase. In another PwC survey, it was found that consumers were willing to pay an average of 9.7% more for sustainably produced or sourced goods.

31% of consumers revealed that their last purchase was made up of primarily “sustainable” or “environmentally responsible” items. Consumers are willing to change their buying behaviours to decrease the impact they have on the environment. Consumers are even willing to pay sustainability premiums. However, the government has not yet realised its gravity and need opined many speakers at the Road Show on Sustainability Impact Matters held at T-Hub, Madhapur

The four-city road show was organised by The Aspire Impact, a social enterprise focused on leadership and ecosystem development in social and environmental impact, in partnership with British Council, Social Alpha, NSE and T-Hub. The roadshow which travelled to New Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru reached Hyderabad today and concluded with a half-day session.

The objectives of the show were to make the Sustainability Impact and related matters such as ESG, sustainability and Impact Investing; Social Innovation; Impact Innovation, Acceleration and Entrepreneurship; Climate Ventures and ESG, Sustainability and Impact Measurement become mainstream discussions in our day-to-day conversations.

Ajit Rangnekar, the Director General of Research and Innovation Circle of Hyderabad (RICH) and former Dean of ISB said Telangana state was strongly committed to the overall development of the society. He spoke about innovation in every sphere of life and cited ‘Intinta Innovator”(innovator in every house). Innovators from all walks of life, particularly those residing in rural Telangana, are encouraged to submit their ingenious ideas and projects, says Telangana State Innovation Cell.

The cell acts as the government’s first response to innovators, start-ups, entrepreneurs and facilitators, Ajit Rangnekar added. The programme fosters an inclusive innovation ecosystem across the state of Telangana. The main aim of this program was to cultivate a culture of innovation from a young age, including within the government itself and to propel the State forward through homegrown innovation and entrepreneurship, he added.

Sujit Jagirdar, CEO of T-Hub graced the closing of the Roadshow and gave his closing address. Yes, Sustainability Impact Matters. The area of your focus matters the most to us at T-Hub, he said. As most of the attendees of the Roadshow

were first-time visitors to T-Hub, he gave an overview of the same and told them that in its 9-year journey, it incubated over 2500 startups. The impact is measured in many ways and as far as startups are concerned. Valuation is one of the ways to measure the impact of a startup. But we are not in that race now as most of the 500 startups being incubated currently at T-Hub are early-stage startups.

The world’s social and environmental challenges are causing significant global disquiet, and protests against inaction are mounting. Governments, markets, corporations and individuals are responding by embracing Impact, embedding it in every business, investment, policy and consumption decision. The impact is very important. But it is largely ignored may be due to lack of any comprehensive and standard methodology to measure it, and due to failure of markets to value it said Amit Bhatia, Founder & CEO of Aspire Impact.

But, off late things are changing. There is a growing recognition that we must value organisational performance not just on financial metrics but also on its social and environmental impact, he added

Many experts such as Vivek Subramanian, Co-founder and ED of Fourth Partner Energy; two overseas speakers Mauricio Samper, CEO, Small Enterprise Assistance Funds(SEAF), Columbia; Kieron Boyle, CEO, 100x Social Impact Accelerator and Chair, Impact Investing Institute, UK and others addressed the 40 plus gathering.

Kieron’s presence helped buttress our roadshow’s purpose to help Indian organisations accelerate their journey towards

“Total Impact Performance”, learn from UK counterparts on how to design, build, scale and manage impact, and build better bridges for impact financing and impact entrepreneurship with the UK said Amit Bhatia.

Bhatia further added that we will need to change the sustainable consumer movement to encourage them to buy only sustainable goods.

New start-ups and large corporations are now increasingly embracing Impact. However, despite a strong startup ecosystem, with over 112,718 DPIIT(Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade)-recognised startups across 763 districts, 920+ incubators and accelerators, India is not among the top 10 hotspots for social innovations observed some of the speakers

India must enhance its solid foundation and build greater bridges with world leaders in social innovation. The UK is one such leader and is home to the world’s first impact wholesaler (Big Society Capital), the world’s first impact bond (Peterborough SIB), the world’s only impact investment multilateral (GSG Impact with Impact Investing Institute as the UK National Advisory Board), and home to a pioneering accelerator (LSE’s 100x Impact Accelerator). Kieron Boyle, OBE, represents all these institutions & trends, as a Board Member of BSC, NAB CEO for III and future CEO of 100x Impact Accelerator, added other speakers.

I believe the future lies in behavioural changes which are driven internally coming from Purpose and long-term sustainability rather than externally like regulations etc. This can be achieved when we can translate complex terms and concepts in a manner that a common person and child can understand. These roadshows are our attempt to help break those myths and make them commonplace, Viiveck Verma said.

A panel discussion was held on ESG, Sustainability and Impact. It was moderated by Viiveck Verma, Chief Incubation Warrior, Global Carbon Warrior. n

Smart Cities vision South Africa -

Ensure smart green and liveable cities

The Smart Cities vision in South Africa aims to create smart, green, and liveable cities that provide a high quality of life for citizens, while also promoting sustainable development and economic growth. Here are some key aspects of the Smart Cities vision in South Africa:

Key Components

1. Smart Infrastructure: Investing in smart infrastructure such as smart grids, smart transportation systems, and smart buildings to improve efficiency and reduce waste.

2. Green Spaces: Creating and maintaining green spaces such as parks, gardens, and green roofs to improve air quality, mitigate the urban heat island effect, and provide recreational spaces for citizens.

3. Sustainable Transportation: Promoting sustainable transportation options such as electric vehicles, public transportation, and non-motorised transportation to reduce congestion and air pollution.

4. Energy Efficiency: Implementing energy-efficient technologies and practices to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

5. Waste Management: Implementing effective waste management systems to reduce waste, increase recycling, and promote a circular economy.

6. Citizen Engagement: Encouraging citizen engagement and participation in the planning and development of smart cities through various channels such as public consultations, social media, and mobile apps.

7. Data-Driven Decision Making: Using data and analytics to inform decision-making and improve the efficiency and effectiveness of city operations.

Benefits

1. Improved Quality of Life: Smart cities can provide a high quality of life for citizens by offering access to clean air and water, green spaces, and reliable transportation.

2. Economic Growth: Smart cities can attract businesses, talent, and investment, driving economic growth and job creation.

3. Sustainable Development: Smart cities can promote

sustainable development by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, conserving natural resources, and promoting eco-friendly practices.

4. Increased Efficiency: Smart cities can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of city operations, reducing waste and improving service delivery.

South Africa has been actively pursuing smart city initiatives to improve the quality of life for its citizens. Here are some successful smart cities projects in South Africa:

• Smart Cape Town: The City of Cape Town has implemented various smart city initiatives, including a smart transportation system, smart energy management, and a data analytics platform to improve service delivery.

• Johannesburg’s Smart City Initiative: The City of Johannesburg has launched a smart city initiative aimed at improving public safety, transportation, and energy efficiency. The initiative includes the deployment of smart sensors, cameras, and data analytics platforms

• Durban’s Smart City Project: The City of Durban has implemented a smart city project aimed at improving transportation, energy efficiency, and public safety. The project includes the deployment of smart sensors, cameras, and data analytics platforms.

• Tshwane’s Smart City Initiative: The City of Tshwane has launched a smart city initiative aimed at improving public safety, transportation, and energy efficiency. The initiative includes the deployment of smart sensors, cameras, and data analytics platforms.

These smart city initiatives in South Africa are aimed at improving the quality of life for citizens, promoting economic growth, and enhancing environmental sustainability.

Conclusion

The Smart Cities vision in South Africa aims to create smart, green, and liveable cities that provide a high quality of life for citizens. While there are challenges to be addressed, the benefits of smart cities, including improved quality of life, economic growth, and sustainable development, make them an attractive option for South African cities. n

Community Champions Environmental Stewardship at Magudu Primary School in Mpumalanga

The vibrant spirit of community collaboration was on full display as more than 210 participants joined forces at Magudu Primary School for a transformative Community Clean-Up Campaign. The event, organised by Fibre Circle in partnership with DARDLEA, the Good Work Foundation (GWF), and the Bushbuckridge Local Municipality, underscored the urgency of addressing illegal dumping and poor waste management while fostering a culture of recycling.

This impactful initiative united a diverse group of stakeholders, including the Ehlanzeni District Municipality, the School Governing Body, Traditional Tribunal members, and local ward council representatives. The welcoming ceremony featured inspiring remarks from Charmaine Maphosa of Fibre Circle, Selby Lukhele from DARDLEA, and Musa Mokoena of GWF, each highlighting the critical role of collaboration in environmental sustainability.

Mrs. Mabaso, Principal of Magudu Primary School, expressed heartfelt appreciation for the collective effort: “We are immensely grateful for the support from all our partners. This initiative not only educates our learners but also empowers them to take ownership of their environment.”

Charmaine Maphosa of Fibre Circle stressed the importance of sustained engagement: “This event is a foundation for a lasting partnership. Through our Zithande Mzansi Schools Outreach Programme, we aim to continue empowering learners and the community to champion environmental care.”

Musa Mokoena from GWF celebrated the collaboration’s success: “Working together with Fibre Circle and other partners amplifies our ability to create meaningful programs that uplift schools and communities alike.”

Activities and Contributions:

The day’s activities included a school and community clean-up, educational sessions with the learners, and a tree-planting initiative. Participants were provided with practical resources to support the campaign, including: Waste collection bulk bags, reusable water bottles, sun hats and litter picker tongs.

Leaners also received learning materials from Fibre Circle for the promotion of environmental awareness and understanding of the importance of sustainability and environmental stewardship.

With additional support to various stakeholders such as Debonairs who generously supplied meals for participants, ensuring a successful and engaging event, the campaign was an undeniable success in fostering environmental responsibility. n