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A WWF South Africa fact sheet providing key statistics and geographical context for the Cape Floral Kingdom, highlighting its biodiversity and climate.

This report by the Nature-Based Infrastructure Global Resource Centre evaluates the cost-benefit ratio of implementing nature-based infrastructure (NBI) to mitigate flood risks in the Drakenstein Municipality of South Africa, specifically focusing on river restoration in the Berg River catchment.

This report evaluates the potential for solar thermal heating in South African hospitals to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and electricity. While the current adoption is very low (less than 0.5% of thermal demand), the study finds that 20-40% of the 370 GWh annual thermal energy requirement could be met by solar thermal systems. A case study at Paarl Provincial Hospital demonstrates that such systems can be financially viable, achieving a 10% internal rate of return and a levelised cost of heat (LCOH) of R0,62/kWh, even when competing with energy-efficient heat pumps. However, widespread adoption is hindered by high upfront costs, outdated infrastructure, asbestos roofing, and a preference for solar PV systems.

This report by WWF South Africa examines the business case for adopting solar thermal technologies in the South African food and beverage industries to replace non-renewable heat sources. It highlights the potential for significant greenhouse gas reductions, job creation in manufacturing and installation, and financial viability for most fuel replacements other than coal.

This report by GreenCape examines the potential for industrial-scale solar thermal energy in South Africa, specifically focusing on the agri-processing and textile industries. It identifies these sectors as high-opportunity areas due to their requirement for low-temperature heat (below 160 °C). While South Africa possesses high solar irradiation, the report notes that the solar thermal market is currently an 'infant industry' characterized by high capital costs, a lack of skilled installers, and restrictive certification policies. The document provides quantitative estimates of energy and carbon savings potential, analyzes financial drivers and barriers, and offers recommendations for policymakers and industry stakeholders to accelerate the transition from fossil fuels to solar heat.

WWF South Africa's 2016 report 'Water: Facts and Futures' details the critical state of the country's water security. It highlights that while only 8% of land generates 50% of river flow, these Water Source Areas are under-protected. The report identifies severe threats from invasive alien plants, failing engineered infrastructure (with 37% urban water loss), and widespread pollution from sewage and mining. It calls for a 'Water and Sanitation Revolution' focusing on nature-based solutions, groundwater management, and decentralized service delivery to ensure equitable access to safe water.

This industry brief by GreenCape examines the financial and technical feasibility of installing solar photovoltaic (PV) systems on packhouses in the Western Cape, South Africa. It highlights that the primary value of these systems is the replacement of expensive grid electricity with self-generated power during peak daytime cooling and energy-intensive operations, potentially reducing electricity costs by 15%.