Balancing Economic Development and Environmental Protection in South Africa: Navigating Challenges Post-COVID-19 for Sustainable Growth

The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the economic recession and household affordability crisis, leaving families without sufficient income to afford basic needs and services such as electricity. When COVID-19 reached South Africa, the economy had experienced two consecutive quarters of a recession and an increased unemployment rate. Furthermore, raising household electrical costs exacerbated the situation, prompting individuals to return to traditional low-cost energy generation methods such as burning fossil fuels. Traditional energy generation methods may address immediate energy needs but often pose environmental and health risks. This study explored balancing economic development and environmental protection in South Africa, particularly in the post-COVID-19 era. The socio-economic context of the country, characterised by a high level of inequality, unemployment, and heavy reliance on coal power stations, complicates balancing economic development and environmental protection. South Africa should embrace a green economy. This means that the country should shift from focusing solely on economic growth to focusing on inclusive growth, prioritising both economic growth and environmental protection for sustainable development. These insights are pivotal in balancing economic development and environmental protection. This study investigated the challenges and opportunities associated with sustainable growth. It employed a qualitative research methodology. The findings of the study are relevant to policymakers, furnishing important recommendations for informed decision-making.