A landmark deal was struck today at COP26 as South Africa makes plans to end its reliance on coal, with $8.5bn (£6.2bn) in foreign investment being set aside to make it happen. South Africa is one of the most coal-reliant countries on the planet (ranking 12th globally), which it uses primarily to generate electricity in its urban and rural regions. However, coal is one of the most outdated and environmentally unfriendly forms of energy production still in use today, and has drastic health and environmental impacts on people and regions together. Many poorer South Africans have reported the growing noxious smog from the regions where coal is mined and burnt, with a large number of families facing severe health issues as a direct result of the pollution. And although South Africa had plans to reduce its reliance on coal for energy by 60% in 2030, this recently released capital in the form of foreign aid means that the country can move to more sustainable energy sources, faster than ever! The president of South Africa stated: "It is proof that we can take ambitious climate action while increasing our energy security, creating jobs and harnessing new opportunities for investment, with support from developed economies..." We hope that this greener transition won't just be beneficial for the planet, either, but provide infrastructure, security and a new generation of jobs for a more eco-friendly nation. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iBGpsEIHQlk