By STAFF REPORTER
11 November 2026 – The North West MEC for Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), Bitsa Lenkopane has highlighted the importance of linking climate action to investment, job creation and economic opportunities for communities. Lenkopane represented the North West Provincial Government at a high-level panel discussion hosted at the China Pavilion during the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31) in Antalya, Türkiye on 11 November 2026.
She further said the session titled Facilitating High-Quality Carbon Markets to Empower the Global Green and Low-Carbon Transition, focused on how well-regulated carbon markets can accelerate climate action and support the transition to a green, low-carbon economy. Lenkopane added that international delegates and policymakers discussed practical opportunities, strategic frameworks and policy reforms needed to advance credible carbon markets.
“They also explored how multilateral cooperation and reliable carbon market systems could unlock climate finance, attract green investment and help developing economies implement their national climate priorities. The North West province needed to position itself strategically within global climate finance discussions to ensure that climate action delivered tangible benefits for its people.
“Climate action must go beyond discussions. It must translate into investment, job creation, skills development and economic opportunities for our communities, particularly young people, women and SMMEs. The provincial government’s participation in COP31 reflected its commitment to international engagements that connect environmental protection with investment and sustainable socio-economic development,” she said.
