By Thapelo Molefe
There have been significant environmental and socio-economic developments in the Forestry, Fisheries and Environment Department , including the implementation of the Climate Change Act, according to Minister Dion George.
Briefing the media on his 100 days in his office, he said the department has also made strides in collaborating with stakeholders and integrating climate education into the national curriculum.
“South Africa is committed to global climate agreements and sustainable development,” George emphasised, referencing his participation in international climate forums in China, Abidjan and Azerbaijan.
He added that the government had initiated a comprehensive review of its regulatory framework, aiming to strike a balance between environmental protection and economic development.
George said the review sought to eliminate unnecessary regulations and paperwork that have not been updated in over 12 years. It was expected to streamline business processes and promote sustainable development.
“What I intend to do is once I have got the comprehensive list and we are clear that there won’t be any unintended consequences, I will then do the necessary changes to the regulations to write them out. That would make doing processes and business faster, we believe, without doing any harm,” he said.
The minister said he had also introduced several flagship initiatives, including the Kruger-Kirstenbosch-iSimangaliso Icon Status Strategy and promoting eco-tourism and conservation.
The Fair Industry for Lions, Leopards, Elephants, and Rhinos initiative was aimed at protecting iconic wildlife, while the Fishing for Freedom empowered small-scale fishermen.
He said these initiatives prioritised economic development, job creation and community empowerment, aligning with the Government of National Unity’s six main priorities.
As the country prepared for the G20 presidency, Goerge said the plan was to host key meetings at iconic sites like Kirstenbosch and Kruger National Park to showcase the country’s sustainability efforts on a global stage.
Due to budget cuts, the department was seeking donor funding to maintain effective conservation efforts.
And, a departmental spending review aimed to increase efficiency and reallocate resources to priority programmes.
Deputy Minister Narend Singh emphasised the department’s commitment to environmental governance, sustainability and international cooperation.
“South Africa’s primary reliance on coal for energy generation has resulted in considerable international interest in the country’s mercury emissions,” he said, referencing the country’s hosting of the 16th International Conference on Mercury as a Global Pollutant (ICMGP) in July.
“As the focal point of the Minamata Convention in South Africa, the department… leads and coordinates the country’s efforts in managing mercury in an environmentally sound manner,” the deputy minister said.
On the Just Energy Transition, Singh noted the importance of local government.
“Municipalities have a critical role to play in a successful energy transition, in improving South Africa’s energy security and in ensuring that the country has sufficient reliable and affordable electricity to support expanded socio-economic development,” he said.
Singh also highlighted the potential of aquaculture for sustainable development.
“Aquaculture offers us a powerful tool for sustainable development. It represents an opportunity to enhance our nutrition and food security, generate employment especially in rural areas, and drive economic growth while protecting our environment and promoting sustainable utilisation of our natural resources,” Singh said.
He said individuals had a role to play in protecting the environment.
“Every bottle, every straw, every piece of litter you pick up can lead to a cleaner, healthier ocean. Small actions can make a big difference,” he said, referencing the International Coastal Clean-up Day.
Deputy Minister Bernice Swarts said key activities included forestry and fire management, such as consultations with fire protection associations and provincial governments.
Swarts led the 2024 Forestry Summit and National Arbor Month campaign, where 6000 trees were planted. She also spoke about the ambitious Presidential Ten Million Trees Programme.
Swarts underscored the importance of early warning systems for hazardous weather, showcasing her department’s work in preparing South Africa for climate-related challenges.
Finally, she paid tribute to park rangers who protected the country’s natural heritage.
They all assured the nation of their continued dedication to advancing the priorities of the GNU.
INSIDE POLITICS
