Just Transition

In this November 2022 discussion, Uwe Schulte interviews Shamini Harrington, Vice President Climate Change at Sasol and a Presidential Climate Change Commissioner for South Africa, about the company’s sustainability efforts and the broader concept of a “Just Transition”. Harrington details her journey into sustainability and Sasol’s 18-year commitment to environmental issues. Sasol, a major South African energy and chemicals company, is heavily reliant on coal but aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 30% by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. Harrington explains Sasol’s strategy to transition to sustainable fuels and chemicals using Fischer-Tropsch technology, focusing on green hydrogen and renewable energy. She emphasizes the importance of partnerships, policy support, and the need for a careful and inclusive transition that does not exacerbate existing social inequalities. Harrington also highlights the role of the Presidential Climate Commission in fostering collaborative solutions for climate challenges. Finally, she underscores the importance of understanding a company’s emissions and setting clear targets to drive meaningful change.