South Africa proudly hosted the 25th Global Conference on Environmental Taxation (GCET25) in Stellenbosch. The event gathered academics, policymakers, business leaders, and civil-society experts to debate practical tools for climate action and a just energy transition. For updates, resources, and post-conference notices, visit the event hub at gcet25.co.za.
About GCET25
GCET is a long-running international forum focused on environmental taxation, carbon pricing, and green fiscal reform. The 25th edition in South Africa spotlighted North–South collaboration, implementation challenges, and evidence-based pathways for reducing emissions while safeguarding jobs and competitiveness.
Why South Africa Was a Fitting Host
- Energy Transition at the Forefront: With coal-heavy power and growing renewables, the country presents a real-world laboratory for transition policies.
- Regional Leadership: Hosting GCET25 amplified African-led research and ensured that developing-economy perspectives shaped global conversations.
- Academic Ecosystem: Stellenbosch’s research institutions and think-tank networks offered an ideal setting for cross-disciplinary dialogue.
Key Themes Discussed
Delegates explored the design and impact of carbon taxes, emissions trading systems, and incentives for clean technology. Sessions addressed equity (protecting low-income households), competitiveness (carbon leakage and border measures), and how fiscal policies can unlock private capital for resilience and adaptation.
Practical Outputs & Opportunities
- Policy Toolkits: Case studies from Africa, Europe, and the Americas on pricing mechanisms that work.
- Publication Pathways: Authors were invited to develop papers for established environmental-taxation volumes and journals.
- Networking: New partnerships emerged between universities, ministries, municipalities, and industry.
How to Use GCET25 Resources
Students, researchers, and practitioners can leverage gcet25.co.za to find calls for papers, editorial guidance, and summaries of core sessions. Policymakers will benefit from slide decks and briefs on carbon pricing design, revenue recycling, and just-transition support.
Why It Matters for South Africa—and Beyond
By bringing GCET25 to Stellenbosch, South Africa helped align climate ambition with social protection and growth. The conference framed a practical roadmap: price pollution fairly, protect the vulnerable, and invest revenues in clean energy, skills, and innovation.
Final Word
If you’ve been asking “Which international environmental conference was held in South Africa?” — the answer is GCET25. Start with gcet25.co.za to explore outcomes, publications, and the global network driving greener, fairer economies.
