By introducing a new strategic framework that includes all actors in society, Johannesburg is mainstreaming climate change mitigation and setting big goals for the future.
In 2006, Johannesburg developed its first strategy for long-term growth and development, envisioning a resilient and sustainable city. To deliver on this vision, the city has introduced the Climate Change Strategic Framework (CCSF). The purpose of the CCSF is to strengthen the city’s organization in its delivery on climate change action across sectors internally in the municipality and between communities, businesses, and citizens in the city.
As part of the CCSF, Johannesburg aims to mainstream climate action in the city. Measuring greenhouse gas emissions will take a bottom-up approach, with a joint effort between the municipality’s departments as well as from business and communities. The city will make use of C40’s modeling tool “CURB,” which helps cities and local climate planners better understand the energy and emission implications of different low-carbon interventions in order to implement those most appropriate for Johannesburg. In doing so, Johannesburg hopes to see a unified city working towards a greener and more resilient future together.
65% reduced CO2 emissions by 2050 with the Climate Change Strategic Framework
The challenge
Eighty-seven percent of South Africa’s energy came from fossil fuel in 2014. Instead of producing an energy-centric, short-term policy to cut emissions, South Africa has instead mainstreamed mitigation into all aspects of society, creating a more holistic approach.
Co-benefits
Economic Johannesburg issued $143 million worth of green bonds in 2014 for climate mitigation investments, which will feed into the holistic climate action strategy.
Environmental Working towards significantly reducing its CO2 emissions, Johannesburg will undertake projects that will benefit the overall environment of the city.
Social Johannesburg aims to mobilize society to work together in realizing the city’s ambitious climate change goals.
About Johannesburg
Johannesburg is the largest city in South Africa and is one of the 50 largest urban areas in the world, but while Johannesburg is not one of South Africa’s three capital cities, it is the seat of the Constitutional Court.
