Climate-sensitive mining in Africa: Outcomes from COP27 and expectations for COP28

The global just energy transition and commitment to the Paris Agreement for reduced carbon emissions presents a significant opportunity for several African mining jurisdictions and companies.

But supplying the metals and minerals required for the transition will require an increase in mining activity, which itself has traditionally been a high carbon-emitting sector. Methods for extraction will need to be climate-conscious while also meeting societal expectations for delivering inclusive economic benefits.

Multilateral climate negotiations at successive Conferences of the Parties (COPs) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) have had significant impact on the mining industry, and the pressure for further change is intensifying.

Companies and government are facing tighter regulations, increased reporting and disclosure requirements, and more ambitious emissions targets. It is expected, but not yet clarified how, private companies will contribute towards the pledge of $100 billion a year to developing countries, including the COP27 agreed fund on loss and damage.

Parallel initiatives to COP, including the Just Energy Transitions Partnership with South Africa, will also influence industry priorities.

This event will promote two new pieces of research by the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung, including in partnership with Southern Africa Resource Watch, as well as a new study by the World Bank.

This event is also broadcast live via the Africa Programme Facebook page.

The event is supported by the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung.