In today’s interconnected world, pursuing sustainable development has become increasingly important for societies everywhere. With its diverse ecosystems, rapid urbanisation and growing population, Africa faces distinctive challenges and opportunities on the path to achieving sustainability, a path which requires collaboration, knowledge and expertise, future thinking and impactful solutions.

As an independent organisation with global reach and leading expertise, business improvement and standards company BSI is in a unique position to impartially identify regional and global sustainability trends.  It understands what best practices exist to positively impact organisations and society, drive change and enhance lives.

BSI Growth Director Martin Townsend says: “We are a signatory of the UN Global Compact, the world’s largest sustainability network and proud to be aligned with and committed to advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Our comprehensive approach to sustainability which covers the three pillars of ESG – environmental, social and governance – enables us to make a positive impact through our own actions, and assist our clients [to] make tangible and impactful sustainability choices, ultimately accelerating progress towards a better future and a sustainable world.”

In carving out a path towards achieving sustainability objectives across Africa, the organisation looks at several trends locally and the opportunities emerging from successful practices across other continents.

Renewable Energy Transition
One of the most prominent emerging trends in Africa is the shift towards renewable energy sources. From 2019 to 2020 alone, solar and wind capacity increased by 13% and 11% respectively, and hydropower soared by 25%. The World Economic Forum reports that North Africa is the continent’s current leader in renewable energy capacity, and the largest increase is expected in Central Africa, when all under-construction projects are completed, and renewable energy capacity is set to double. Africa can learn from regions like Europe, which has more than doubled renewable energy consumption since 2004.

Conservation and Biodiversity Protection
Africa has remarkable biodiversity, with unique ecosystems such as the Serengeti, in Tanzania, and the Okavango Delta, in Botswana. The continent, however, faces threats of illegal logging, poaching and habitat destruction resulting in 65% biodiversity loss since 1970. Learnings can be taken from South America, where in 1998 the Brazilian government pledged to conserve 10% of its Amazon rainforests. This led to collaboration between the government, WWF, the World Bank and the Global Environment Facility, resulting in the establishment of the Amazon Region Protected Areas Programme. Funds from this are used to finance protected areas indefinitely.

Waste Management and Circular Economy
Africa’s waste generation is expected to reach 244-million tons by next year, almost double that of 2012, highlighting the importance of improved waste management strategies. Europe, where the EU Commission adopted the circular economy action plan in 2023, serves as a valuable example of how regions can embrace a circular economy mindset to reduce pressure on natural resources and improve their waste strategies. By incorporating sustainable waste management practices, Africa can reintroduce secondary resources, minimise pollution, conserve resources and create green jobs.

Mining Sector
Africa has abundant natural resources and is home to nearly 30% of the world’s natural mineral reserves, 8% of natural gas and 12% of oil reserves. This offers immense potential for economic growth. The mining sector, however, faces sustainability challenges related to environmental conservation, social responsibility and economic diversification. The Oceana region’s sustainable mining initiative ‘Towards Sustainable Mining’ provides a framework example for the development of sustainable mining practices. By adopting responsible mining practices and emphasising the social well-being of mining communities, Africa can progress towards sustainable mining operations.

Carbon Reduction Strategies
Addressing carbon emissions is crucial for sustainable development. If we continue to produce carbon emissions at our current rate, global temperatures are expected to rise beyond 1.5 degrees - levels that will threaten the lives and livelihoods of people everywhere. There are valuable insights from countries like Germany and Switzerland, where significant progress has been made in carbon reduction strategies. Transitioning to cleaner energy sources, investing in research and innovation, and providing policy incentives can all shift the dial.

Africa’s pursuit of sustainability can be accelerated by embracing emerging trends and adapting and/or adopting successful practices from around the globe. Collaboration, innovation, and shared knowledge will play a crucial role on this journey, and BSI is here as a trusted partner to facilitate this transformation. Turning ambition into action together, we accelerate progress towards a fairer society and a sustainable world.