What is a green economy?

A term often heard around the globe when talking about the future of our planet, is that of a green economy. But what does this mean? According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), a green economy is “one that results in improved human well-being and social equity, while significantly reducing environmental risks and ecological scarcities. In its simplest expression, a green economy can be thought of as one which is low carbon, resource efficient and socially inclusive.”

The green economy model recognizes the interdependence of economic growth and the natural ecosystems and the adverse impact economic activities can have on the environment.

For more information visit:

• United Nations Environment Programme: http://www.unep.org/greeneconomy/AboutGEI/WhatisGEI/tabid/29784/Default.aspx
• Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Green_economy
• United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development (June 2012): http://www.uncsd2012.org/index.php?menu=62
• Earth Summit 2012: Principles for the Green Economy: http://www.stakeholderforum.org/fileadmin/files/Principles%20green%20economy-%20corrected%20(1).pdf
• The Green Economy Magazine: http://www.thegreeneconomy.com/

Why is this important for South Africans?

The South African Green Economy Accord was signed at South Africa’s National Parliament on 17 November 2011 in Cape Town by representatives of the South African Government, business representatives, organised labour and the community constituency.

The Accord was thereafter launched on 29 November 2011 at the COP17 talks in Durban. The Accord includes commitments by stakeholders toward a greener economy in South Africa, whilst the parties work together to ensure greening the economy also promotes employment creation and improves conditions for the poor in particular.

For more information visit the following:

• South Africa Government Information: http://www.info.gov.za/speech/DynamicAction?pageid=461&sid=23648&tid=50584
• The Green Economy Accord: http://www.info.gov.za/view/DownloadFileAction?id=159756
• Mail & Guardian: http://mg.co.za/article/2012-06-06-sas-economy-cleans-up-with-green-jobs-for-greenhorns/