Pretoria: The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has announced that the first round of consultations on the Sectoral Emission Targets (SETs) have been concluded, marking an important step forward in the country’s climate action journey.
According to South African Government News Agency, the SETs, which were published for public comment in May 2024, are a key component of South Africa’s broader climate change strategy. They aim to align sector-specific emissions reductions with economic growth and job creation. The feedback received through the public consultations has been deemed invaluable, aiding in ensuring that the Sectoral Emission Targets effectively address climate change while promoting sustainable economic development.
Dr George emphasized the government’s commitment to forming final SETs that foster green innovation, attract investment, and create job opportunities across key sectors such as energy, manufacturing, and agriculture. Following a thorough review and consultation process, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) is now refining the SETs, incorporating feedback from stakeholders and the public. This inclusive approach aims to ensure that the targets are both ambitious and achievable, providing a balanced pathway supporting climate objectives and economic resilience.
In March 2025, the revised SETs will be presented to the Minister to initiate Inter-Ministerial discussions, as outlined by section 25(3) of the National Climate Change Act. These discussions will focus on aligning the SETs with national development goals, ensuring that South Africa’s climate response supports job creation in emerging industries while promoting long-term economic growth and the acceleration of existing sectoral policies.
The SETs are expected to provide a clear framework for sectors to reduce their emissions, driving the transition to a low-carbon economy. This transition is anticipated to create significant employment opportunities in sectors such as renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable agriculture. The DFFE, under the leadership of Dr George, remains committed to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to ensure that the SETs contribute to building a resilient, low-carbon economy that supports sustainable growth and job creation for all South Africans.