In responding to climate change, the Department published the National Climate Change Response Policy White Paper in 2011. The White Paper sets out South Africa's vision for an effective climate change response and a transition to a climate resilient and low-carbon economy and society. The Department's work focuses on realising the policy recommendations contained in the White Paper. The Department also played a critical role in the hosting of the 17th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP17) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) held in Durban, from 28 November to 11 December 2011. The Department hosted an exhibition on South Africa's climate change response as a side-event during the COP17 Conference. This provided a unique opportunity for green economy players to profile their work and products and for Government to signal its commitment to encouraging a green economy growth path. This conference also provided a rare opportunity for South Africa to broaden the nation's climate change awareness, and for communicating the country's national policy response to the phenomenon.