Integrating Climate Considerations into Cape Town's Governance

The City of Cape Town has made significant progress in integrating climate change into its governance frameworks over the past few years.

Unlike other South African governments where climate change is often siloed in environmental departments, Cape Town adopts a risk-based approach, treating climate change as a major risk alongside issues like infrastructure challenges, extortion, and economic constraints.

Climate considerations are embedded into risk management, business continuity, and project/portfolio management. Within the city's enterprise management system, all capital projects are tagged for climate benefits, assessing both community resilience and the project's ability to withstand disruptions.

This integration, active for about three years, enhances data analysis and the portfolio's climate responsiveness. Additionally, climate is incorporated into public communications through the year-long "Let's Act" campaign, encouraging community action in areas like waste, energy, and the environment.

Climate change is also part of the strategic management framework, ensuring it influences short-term planning (1-3 years).

By weaving climate considerations into existing governance processes, such as those mandated by the Municipal Systems Act and Municipal Finance Management Act, the city makes it easier for officials to respond and act effectively.