May 6, 2025 - With support from key industry players, a new initiative led by nonprofit research organization Coaltech will see the development of South Africa’s first sector-wide framework for managing and reporting Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse-gas (GHG) emissions in coal mining.

The initiative seeks to align the country’s largest coal energy producers with international sustainability standards while supporting national goals under the Climate Change Bill, the Just Energy Transition Investment Plan and South Africa’s Nationally Determined Contributions.

“South Africa’s climate response must be bold, inclusive and informed by reality. Coal remains deeply embedded in our economy, our grid and our communities.

“This initiative is about enabling progress by equipping the industry with credible data, aligned standards and a shared commitment to responsible environmental management while balancing the social and economic needs of the country,” Coaltech CEO Avhurengwi Nengovhela said in a May 6 statement.

The project is driven by Coaltech’s future technologies steering committee (steercom) and marks a shift from intent to action.

By documenting industry progress, showcasing emissions-reduction innovations and identifying opportunities for improvement, it aims to position the coal sector as an active participant in building a climate-resilient economy.

“This project represents a real turning point. It shows that the coal industry is not just reacting to climate expectations. It’s helping to shape the future with science, collaboration and a readiness to evolve,” Coaltech future technologies steercom chairperson Festus Leteane added.

The initiative is supported by a consortium of leading domestic coal producers, consumers and industry associations, representing a significant share of South Africa’s coal value chain.

This collective backing indicates a shared commitment to advancing innovation and sustainability within the sector, Coaltech noted.