The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has published draft regulations for carbon budgets and greenhouse gas mitigation plans, which could, if finalised, impose binding emissions limits and planning requirements on major emitters in the electricity and industrial sectors.
The regulations, which support the implementation of the Climate Change Act of 2024, are part of South Africa’s effort to meet its nationally determined contributions, including the target of limiting emissions to between 350 and 420 million tonnes of CO₂ equivalent by 2030. The draft includes technical guidelines and a declaration of applicable greenhouse gases and activities to guide compliance.
Regulations were developed through extensive consultation with stakeholders from business, labour, civil society, academia and government, the DFFE says. Formal notices will be published in the Government Gazette and national media with letters sent to Cabinet members, MECs and the Presidential Climate Commission.
“This is a critical step in South Africa’s journey towards a sustainable, low-carbon future,” says Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Dion George. “By setting clear carbon budgets and mitigation plans, we are ensuring that our nation meets its climate commitments.”
The public consultation period opens in August.
