We needed to revisit this question recently after our meetings with Allan Gray and Ninety One (see story above). The upshot: divestment alone cannot stop climate breakdown, but does have massive influence.

We’ve had many engagements with university students and some with lecturers at UCT and Stellenbosch University this year. They were far more receptive to our divestment message than than the asset managers Allan Gray and Ninety One, whose dismissals challenged us to explore, once again, the power of divestment.

At the Clean Creatives’ Climate Mixer event in March 2025, agency CEOs encouraged their peers to be “part of the climate solution, not part of the problem” and described how purpose-driven businesses reap better profits.

V&A Waterfront has revoked permission for FFSA’s Investment Justice Walk to enter its precinct, forcing a route change. FFSA criticises this decision as undemocratic and inconsistent with the Waterfront’s stated commitments to sustainability and inclusivity. The walk, highlighting ethical investment and climate justice, will proceed on 15 November as planned.

FFSA’s Investment Justice Walk on 15 November 2024 will spotlight SA asset managers still funding fossil fuels. The walk, from St. George’s Cathedral to the V&A Waterfront, will highlight the role of finance in shaping society and call for ethical investment.

Fossil Free South Africa launched the Planet A Investment Guide, the country’s only ethical investment advisory. The guide highlights three sustainable South African funds as alternatives to fossil fuel investments. FFSA urges investors to seek expert advice while considering ESG-friendly options.

The Advertising Regulatory Board's appeal committee has dismissed TotalEnergies' appeal against a verdict in our favour − a warning to fossil fuel companies against greenwashing.

The Advertising Regulatory Board (ARB) has upheld Fossil Ad Ban's (FAB) complaint against TotalEnergies, rejecting their appeal. The ruling challenges misleading greenwashing claims, emphasizing the need for companies to back sustainability promises with real actions. FAB sees the decision as a victory for climate accountability.

You might be hooked on the glorious 2024 Paris Olympic Games after being amazed at the razzle-dazzle of the opening ceremony, as are we.

“Humankind will will not solve the climate crisis until it is interwoven into expressions of popular culture, including music and art.”

We’ve take this observation from several of our fellow climate activists to heart, so our second Gaza event takes a creative approach.

The rebuilding of Gaza could be a lightning rod for sustainable development across the region.

This overview was drafted by and edited with the assistance of an FFSA supporter who is an ESCA-registered Pr. Eng., with 12 years work experience in energy efficiency. Comments and possible updates are welcome.

 Our team is complete after months of finding new staff. We’re delighted to have a passionate, skilled and upbeat group of people who have hit the road running.