Green economies are defined as economic systems that take into account holistic remedial measures incorporating economic, environmental (including ecological) and social challenges that stop or reduce economic activities and growth. Central to the green economy is the desire to improve people’s lives by combating climate change, energy insecurity and ecological instability. In line with this definition, the green economy in South Africa is viewed as a path to sustainable development based on its potential to address the interdependence among inclusive economic growth, social protection and natural ecosystems. The green economy is characterised by substantially increased investment in green industrial sectors, supported by enabling policy reforms. As with any other new policy initiative, the social and economic impact of the transition to a green economy, in both the short and the long term, is not yet fully understood. As such, it is important to assess the implications of this transition at country level using selected indices, given that each country has unique developmental challenges and aspirations. This paper provides an overview of South Africa’s transition to a green economy. It specifically looks at the domestic and continental implications of South Africa’s reorientation of its economy towards a low-carbon growth trajectory.

Copyright: SAIIA, Johannesburg

Weblink: http://www.saiia.org.za/occasional-papers/south-africas-green-economy-transition-implications-for-reorienting-the-economy-towards-a-low-carbon-growth-trajectory