By Nkosana Khumalo
President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Dr Crispian Olver as the new Deputy Chairperson of the Presidential Climate Commission (PCC), effective from 1 November 2024. Dr Olver, who has been a pivotal figure within the PCC, succeeds Mr Valli Moosa, the former Deputy Chairperson who retired earlier this year. Dr Olver has been deeply involved in the commission’s work since its inception, serving as the Executive Director and supporting the commission’s mission to oversee South Africa’s just transition to a low-carbon, climate-resilient economy. His experience in environmental policy and sustainable development makes him a valuable asset to the PCC in this leadership role .
Background on the Presidential Climate Commission
The PCC was established following the Presidential Jobs Summit in 2018 as a multi-stakeholder body tasked with coordinating South Africa’s climate strategy. It was formally instituted as a public entity under the Climate Change Act, signed by President Ramaphosa in July 2024. The commission is focused on guiding South Africa’s transition from a coal-reliant economy to one centred around renewable energy and sustainable practices. The PCC also aims to address the socio-economic impacts of this transition, ensuring it remains inclusive and beneficial for all South Africans  .
Dr Crispian Olver’s Expertise and Contributions
Dr Olver brings a wealth of expertise to his new role. He previously served as the Director General of the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism from 1999 to 2005, where he led initiatives that shaped much of South Africa’s environmental legislation. His leadership extended to organising South Africa’s hosting of the World Summit on Sustainable Development in 2002, an event that highlighted global challenges in climate policy and sustainable development. His experience positions him well to steer the PCC towards South Africa’s climate goals  .
Valli Moosa’s Legacy and Contributions to the PCC
Mr Valli Moosa, the outgoing Deputy Chairperson, played a foundational role in establishing the PCC and shaping its initial direction. With a legacy of service in both government and environmental sectors, Moosa’s contributions were instrumental in aligning the commission’s work with South Africa’s climate ambitions. As one of the country’s notable environmentalists and a former Minister of Environmental Affairs, Moosa has been recognised for his commitment to sustainability and his efforts to embed climate considerations into South Africa’s policy framework  .
South Africa’s Path to a Just Transition
Dr Olver’s appointment aligns with South Africa’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Under the Climate Change Act, the PCC is tasked with engaging government, industry, and civil society to foster consensus on climate action. This includes addressing economic inequalities and supporting communities impacted by the shift from coal-based industries. Dr Olver emphasised that South Africa’s climate response needs to balance environmental targets with socio-economic realities, especially given the challenges posed by the nation’s dependence on fossil fuels and limited resources for transitioning  .
President Ramaphosa has expressed confidence in Dr Olver’s ability to drive this agenda forward, stating that the PCC under Olver’s leadership will continue to engage various stakeholders to ensure that climate action aligns with South Africa’s development goals. The appointment also reaffirms South Africa’s commitment to contributing meaningfully to the global climate agenda, as the nation grapples with the environmental and economic pressures of transitioning to a sustainable future.
Dr Olver’s tenure as Deputy Chairperson is expected to bring continuity and renewed vigour to the PCC’s mission, further solidifying South Africa’s position as a regional leader in climate resilience and sustainable development.
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