A damning new report by Greenpeace Africa and the Center for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA) reveals that South Africa’s air pollution levels far exceed World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines, with coal-fired power plants being the largest source of deadly particulate matter.
The report highlights that PM2.5—fine airborne particles produced by burning coal—is responsible for an estimated 42,000 premature deaths annually, including 1,300 children under five. These pollutants contribute to severe health conditions such as respiratory infections, heart disease, dementia, and stroke.
Key Findings:
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Eskom’s coal dominance: South Africa’s electricity sector, heavily reliant on coal, is the biggest emitter of PM2.5.
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Economic toll: Health impacts cost the economy R960 billion per year.
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Worst-affected regions: The Highveld (including KwaZulu-Natal), North West, and Mpumalanga provinces face PM2.5 levels double the national standard and up to 10 times higher than WHO limits.
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Health consequences: Communities report stillbirths, miscarriages, and chronic illnesses linked to pollution.
Activists Demand Action
Environmental groups are urging the government to enforce stricter air quality standards and end exemptions for Eskom and other major polluters under South Africa’s Minimum Emission Standards.
“This report makes the invisible killer visible,” said a Greenpeace Africa representative. “The devastating impact of air pollution can no longer be ignored.”
Community activists, particularly from high-risk areas, expressed frustration over underreported deaths. “There are more deaths in my community linked to air pollution than what’s covered in these reports,” one advocate stated.
Call to Government
The report serves as a critical tool for lobbying policymakers to transition away from fossil fuels and implement cleaner energy solutions. Activists stress that without urgent intervention, the health and economic burden will continue to rise.
As South Africa grapples with its energy crisis, the findings underscore the dire need for sustainable reforms to protect public health and the environment.