At the end of last year, the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the Atlantis Special Economic Zone (ASEZ) formalised a strategic partnership aimed at accelerating South Africa’s green economy, industrial revitalisation and inclusive economic growth.
The agreement reflects a shared commitment to supporting South Africa’s transition towards a cleaner, more resilient and globally competitive economy. It establishes a framework for collaboration across key research, development and innovation areas, including smart infrastructure, next-generation information and communication technologies, green manufacturing, advanced mobility solutions and skills development.
A key focus of the partnership is the development of integrated resource management systems that support data-driven decision-making and improve operational efficiency within the Atlantis SEZ. The collaboration also prioritises the establishment of a Learning Factory in Atlantis, which will support the growth of an electric vehicle manufacturing cluster, strengthen local enterprise development and ensure training programmes align with emerging industry needs.
Other areas of cooperation include micro-mobility research, digital infrastructure for smart energy and water systems, climate resilience planning and the advancement of circular economy practices in water and waste management. CSIR Chief Executive Officer, Dr Thulani Dlamini, said the Atlantis SEZ was a strategic partner in advancing green manufacturing, clean technologies, renewable energy and circular economy practices. ASEZ Chief Executive Officer, Matthew Cullinan, said that by combining their respective strengths, the partnership is expected to attract new investment and create opportunities for sustained growth in the green economy.
