Air Pollution In South Africa: Understanding The Main Causes

Air pollution is a pressing issue in South Africa, causing a high number of deaths and illnesses, particularly in children. The country's heavy reliance on coal and petroleum for electricity generation and transport is a major contributor to poor air quality, with high levels of nitrous oxide and sulphur dioxide in the atmosphere. South Africa is the largest emitter of sulphur dioxide on the continent and also leads in carbon dioxide emissions. Greenpeace Africa has called for urgent action to address the problem, and while the country has implemented a carbon tax, it may not be enough to significantly reduce emissions.

Fossil fuels

The burning of coal, oil, and gas releases toxic sulphur dioxide and sulphur trioxide, together known as sulphur oxides, into the atmosphere. These emissions contribute to the formation of particulate matter, a mixture of solid particles and liquid droplets found in the air, which is considered a significant source of air pollution. Fine particles, measuring 2.5 micrometres in diameter or less, can penetrate deep into the lungs and cardiovascular system, causing inflammation and contributing to cardiovascular diseases.

In addition to the health impacts, the economic costs of air pollution from fossil fuels in South Africa are significant. According to a report by Greenpeace Africa, the estimated total cost of air pollution from fossil fuels in the country is approximately R94.7 billion every year. This includes losses due to deaths, diseases, and working days lost. The social cost of fossil fuel combustion in South Africa has been estimated at R550 billion per year by the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD).

Furthermore, South Africa's fossil fuel industry has been identified as a top source of Africa's air pollution. The country's use of coal, gas, and other hydrocarbons produces hundreds of millions of tonnes of emissions annually, contributing to the continent's severe air pollution challenge. South Africa is one of Africa's most polluted countries in terms of air pollution disease burden, with profound health consequences for its people.

However, there are some promising signals of a shift away from coal in South Africa. The country has abundant solar and wind resources, and there are plans to transition to these renewable energy sources. For example, Eskom has proposed a USD $10 billion plan to shut down most of its coal-fired plants by 2050. Additionally, partnerships formed at COP26 aim to mobilise USD $8.5 billion to support South Africa in ending its reliance on coal.

Road transport

Vehicle emissions are a major source of particulate matter, which is a significant component of air pollution. These particles, especially those that are 2.5 micrometres in diameter or smaller, can penetrate deep into the lungs and cardiovascular system, causing inflammation and contributing to cardiovascular diseases (CVD). The health effects of exposure to air pollution from vehicles include premature birth, low birth weight, asthma, and lung diseases, which can be particularly dangerous for newborns and young children.

South Africa's road transport emissions are closely linked to the country's energy consumption. The transport sector relies heavily on fossil fuels, particularly coal and petroleum, for energy. Coal burning, along with vehicle emissions and industrial activities, was identified as a primary cause of ambient particulate matter, which led to the deaths of over 3,365 children under five years of age in South Africa in 2021.

To address road transport emissions, South Africa should focus on implementing strategies to control the number of vehicles on the roads and promote the use of alternative, cleaner energy sources for transportation. Additionally, the government should prioritize the development of infrastructure and technology that supports more sustainable modes of transportation, such as electric or hybrid vehicles, to reduce the country's reliance on fossil fuels.

Furthermore, South Africa can benefit from international cooperation and the sharing of knowledge to effectively address the issues of air quality and atmospheric pollution. By working together with global partners, South Africa can develop and implement more effective mechanisms to combat air pollution and improve the health and well-being of its citizens.

Industrial activities

One of the primary industrial sources of air pollution in South Africa is the burning of fossil fuels, particularly coal, for

Coal burning power plants

South Africa is the seventh-biggest coal producer in the world and has rich coal deposits concentrated in the northeast of the country. As a result, coal-burning power plants are a major source of air pollution in South Africa. Around 81% of South Africa's energy needs are directly derived from coal, and 81% of all coal consumed domestically goes towards electricity production. South Africa intends to continue utilizing these resources despite energy security concerns.

The burning of coal releases toxic sulfur dioxide and sulfur trioxide, together called sulfur oxides, into the atmosphere. Coal-fired power plants are the primary source of these emissions, particularly in the Limpopo, Gauteng, and Mpumalanga provinces. These provinces have been identified as hotspots for high concentrations of SO2, which has severe impacts on air quality.

In addition to SO2 emissions, coal-fired power plants also contribute to the release of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and gases such as nitrogen dioxide (NO2). These pollutants have significant health repercussions, with particulate matter being particularly damaging to the heart and lungs. Exposure to fine particles can cause cardiovascular inflammation, increase blood clots, and lead to hypertension, heart attacks, and heart failure.

South Africa's electricity sector relies heavily on fossil fuels, which contributes to the high levels of nitrous oxide and sulfur dioxide in the air. While the country has implemented renewable energy initiatives, such as the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPPP), the majority of its power still comes from fossil fuels, with coal being the dominant source.

To address the air pollution caused by coal-burning power plants, South Africa needs to transition towards renewable energy sources and reduce its dependence on coal. The country has access to solar photovoltaic (PV) and wind power, but more effective policies and strategies are needed to incentivize the use of non-fossil-fuel-based energy sources and improve air quality.

Aircraft, rail, and shipping emissions

Aviation emissions are a significant concern, especially at major airports such as O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, which is Africa's busiest airport. Aircraft emissions include a range of pollutants, such as nitrogen oxides (NOx)

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