The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, announced on 17 March 2025 that President Cyril Ramaphosa proclaimed the Climate Change Act, 2024 (Act No. 22 of 2024) (the Act). 

The Act is intended to enable the development of an effective climate change response and a long-term, just transition to a low-carbon and climate-resilient economy and society for South Africa in the context of sustainable development.

He said it lays the foundation for a green economy that is resilient, inclusive, and future-focused. By creating a clear framework for climate action, the Act will drive innovation, foster sustainable industries, and support job creation in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and eco-tourism, among other sectors.

George added, “The Act represents a critical milestone for environmental sustainability, economic development, and job creation. We are committed to ensuring climate action catalyses economic growth, creates jobs, and builds a sustainable future for South Africa”.

The Act reflects the government’s commitment to a just transition to a low-carbon economy, ensuring that climate action goes hand-in-hand with economic empowerment and job creation. As the country faces growing environmental and economic complexities, the Act provides a vital framework for securing a prosperous and sustainable future for all South Africans.

Although the Act is operating, the commencement of sections 12(6), 13(1), 13(2), 13(3)(b), 14(3)(a), 15(5), 15(6), 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 25(4)(c), 26(2) to (6), 27, 28 and 30(2)(a) and (b), has been deferred to a later date.The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) is developing a set of regulations that will enable the implementation of these provisions. 

Some of the draft regulations are at an advanced stage of development. They will be gazetted for public input and comment soon. 

“The recent severe weather conditions that have caused havoc in different parts of the country are a stark reminder of the urgent need for decisive climate action, and my department will continue to work hard towards achieving our mandate”, said the minister. 

A copy of the Act, Gazetted Proclamation Notice and the deferred provisions can be accessed on the following links: 

Climate Change Act: https://www.dffe.gov.za/sites/default/files/legislations/cca_assented_g50966vol709n5050.pdf 

Climate Change Act proclamation:  https://www.dffe.gov.za/sites/default/files/legislations/cca_commencement_g52319pn251.pdf 

Deferred provisions of the Act: https://www.dffe.gov.za/sites/default/files/legislations/cca_deferredprovisions_g52319pn251.pdf