The Wild Coast Ruling Is Bigger Than Shell: South Africa's Choice Between Oil and Its Ocean

Petrol and diesel are set for significant increases in September.

But reducing the judgment to a victory for environmental activists or a setback for Shell misses the bigger issue.

The case asks a much harder question: how should South Africa balance its need for energy, investment and economic growth with its responsibility to protect communities and one of its most valuable natural environments?

South Africa has legitimate reasons to explore for domestic energy resources.

The country remains heavily dependent on imported energy, while unreliable electricity and high energy costs have constrained businesses and households. Offshore oil and gas exploration could potentially contribute to energy security, attract investment and create economic activity.