The truth is that the world is already beginning to feel the negative consequences of climate change, despite the fact that it is often described as a far-off phenomena that will happen 20 or 50 years in the future.
Global temperatures have risen by around 1°C in the last century. Some low-lying coastal towns have already begun to feel the effects of rising sea levels. Extreme climatic events are happening more frequently and with greater intensity.
What are the effects of climate change in South Africa?
Although African countries only contribute a small amount to global greenhouse gas emissions, they bear the brunt of the impacts of climate change. Climate change data shows the effects of climate change, from increases in extreme temperature events to droughts and tropical cyclones. Heat waves may be fatal when temperatures rise. They affect people, animals and plants. Variable rainfall causes flooding in specific regions and drought in others, decreasing agricultural production and raising food prices and food insecurity.
Some retailers are responding to climate change by sourcing food products that are becoming scarce and offering them at special discounts. For example, the Makro specials online feature various products and foodstuffs that are affected by changing weather patterns. In areas where people struggle to afford food, organisations like SA Harvest are making a difference by rescuing healthy food that would otherwise go to waste and distributing it for free to those who need it most.
The “Day Zero” disaster in Cape Town was southern Africa’s worst and most renowned drought. A longer-lasting upward displacement of the winter-rain-bearing Western winds, which bring the cold fronts and rain to Cape Town during the winter months, was a major cause of this drought, though increased water pressure in the City of Cape Town also played a part.
It has been recorded that the timing of apple and pear blossoming in the southwest Cape and jacaranda flowering in Gauteng is now earlier, which reflects the temperature increases in the country. Sardine runs along the south coast of KwaZulu-Natal have also been delayed due to warmer sea surface temperatures.
What does Climate Risk really mean for African economies?
These changes influence agriculture and tourism, but more significantly, they show how the ecosystem is being impacted by climate change. There is a limit to how long these timing changes may last. Beyond specific points, the effects of climate change will cause at least local extinction in both plants and animals; at most, the ecological consequences could be devastating.
How do we adapt to climate change?
According to the World Bank’s Country Climate and Development Report (CCDR), South Africa can combat climate change and concurrently develop a more accessible and sustainable economy. Three strategies need to be implemented to achieve this:
Implementing a low-carbon transition, cutting greenhouse gas emissions and investing in new technology. This includes weather-driven design and construction of urban areas. This will improve production, boost competitiveness and cut pollution, benefiting people, the environment and food security.
A climate-resilient transition is essential to reduce the effects of climate change on South Africa’s agriculture, cities, infrastructure and population. The most impacted are towns along the coast, undeveloped peri-urban regions, and impoverished agricultural provinces. Prioritising investments in ecosystem restoration, sustainable land management, micro-irrigation and agronomic techniques can boost resilience and lower greenhouse gas emissions.
Supporting a just transition. Because they are less equipped to handle them and are more vulnerable to climate threats, keeping an equitable change is essential for helping people experiencing poverty. According to the CCDR, between 2022 and 2050, two to three jobs might be produced for every job lost due to the transition to a low-carbon economy. Joint public-private actions are required to foster the development of new skills and promote labour market migrations. To help workers throughout the change, social aid, labour market mediation and reskilling initiatives must be strengthened.
In conclusion, the impact of climate change on South Africa is already being felt. However, some steps can be taken to adapt to climate change and build a more sustainable and resilient future. By embracing the strategies outlined in the CCDR, South Africa can mitigate the effects of climate change, improve food security, protect ecosystems, and promote sustainable economic development. This requires collaboration between the government, private sector, and communities to drive change, invest in renewable energy, promote sustainable land management, and support those impacted by the transition.
Adapting to climate change is an urgent necessity and an opportunity to build a more sustainable and inclusive society. By prioritising climate action and implementing these strategies, South Africa can navigate the challenges of climate change and create a more resilient future for its people and the environment.
