Introduction

Countries no longer experience changes in siloes. This can be the result of the introduction to wide-scale globalisation. However, the impacts of globalisation are not just felt economically, culturally or socially, but also felt environmentally. Many parts of the world experience the environment differently. Consider the four major types of African biomes: deserts, tropical and subtropical grasslands, savannahs and shrublands. Even with these classifications, the varying ecosystems are not fixed but rather converge with other ecosystems that in turn creates co-dependency. It is through this co-dependency that we have been able to thrive and live as we have for many centuries. 

Climate Change in South Africa

In South Africa, the climate change conversation has grown wider, and the effects of climate change have grown harsher. Climate change is known to cause an exasperation of the existing climate. For example, if an area is known for seasonal flash floods, climate change may cause the seasons to widen causing drought. Across South Africa, provinces are known to experience climate change exasperation to the extent that livelihoods are put at risk.

What does Climate Change look like for South Africa?

The Free State Province, which is commonly used as grazing ground for livestock farmers and receives more rain than typical desert areas, has recently been struck with severe drought and has caused minimal rainfall to make rivers fall above what is needed. In the Northern Cape province, the South African Weather Services warned of a yearly global weather phenomenon El Niño to cause an increase in drought and an increase in hot temperatures. The Western Cape province, known for hot summers and wet winters, has had a drastic prevalence of wildfires; the cause: shrub lands that are filled with highly flammable vegetation. The Kwa-Zulu Natal province has had constant occurrences of floods that are caused by thunderstorms and heavy rainfall; the Kwa-Zulu Natal government have instituted category level warnings to alert residents because of how dangerous the floods were. In January 2024, the Gauteng province has been plagued with flash floods that have penetrated through traffic, entered shops and has left many residents and motorists with unimaginable expenses.

The South African Ecosystem

South Africa is a rich nation, bursting with divine ecosystems, climates and unique natural resources. While that highlights the beauty of the country, it still speaks of the many risks associated with having a diverse, widespread climate. Varying natural disasters pose risks that can lead to an eco-dependent calamity. Those cases have all occurred within the past year, and researchers have shown that matters will only worsen if nothing is done. Institutions like the United Nations, and the World Bank have found ways to incorporate environmental responsibility as a key part of problem-solving.

We can blame it on the lack of infrastructure development, lack of adequate leadership, the fact that we are less than 30 years into democracy, or failure to handle the disasters. However, no matter the reason, it is clear that urgent attention should be given to research methods that outline our uniqueness in order to better mitigate the potential disasters of the future.