This was the first time they really saw the elephant for what it was – a great big behemoth crashing through the highly polished table laden with fine crockery. Now was the time to do something.

Our government released its vision, strategic direction and framework for climate policy for South Africa at the end of July this year. The reaction throughout the world has been nothing short of amazement. Why did this developing country, with only around 1% of the world’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, come up with such a farre aching approach? Why is it ahead of the US?

Some in the local media, addicted to bashing South Africa, had a go at the statement. Some saw it as hot air from Marthinus van Schalkwyk, the environmental minister. Others suggested industry would retaliate against another ill-considered government faux pas. But they are wrong. This time the big hammers in Eskom, Sasol and industry were in the room with NGOs, government, researchers and trade unionists. All were there for the examination of our elephant and everyone agreed with the measurements. In short, the government statement sits atop a remarkable consensus. The basis of this consensus can perhaps best be illustrated with one of the central pictures that emerged from the Long Term Mitigation Scenario (LTMS) study upon which the strategic vision is based (see diagram).