Thungela and the Council for Geoscience (CGS) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to advance research into emission reduction technologies, focusing on carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS). This collaboration aligns with Thungela’s advocacy for accelerated deployment of technologies including CCUS, that mitigate the emissions from coal combustion.
This strategic partnership aims to invest in geoscience-based solutions that support national priorities and international climate agreements, including South Africa’s nationally determined contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement.
This MoU supports the country’s Just Transition Framework, adopted in 2022, paving the way for a diversified energy mix and aligns with climate and development goals. Through this partnership, the two organisations will collaborate on critical activities, including geological mapping, climate change research, and groundwater modelling. The goal is to produce impactful research and practical solutions that address both environmental and economic challenges.
July Ndlovu, Thungela chief executive officer, said: “We are committed to embracing technologies that reduce emissions from coal combustion, ensuring a sustainable global future. As a coal producer and exporter, we recognise the importance of adapting and mitigating emissions. Through this partnership, we will contribute to climate change efforts by developing and implementing geoscience-based solutions that support national priorities and international climate agreements.”
Mosa Mabuza, CEO of the Council for Geoscience, highlighted the importance of this new partnership, saying: “Less than two weeks ago, Minister Mantashe called for stronger public-private partnerships to help South Africa meet its climate commitments. Today’s signing represents a collaborative effort to drive research, development, and implementation of geoscientific programs. The Council for Geoscience is excited about this development, which brings together the expertise and resources necessary to tackle one of the most pressing challenges of our time: carbon emissions.
“By combining our expertise, Council for Geoscience and Thungela are setting the stage for significant advancements in carbon capture and sustainable resource management. This partnership reflects our joint dedication to addressing climate challenges and promoting scientific progress that benefits South Africa and beyond.”
Together, we are working towards a sustainable energy future and the ambitious target of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
For further information, please contact:
| Media Thungela
Hulisani Rasivhaga hulisani.rasivhaga@thungela.com 083 370 2327 |
Bokgabo Tlhaku 082 532 4406 |
| Investor relations Thungela
Hugo Nunes |
Shreshini Singh |
| Media Council for Geoscience
Mahlatse Mononela 067 426 1417 |
Editor’s note:
Thungela, which means ‘to ignite’ in isiZulu, is a large pure-play producer and exporter of thermal coal based on aggregate coal reserves and marketable coal production, operating in South Africa and Australia.
The Group owns interests in and produces its thermal coal from seven mining operations located in the Mpumalanga province of South Africa. These operations consist of both underground and opencast mines: Goedehoop, Greenside, Isibonelo, Khwezela, AAIC (operating the Zibulo Colliery), Mafube Coal Mining (operating the Mafube Colliery), and Butsanani Energy (owning the independently operated Rietvlei Colliery).
In 2023, Thungela, through its subsidiary Sungela, acquired 85% of the Ensham Coal Mine in Queensland, Australia. This marked a significant move towards executing one of the Group’s strategic pillars: geographic diversification. Ensham is an underground operation and the latest addition to Thungela’s portfolio.
The establishment of Thungela Marketing International in the United Arab Emirates underscores Thungela’s commitment to capturing the full margin on our products and engagement with the global commodities market as a global coal producer.
In other parts of the value chain, Thungela holds a 50% interest in Phola Coal Processing Plant and a 23% indirect interest in Richard’s Bay Coal Terminal. The terminal is one of the world’s leading coal export terminals, with an advanced 24-hour operation and a design capacity of 91Mtpa.
Thungela is committed to operating responsibly and igniting value for a shared future. We want to ensure that our mining activities positively impact our employees, shareholders, and communities.
For further information about Thungela, please visit www.thungela.com.
About the Council for Geoscience:
The Council for Geoscience (CGS) is a leading geoscience institution dedicated to advancing knowledge and solutions in the field of geoscience. CGS provides scientific support for sustainable development and resource management.
