Stopping Climate Change with Renewables

Our country suffers from an addiction to coal - 94% of our electricity comes from it, and Eskom is currently building two of the biggest coal-fired power stations in the world (Medupi and Kusile). As a result, we are among the biggest carbon emitters in the world.

If humans continue to burn fossil fuels at the current rate, we risk causing catastrophic climate change. However, all is very far from lost – we are at a critical crossroads, and the right choices now will make all the difference.

The reality is that around the world, countries need to shift away from coal and nuclear power and towards abundant renewable energy – in a real life energy [r]evolution. South Africa is no different.

In presenting the greatest threat the planet faces, climate change also provides a huge opportunity for sustainable development. South Africa has massive renewable energy sources, from wind and marine energy to some of the best solar resources in the world. If we use these resources much more, South Africa would not only make a huge contribution to averting runaway climate change by reducing emissions, but would also create a green economy based on green jobs.

It’s not easy to change, but just because South Africa has been using coal for over a century, doesn’t mean we shouldn’t kick the habit.

Around the world, renewable energy markets continue to grow, and South Africa risks being left in the dust.

To make the shift and to tackle climate change effectively, the government needs to know that South Africans are asking for sustainable energy from renewables.