Some of the country's best political, scientific and business minds are considering how South Africa and Africa can speak with one voice to combat climate change. Countries battling with drought and famine want South Africa as host of COP17 to unite Africa around a clear strategy.
"To potentially center the discussions on the needs of those most vulnerable to the threats of climate change. South African government should seek an outcome that addresses needs and the desires of those poorest countries," says Professor Romy Chevallier, from the SA Institute of International Relations.
Many economies run on coal, oil and other polluting energies. Globally, the northern and southern hemispheres are divided on how to address the issue. Most governments are reluctant to commit funds towards new and cleaner technologies.
"The technologies that have to be adapted or being deployed to deal with the food security should be adaptable and should also be able to meet the challenges that are being faced by Africa in particular and the developing countries," says Dr. Thokozani Simelane, Chief Researcher, Africa Institute of South Africa. Read the full report here.
Source: SABC.
