Staying informed is the first step in the battle for clean air.
A comprehensive study by Greenpeace Africa and CREA reveals that PM2.5 exposure contributed to 42,000 deaths in South Africa in 2023, with health-related costs totaling R960 billion — 14% of GDP.
42,000 deaths attributed to PM2.5 in 2023, including 1,300 children under 5
Health costs total R960 billion (USD 52 billion) — 14% of GDP
9,300 deaths caused by violations of National Air Quality Standards
Gauteng most affected: 16,000 deaths, Highveld Priority Area: 5,600 deaths
Meeting WHO guidelines could save 30,000 lives and R700 billion annually
Eskom identified as operating the most polluting power plants in Africa
30 million work absence days due to pollution-related health issues
91,000 asthma-related emergency room visits in 2023
In a landmark ruling, the Pretoria High Court has ordered the Department of Environment to take immediate action against industrial polluters violating emission limits in the Highveld Priority Area.
The power utility has been granted a 5-year extension to exceed legal pollution limits at 10 coal plants, sparking outrage from health advocates and affected communities.
New data shows childhood asthma cases in Mpumalanga have increased by 340% over the past decade, with doctors linking the surge directly to coal-fired power station emissions.
After a 3-year legal battle, residents of eMalahleni have successfully blocked construction of a new 1,200MW coal power plant, citing constitutional rights to a healthy environment.
The World Health Organization's updated air quality guidelines reveal South Africa's Highveld region exceeds safe PM2.5 levels by up to 8 times, ranking among the worst globally.
Economists calculate that meeting WHO air quality standards would save South Africa R700 billion annually in healthcare costs, lost productivity, and premature deaths.