The transformative role of the planning profession in adaptation to and mitigation against climate change: the case study of Umlazi township.

Abstract

In a 4th industrial revolution world, cities are recognized as essential places for tackling the prominent environmental issue of climate change, both by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adjusting to the adverse impacts of climate change. In its accelerating form more especially in developing countries, it is best to address both the causes and the impacts climate change has holistically. Besides, allowing both these strategies to take place enables other professions to contribute towards achieving the common goal of reducing or rather eradicate climate change. The main purpose of this research study is to investigate the transformative role that the town planning fraternity plays in adaptation to and mitigation against climate change using Umlazi Section H, eThekwini Municipality, as a case study. The research method used for this study was qualitative approach. The method was used in conjunction with in-depth interviews, focus groups and observation to gather data. The study revealed that the planning profession plays a vital role in conjunction with other departments/branches such as the environmental planning and climate protection and the department of transport in achieving climate change adaptation and mitigation. The study found that this is achieved through monitoring and reducing greenhouse gas emissions from both private cars and public transport, advocating for green building designs, and transitioning from coal-based energy to renewable energy, and managing land use. To build on this success, the researcher recommends that the collaborative teamwork between the involved departments continues and for each department to play its role to ensure effectiveness and efficiency of these strategies.