Browsing by Author "de Wet, Marion"

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    Towards an enabling policy and governance framework for the sustainable extraction of unconventional natural gas in South Africa
    (Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2024-03) de Wet, Marion; Burger, Johan; De Wit, Martin; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences. School of Public Leadership.
    ENGLISH SUMMARY: The effectiveness of an enabling public policy and governance framework to facilitate the sustainability, and sustainable development implications, of unconventional gas resources in the South African context is underexplored. This study aims to contribute to the broader body of literature on sustainability and sustainable exploration and production of indigenous unconventional natural gas. Yet, amidst the prevailing policy uncertainty to guide the orderly and sustainable development of an emerging upstream unconventional natural gas sector, the government’s desire to increase indigenous natural gas’ footprint in the primary energy mix towards achieving energy security is underpinned by global environmental concerns relating to carbon footprint reduction. As such, the ideal domestic energy mix should be reliant on a balanced combination of renewable energy sources, conventional fuels, and natural gas. The goal is to achieve energy security whilst simultaneously addressing global environmental concerns and reducing the country’s carbon footprint. By incorporating natural gas as a transitional energy source, South Africa can thus pave the way for a more sustainable and greener energy future. The overarching aim of this study is therefore to develop a cogent, evidence-based policy and governance framework that might be used as an industry best practice standard that will contribute towards the sustainable extraction of unconventional natural gas in South Africa, for when development of this nascent industry occurs. The sustainable extraction of unconventional gas is a complex techno-commercial, economic and ecological balancing act that requires commitment from government, private sector, civil society and relevant research institutions. Supporting and developing indigenous unconventional natural gas is a key government imperative, despite widespread concerns surrounding negative ecological and social impacts. Drawing upon a multidisciplinary framework that incorporates environmental, social, and economic dimensions, this study looks to evaluate the potential benefits and risks associated with the sustainable development of this finite natural resource. This study therefore investigates the complex interplay between sustainability, sustainable development as a basis for sustainable unconventional gas extraction practices, public policy analysis, stakeholder theory and various related governance concepts. The research links various theoretical perspectives and concepts to produce a holistic understanding of challenges and opportunities associated with developing the nascent South African unconventional natural gas industry. Public policy analysis plays a vital role in shaping the regulatory landscape. For the purpose of this study, statutory frameworks governing unconventional natural gas exploration in South Africa were assessed for effectiveness in facilitating the orderly sustainable development of the industry. Existing policies, regulations, legislation and best practices in the industry were critically analysed to identify gaps and recommend strategies for enhancing sustainability in an endeavour to minimise negative externalities. The study further identified areas of convergence and divergence that influence the sector’s sustainable outcomes by scrutinising the alignment between relevant government policy objectives, key stakeholder expectations and sustainable development goals. Stakeholder theory provides the conceptual foundation for understanding the diverse interests, concerns and power dynamics surrounding unconventional natural gas extraction activities. By adopting stakeholder-centric rationality, the research generated a comprehensive understanding of the complex network of relationships that influence the governance and decision-making processes related to unconventional natural gas exploration and production. The efficacy of managing social, environmental, and economic impacts of natural gas upstream activities relies on enabling governance mechanisms. Opportunities were identified to enhance transparency, accountability, and stakeholder participation in relevant decision-making processes by assessing the effectiveness of relevant governance frameworks. This research contributes to the existing body of knowledge as it provides a holistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with sustainable indigenous unconventional natural gas extraction. The collective findings enrich the existing literature by synergistically weaving together diverse theoretical perspectives encompassing sustainability, sustainable development, public policy, stakeholder theory, governance, and a meticulous examination of statutory frameworks. Additionally, the research culminated in an evidence-based, integrated ESG-focused policy and governance framework to guide orderly and sustainable extraction of unconventional natural gas in South Africa.