By Rachel Mohamed
Eco-justice groups argue that the government is advancing fossil fuel projects that contradict climate targets. Green Connection and Natural Justice assert that securing South Africa’s shift towards a fair energy and economic future continues to be a challenging endeavour.
Earlier this month, the Western Cape High Court reversed the government’s approval of TotalEnergies’ Block offshore drilling plans between Cape Town and Cape Agulhas.
Speaking to VOC News, Shahil Singh, Legal Advisor at The Green Connection, stated that the common message that has been promoted is that their organisation promotes anti-development. He argues that they are not anti-development but rather seek good, inclusive, and transparent development.
“South Africa is in a transition phase known as the energy just transition, and we urgently need to shift away from fossil fuels and toward cleaner, renewable energy,” said Singh.
Singh further argues that the Republic has an entrenched perspective on energy that is contingent on the fossil fuel industry, which he argues has been detrimental to local communities.
“One of the major issues we see is that South Africa has historically been more involved in fossil fuel development, particularly coal, and as a result, many community members have only seen these types of developments and the limited opportunities they may bring to a few individuals,” argues Singh.
Listen to the full interview:
VOC News
Photo: Pixabay
