A policy primer for green industrialisation in South Africa

A global transition to low-carbon development pathways, enabled by rapid technological evolution is underway. This transition was initially fostered by policy and the urgency of climate action, primarily to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. The transition is increasingly driven by market forces, as greentech becomes more and more competitive. Global dynamics require that South Africa adapts and responds to the transition, while proactively seeking opportunities in the transition. On the one hand, South Africa ought to protect domestic interests, particularly to ensure a just transition for local vulnerable stakeholders, and enhance the resilience of its economy and population to (climate) shocks. On the other hand, the country must secure its role in the global economy by materially increasing its green competitiveness. This requires thinking differently about industrial policy to progressively shift to green industrial policy and ensure a just transition.