According to the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP):

“A green economy is defined as low carbon, resource efficient and socially inclusive. In a green economy, growth in employment and income are driven by public and private investment into such economic activities, infrastructure and assets that allow reduced carbon emissions and pollution, enhanced energy and resource efficiency, and prevention of the loss of biodiversity and ecosystem services.”

The creation of a green economy will also result in a country meeting the objectives of a just transition which aims to ensure environmental sustainability as well as decent work, social inclusion and poverty eradication.  Countries attending the COP26 meeting in Glascow in 2021 agreed to these principles and committed to putting in place measures to ensure it is achieved.

This could be one of the most pressing political and socio-economic issues of the 21st century, particularly as the impact of climate change becomes more intense, affecting millions of people.  At the same time, the increasing cost of living is exacerbating poverty and inequality throughout the world, not just in South Africa.

Renewable energy is often the driver of a green economy.  South Africa offers many opportunities in this sector due to its abundant sun and wind resources.

The Northern Cape province is already at the epicentre of the country’s solar energy projects with millions of rands already being invested by multinationals from around the world.  This is highlighted in the spread of projects in image 1 above.

Many more projects will however be unveiled and showcased at the inaugural Tourism Investment Forum Africa (TIFA) to be hosted in the Upington, Northern Cape, South Africa from 7-9 June 2023.

Aligned to the theme, “Forging Global Partnerships for Inclusive Local Economic Development Through Sustainable Investment”, the Forum aims to bring together the tourism and investment sectors, to create sustainable economic job creation and employment opportunities.

The Forum will cover amongst others the following thematic focus areas, investment opportunities and projects - see image 2 above.