The reality of climate change is undisputed, even though the extent of it has been the cause of major controversy in recent times. However, focusing on environmental responsibility in a country with below average or lacking infrastructure seems foolish.
In the article "Climate Change: A Load of Rubbish" (Resource - 1 February 2010), Nelson Mandela Bay Metro (NMBM) head of environmental management systems (EMS) Elana Kleef highlights the importance longer-term energy solutions in South Africa.
The NMBM has shown remarkable commitment to the implementation of environmentally responsible development. The municipality accepted an eight million rand bond from the Infrastructure Finance Corporation Limited (INCA) in September 2009. The loan will be put towards infrastructure development, with compliance to "all environmental legislation" as part of the loan agreement.
The commendable Solar Water Heating Pilot Project forms part of NMBM's infrastructure development. Through the programme, the municipality provided solar water heaters to 1 200 low cost houses in 2009.
Arguing that this programme was rolled out due to environmental concern is insulting to the 1 200 households that had no access to hot water. Furthermore, all the greenhouse gas savings in the world can't take away from the fact that Eskom couldn't provide electricity to those households, even if they could afford traditional geysers.
Alternative energy solutions are cheaper than traditional energy sources, even though the initial investment tends to be higher. Furthermore, alternative energy resources ensure sustainable infrastructure development that is not dependent on the stability of Eskom.
Climate change should be a high priority to local governments, but investing in alternative energy resources purely out of environmental concern is putting the cart before the horse. Alternative energy solutions will give more South Africans access to the most basic services. Surely that's the biggest priority.