Is it working?

Too early to judge progress - with several sections yet to be promulgated as they require regulations to be developed.

Actions

The act has got the ball rolling on a number of important climate action policies such as the finalisation of carbon budgets and specific sectoral targets.

Are there plans?

Although the act was promulgated in March 2025, several sections were delayed for further action in 2025/26. Three sections were gazetted in July 2025, focused on the Presidential Climate Commission (sections 30, 31 and 32) and two sections were gazetted in August, focused on how carbon budgets and mitigation plans will be implemented (sections 26 and 27). A further 15 sections of the Climate Change Act remain to be implemented - they require regulations to be in place.

Is it on the agenda?

Forms part of the National Climate Change Response Policy 2020-2050.

Goals

The Climate Change Act sets sectoral targets for emission reduction, including for large emitters. Along with the carbon tax, it aims to reduce carbon emissions in terms of SA's nationally determined contribution.

References

• Reference Link One

Departments / Govt Institutions

Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment