Oil or Ocean

There is an onslaught of oil and gas applications, for exploration, seismic surveys and production wells, which we have to respond to.

What are the main issues that ecojustice organisations are raising?

Are EIAs being abused to try to drive unsustainable projects through?

Why we are forced to go to court to defend our ocean? 

How successful are we and how you can be part of defending our ocean?

Each session consists of 20-minute presentations, followed by a joint Q&A session of 15 minutes.

ABOUT LIZ MCDAID

Liz McDaid is a trained scientist with a B.Sc. from the University of Cape Town and a Master of Science in Climate Change and Development from the African Climate Development Institute (ACDI). She also holds a postgraduate diploma in higher education, equipping her with the skills to educate and engage diverse audiences on critical environmental issues. Ms. McDaid is deeply committed to eco-justice, focusing on various areas of research and advocacy. Her work involves conducting policy analysis and making submissions to government on crucial topics, including renewable energy, the health impacts of coal-fired power stations, energy poverty, decentralized energy solutions, and the broader implications of climate change. Ms McDaid believes that good governance with meaningful dialogue and participation is the way to ensure a future liveable planet. She is the strategic lead at the Green Connection, which also goes to court in oil and gas-related cases to ensure community voices are heard in decision-making. In 2023, the green connection went to court and forced the South African president to capitulate and bring the law into force that would enable a people-driven e-energy road map for the country.

A notable aspect of her career includes her leadership in energy governance, particularly in challenging South Africa's proposed unlawful nuclear deal. For her efforts, she, alongside Makoma Lekalakala, was awarded the prestigious 2018 Goldman Prize for Africa. She also monitors and analyzes the South African just energy transition, emphasizing community benefits and job creation. Ms. McDaid engages with a wide range of stakeholders, including government bodies, civil society organizations, grassroots communities, and trade unions. She facilitates dialogues around policy development and produces educational materials to build capacity among diverse groups on topics such as climate change, energy, water, and fisheries. Her experience includes collaborations with international and national organisations such as Groundwork, Project90, SAFCEI , and Bloom. She is also part of the Energy Governance SA network and works with various climate action networks for civil society such as the Climate Justice Coalition.