Latest News & Developments
climate change
Beyond the smoke in South Africa’s energy revolution
South Africa remains heavily dependent on coal for electricity, with over 74% of its energy still sourced from fossil fuels.
Cape Town set to host the F20 Climate Solutions Forum: A pivotal moment for Africa
Cape Town will host the 2025 F20 Climate Solutions Forum on 27–28 May, marking a historic moment for Africa as it takes centre stage in global climate discussions. Co-hosted by the Foundations Platform F20 and Democracy Works Foundation, this forum aims to elevate Africa’s climate and development priorities.
How writing letters can inspire climate action
Despite years of climate science advocacy, many still view climate change as a distant threat. This article explores how personal letters can bridge that gap, inspiring action and connection for a better future.
How KwaZulu-Natal is rebuilding after the devastating April 2022 floods
Three years after the devastating April 2022 floods in KwaZulu-Natal, the province continues to rebuild its infrastructure and communities. Explore the progress made, ongoing challenges, and the collaborative efforts of local authorities and civil society to enhance resilience against future disasters.
Lungs of the Earth struggle amid drought, fires and warming
The amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere surged by a record 3. 75 parts per million in 2024 — the fastest annual rise in recorded history. While emissions from fossil fuels reached new highs, scientists believe the spike was primarily driven by the failure of natural carbon sinks like rainforests and soils to absorb emissions. Drought, heat, and wildfires — intensified by the El Niño climate pattern — severely disrupted ecosystems in the Amazon and central Africa, possibly turning once-reliable absorbers of carbon into sources of pollution. As global temperatures rise, scientists fear we may be nearing a climate tipping point where nature’s ability to buffer human emissions collapses.
Africa's workforce at a crossroads amid climate change
As Africa grapples with the urgent challenges of climate change, its workforce stands at a critical crossroads, necessitating immediate and strategic action to foster a green revolution and avert economic devastation
Trump’s blocking of the energy transition grant to South Africa, the context and implications
Explore how the legacy of apartheid and contemporary propaganda shape South Africa's energy transition, as Trump blocks crucial funding
From BRICS to Burkina Faso: Rethinking South Africa’s Captured Energy Future
Explore how South Africa's energy transition, framed as a moral imperative, is entangled in geopolitical control and donor dependency, contrasting sharply with Burkina Faso's path towards sovereignty and self-determination.
How antibiotic misuse and climate change are fuelling the next pandemic crisis
South Africa's Health Minister warns that antibiotic overuse, climate change, and habitat destruction are creating a 'perfect storm' for future pandemics, with experts predicting 250 000 additional climate-related deaths annually by 2050.
How antibiotic misuse and climate change are fuelling the next pandemic crisis
South Africa's Health Minister warns that antibiotic overuse, climate change, and habitat destruction are creating a 'perfect storm' for future pandemics, with experts predicting 250 000 additional climate-related deaths annually by 2050.
Why corporate responsibility and a human rights approach are essential for a just energy transition
Explore how the climate emergency threatens human rights and why integrating a human rights approach into corporate responsibility is crucial for a sustainable energy transition.
Employers’ responsibilities during severe weather: A look at KwaZulu-Natal
As KwaZulu-Natal faces severe weather challenges, the responsibilities of employers towards their employees come into question. Trade unions and experts weigh in on the duty of care owed to workers during natural disasters.
SA confronts multiple water challenges during National Water Week
The demands of contemporary water resource management have highlighted the need for a reassessment of traditional strategies. While indirect water reuse has historically served as a cornerstone of global water security frameworks, its efficacy is increasingly challenged by the compounded risks of anthropogenic climate change and rapid urban expansion.
How SAWS's new warning system helps save lives during severe weather
The SA Weather Service's revolutionary warning system is changing how South Africans prepare for dangerous weather. Learn how this colour-coded system could help protect your family and property from severe weather impacts.
Heavy rains unleash tragedy in uMgungundlovu District as search teams recover 3 bodies
As heavy rainfall threatens the uMgungundlovu District, residents are urged to remain vigilant and adhere to safety guidelines.
The Budget and the battle for growth: a just transition perspective
Explore the implications of South Africa's first-ever Budget under the Government of National Unity, as it sparks a critical debate on economic growth and climate finance.
Acsa: How decarbonising aviation can drive a sustainable future
Explore how decarbonising aviation not only reduces emissions but also transforms airports into sustainable hubs for the future.
Umzimkhulu River Bridge closure: what you need to know about the repairs
Emergency repairs to the Umzimkhulu River Bridge will begin, with a six month project aimed at restoring safety for motorists and pedestrians.
Urgent need for relocation plans after Lamontville floods
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli visits flood-affected communities, emphasising the urgent need for relocation plans for Lamontville residents and addressing climate change impacts.
How to navigate insurance claims for storm damage
Extreme weather events can wreak havoc on your property, but understanding how to navigate insurance claims can help you recover more swiftly.
KZN on high alert: Orange Level 6 warning issued as severe storms approach
KwaZulu-Natal residents face potentially dangerous conditions as weather authorities escalate warnings to Orange Level 6, with forecasts predicting severe flooding risks and widespread disruption from Thursday evening. Multiple districts are on high alert as authorities warn of significant infrastructure damage and life-threatening conditions.
Devastating rains and floods lead to declaration of state of disaster in KZN
KwaZulu-Natal is responding to severe weather events that have caused significant damage and loss of life, with a national state of disaster declared to coordinate recovery efforts.
International Women’s Day: 20 women who are leading the plant-based food revolution
On International Women’s Day, we honour 20 remarkable women who are revolutionising food systems and championing sustainability through plant-based solutions.
Hlabisa urges immediate action for flood victims in Kwa-Zulu Natal
Over the past month, devastating floods across KZN have claimed the lives of more than 20 individuals and left over 200 others displaced.
Minister Simelane questions the spirit of Ubuntu amidst flood victim displacement
Human Settlements Minister Thembi Simelane addresses the challenges faced by flood victims in KwaZulu-Natal, questioning the community’s commitment to Ubuntu and outlining government interventions for housing and support.