How is climate change affecting the Western Cape?
Climate change is having an increasingly significant impact on the Western Cape, primarily through more frequent and severe weather-related disasters like floods, droughts, wildfires, and coastal storms. Floods in 2023 caused an estimated R3.5 billion (around $186 million) in damages combined, resulting in significant losses to infrastructure and livelihoods.
Our economy is agricultural exports-driven and can ill-afford direct product losses or disruptions to supply chains. Energy security and pricing is also affected by global shifts, and this impacts the cost of doing business.
Climate change impacts are also felt more acutely by the many poor households in the province, given their precarious finances, inadequate housing, and daily exposure to extreme conditions or rising energy prices.
What action are you taking to address climate change?
We have responded with a range of measures such as early warning systems, fire education and management, alien invasive species clearing, and long-term water and drought resilience planning. We are bringing new energy vehicles into public transport fleets. Our goal is to shift away from fossil fuel derived electricity.
Our Provincial Strategic Plan recognizes climate change and resilience as a central theme, and the Western Cape Climate Change Response Strategy serves as a transversal policy framework, placing responsibility on all stakeholders to take up actions that respond to climate change and realising the vision of a net zero, climate resilient Province by 2050. Through the strategy and implementation plan, we have called on everyone to be part of the climate solution.
What are the benefits? Why is it important?
Improved resource resilience and adequate adaptation to climate change are crucial for sustainable growth. Social and economic losses and disruptions must be avoided as they cost us in real GDP and GDP growth. By addressing economic disruptions and ensuring that resources are managed efficiently and sustainably, the Western Cape economy will become less vulnerable to external shocks. This resilience allows industries to operate smoothly and ensures the long-term stability of supply chains, which creates investor confidence, growing businesses and increasing levels of employment.
Secure water and food systems protect households against shortages. Clean air, water, and green spaces enhance health and well-being, while climate-resilient agriculture strengthens food security. Meanwhile, flood prevention, waste management, and ecosystem restoration reduce climate risks. Protecting natural assets like coastlines and biodiversity supports tourism and economic stability. These landscapes provide communities with opportunities to connect with nature, enjoy outdoor recreation, and improve overall wellbeing.
