Knowledge of the Just Transition at a low rate, which raises concerns on how to bridge this gap. Image: Renew Africa
(The Post News)- In the previous week, the Presidential Climate Commission (PCC) had released a research report, having detailed perceptions and attitudes towards climate change and the Just Transition in South Africa. The report is based on a nationally representative survey which was conducted in 2023, which aims to fill a significant knowledge gap regarding public support for policy changes essential for effective action.
In the survey, it has been revealed that environmental issues ranked low on the priority list for most South Africans, as unemployment, crime and safety, and corruption are identified as the top concerns. This trend now raises questions about the urgency with which climate change is viewed by the general public given the fact that close to three-quarters of the country have been exposed to extreme weather events in the past ten years.
The ones who were affected by these weather events are more aware of climate change and have expressed a desire to take action. Despite the heightened awareness rate, only less than one fifth acknowledge humans are the primary driver of climate change. The percentage of individuals reporting high levels of concern about climate change has decreased from 50% in previous years to 45% in 2023, which suggests a troubling disconnection between lived experiences and broader environmental consciousness.
The “Just Transition” is a term which remains largely unfamiliar to the general public, having only having 9% having heard the term and know what it means, on the other hand, a larger population of 72% had some awareness of efforts to transition away from coal power.
There are some concerns lingering regarding the potential impacts on electricity prices and job security, having about 28% claiming they are worried about job losses and one-third fearing increased electricity costs.
Over 51% have viewed the transitions as a potential solution to the ongoing load-shedding crisis, while 41% saw it as an opportunity for economic growth, the survey has underscored the demand for robust social and economic policies to mitigate impacts of the Just Transition.
Respondents have expressed a preference for national government oversight, but various stakeholder groups have varied, with businesses and local governments receiving less confidence.
The report’s findings serve as a critical baseline for understanding South African public attitudes towards the Just Transition, ongoing efforts to educate the public about the Just Transition and its implications are essential.
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