When South Africa adopted the Green Economy Accord it joined many other countries that were adopting policies to support sustainable socio-economic development through green economy
investments. However, the South African economy remains reliant on the depletion of natural resources which places great strain on the environment. The authors of this book argue that
substantial greening of the economy is essential for a transition to a sustainable society. To achieve a green economy means a co-ordinated approach to making all sectors more
resource-efficient, less carbon-intensive and more restorative of natural systems. It means social reconstruction to reduce poverty and inequality and create decent livelihoods and green jobs
that are environmentally sustainable and socially just. It means forming new infrastructures ? for electricity, transport, ecology, the urban environment and waste management. It means shifting
the flows of finance. It means social activism. This book argues for a review of South Africa’s existing economic growth model. It assesses the challenges to and possibilities for a transition
to a sustainable future.
