Coal and Energy in South Africa: Considering a Just Transition

Coal and Energy in South Africa: Considering a Just Transition is a book that assesses the coal industry, theoretical debates about coal, and government's role in a just transition and sustainability. It explores the consequences of shifting social responsibilities, new inequalities, and sustainability concerns created by the likely energy transition in Africa to end the fossil-fuel era.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 260 pages
Publication date: 15 November 2023
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

Introduction:
Coal and Energy in South Africa: Considering a Just Transition is a comprehensive book that assesses the coal industry, theoretical debates about coal, and the government's role in a just transition and sustainability. Comprising 4 chapters laying the conceptual framework and 14 chapters describing the local consequences of mining for a South African medium-sized town, Emalahleni, the book provides a detailed analysis of the current situation of the mining industry. It examines the inequalities it creates, its role in environmental sustainability and health, and the implications of mining practices for business and local government.
Chapter 1: Setting the Stage:
In the first chapter, the book establishes the theoretical framework for understanding the complexities of the coal industry, the debates surrounding it, and the government's role in ensuring a just transition. It explores the historical development of the coal industry in South Africa, the environmental and social challenges it faces, and the political and economic factors that have shaped its trajectory. The chapter also highlights the need for a just transition to address the environmental and social consequences of coal mining and to ensure a sustainable future for both the industry and the broader society.
Chapter 2: Assessing the Current Situation:
Chapter 2 delves into the current situation of the mining industry in Emalahleni. It analyzes the inequalities it creates, its role in environmental sustainability and health, and the implications of mining practices for business and local government. The chapter highlights the challenges faced by the local community, including job loss, health issues, and social unrest, as a result of the mining industry's operations. It also explores the potential benefits of a just transition, such as job creation, economic development, and improved environmental sustainability.
Chapter 3: Discussing the Possible Consequences of Mine Closures:
Chapter 3 examines the possible consequences of mine closures and how a just energy transition can be ensured. It explores the challenges and opportunities associated with transitioning from coal-generated energy to renewable sources, such as solar and wind power. The chapter also discusses the role in promoting the open mining towns and the implications of this for the local community and the environment. It highlights the need for a balanced approach that considers the social, economic, and environmental implications of mining practices.
Chapter 4: Asking Why the Mining Industry, Government, and Unions Promote Open Mining Towns:
Chapter 4 raises the question of why the mining industry, government, and unions promote open mining towns. It explores the political and economic interests behind this promotion and the implications for the local community and the environment. The chapter highlights the need for transparency and accountability in the mining industry and the role of government and unions in ensuring that the benefits of mining are shared fairly and sustainably.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Coal and Energy in South Africa: Considering a Just Transition provides a comprehensive analysis of the coal industry, theoretical debates about coal, and the government's role in a just transition and sustainability. The book highlights the challenges and opportunities associated with shifting social responsibilities, new inequalities, and the sustainability concerns created by the likely energy transition in Africa to end the fossil-fuel era. By examining the local realities in a growing coal and energy town of South Africa, Emalahleni, the book demonstrates the potential for a just transition from coal-generated energy and the local implications of this global restructuring of the energy sector. The book is a valuable resource for policymakers, industry professionals, researchers, and community members interested in understanding the complexities of the coal industry and the need for a just transition to a sustainable future.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474487061