Webinar: Intersections of Climate, Biodiversity, and Economics

Climate change presents a multifaceted challenge for South Africa, with significant socio-economic, financial, and environmental implications. With its diverse ecosystems and reliance on agriculture, mining, and tourism, the country is particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate variability and extreme weather events. Environmental impacts, such as biodiversity loss, habitat degradation, and ecosystem disruptions, threaten both natural resources and the livelihoods of those dependent on them. Additionally, the financial toll of climate change will place additional strain on public resources, affecting infrastructure, healthcare, and disaster response systems.

How South Africa chooses to mitigate and adapt to climate change is, therefore, not only imperative for promoting equity, resilience, and sustainability across all sectors of society, but also for safeguarding South Africa's future prosperity.

The Presidential Climate Commission (PCC) hosted a webinar showcasing three pieces of research related to the fields of mitigation and adaptation in the context of climate change. Leading local and international experts delved into a range of topics aimed at better understanding and addressing these challenges. This event provided valuable insights and thought-provoking discussions for academics, policymakers, and practitioners alike.