Copenhagen: Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, will this week represent South Africa at the Copenhagen Climate Ministerial Meeting in Denmark, a critical platform leading to COP30 in Bel©m, Brazil. The ministerial meeting, taking place on 7 and 8 May 2025, will gather around 40 leaders and ministers to discuss key issues.
According to South African Government News Agency, the Minister’s goal will be to advance South Africa’s climate agenda with concrete outcomes on stronger global partnerships, clearer funding pathways, and renewed momentum to tackle climate change. The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment emphasized the importance of returning with commitments that empower South Africa’s people and protect its wildlife and marine resources, aiming for a resilient, sustainable future.
For South Africans, this Ministerial is about protecting livelihoods, strengthening resilience, and safeguarding the nation’s natural heritage. The challenges posed by climate change, including droughts, floods, and rising temperatures, threaten food security, agriculture, and iconic wildlife. The department highlighted the importance of driving sustainable development through active engagement and securing essential climate finance to deliver a just transition to a low-carbon economy while preserving biodiversity.
South Africa’s participation is vital to shaping global policies that deliver resources, technology, and support to its people and environment. The discussions will focus on topics like science and the Global Stocktake, which are crucial for translating into cleaner air, safer water, healthier oceans, and new jobs in green sectors for South Africans. Ensuring the nation’s voice is heard in these critical decisions is a priority for the Minister.
The country will advocate for ambitious climate commitments that foster job creation, poverty reduction, and biodiversity conservation, embedding community and environmental upliftment in its climate plans. The Minister will also engage in sessions focused on protecting workers in high-carbon industries while unlocking opportunities in renewable energy and green technologies. Championing increased funding for adaptation projects like water infrastructure, climate-smart agriculture, and marine conservation efforts will be a key focus, improving daily life and protecting ocean ecosystems.