Abstract
The article aims to highlight the nature, content and scope of continental and subnational sustainability priorities, with reference to specific perspectives of environmental and economic development, agriculture, food security, energy, health, water and sanitation. As such, subnational governments need to devise sustainable strategies to manage these demands in an efficient manner. As a methodological approach, the authors conducted a desktop analysis of applicable literature and official documents to conceptualise and contextualise the area of investigation. The data collection sources for the desktop analysis included global authoritative books, articles, as well as regulatory, policy and strategy documents in South African context. The methodological approach included unobtrusive research techniques. When studying social behaviour, unobtrusive research techniques encourage contextual and conceptual analysis, while helping to remove bias. Research results highlight the challenging nature of designing and implementing environmental programmes, policies and strategies in South Africa. This is due to inadequate human capacity, chronic resource shortages and inadequate intergovernmental coordination, while the respective responsibilities of national, provincial and local authorities are not clearly outlined. Further challenges include insufficient political will and environmentally sustainable leadership to support the environmental agenda. Keywords: Economic Development, Environmental Protection, Sustainable Development, Sustainability, Natural Resource Management
Highlights
AND INTRODUCTIONThe environment was regarded as extrinsic to humanity’s well-being. It was mostly used and exploited at will, while special areas were demarcated for wildlife conservation
AND INTRODUCTIONUntil recently, the environment was regarded as extrinsic to humanity’s well-being
Challenges relating to the environment and nature were mostly seen as local problems that could be overcome with human knowledge, technology and natural resource management (Chasek & Wagner, 2012)
Summary
The environment was regarded as extrinsic to humanity’s well-being. It was mostly used and exploited at will, while special areas were demarcated for wildlife conservation. As a long-term commitment to sustainable development, the NFSD aligns environmental protection, social equity and economic efficiency with the country’s values and vision It defines country-focused sustainable development principles, while considering global challenges and growth principles (Van der Waldt & Auriacombe, 2014). Phase one (2003-2008): Long-term socio-economic and environmental trends were analysed and related policy initiatives were undertaken These steps informed the vision, goals and strategic priorities of sustainable development, which culminated in the NFSD, as adopted by the Cabinet in June 2008 (Van der Waldt & Auriacombe, 2014). Phase two (2009-2010): A strategy and action plan for 2010-2014 was drafted to help implement the NFSD’s vision, goals and strategic priorities It included proposals for implementing institutional and monitoring and evaluation (M&E) frameworks to drive sustainable development and trace the implementation of NFSD, respectively (Van der Waldt & Auriacombe, 2014). The plan underscored the importance of providing environmentally focused leadership and coordinating government’s approach to extensive, complex and cross-sectoral issues, such as climate change and sustainable development (DEA Strategic Plan, 2009-2014)
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