Climate Change and Regional Development in South Africa: Exploring Emerging Research Trends

Regional development in South Africa is currently undergoing significant transformation as climate change increasingly impacts local economies and governance structures. Notably, the country has not yet fully implemented any climate change legislation, with the Climate Change Act only receiving presidential assent on March 17, 2025. As a result, climate change does not prominently feature in South Africa's research and policy agendas. Adaptation and mitigation efforts frequently arise from pressures unrelated to climate change, leading to fragmented and inconsistent approaches. In an effort to contribute to the current lack of research on climate change and regional development within South Africa, this study conducts a systematic review that examines the 20 most recent Scopus-indexed articles that explore the intersection of regional development and climate change in South Africa. In rapidly evolving fields like climate change, up-to-date research provides essential insights into the latest advancements and shifts in the area of study, making it crucial for a comprehensive review. This study ultimately enhances our understanding of the relationship between regional development and climate change in South Africa by identifying key themes, addressing critical gaps, and outlining effective pathways for the future.