Because of its industries, Ekurhuleni falls within the Highveld priority area, which makes it highly susceptible to air pollution.

Air quality forms the integral part of climate change and negative climate change issues cannot be dealt with in isolation of air quality.

The municipality is therefore calling upon all stakeholders and environmental fundis to participate in this year’s review process of the Air Quality Management Plan.

The plan review process seeks to provide direction on identifying the main sources of air pollution and the extent of their negative impact on human life, to address the effects of emissions from industrial sources, to give effect to best practice in air quality management, as well as to improve air quality amongst other things.

“Ekurhuleni region has numerous sources of air pollution such as domestic coal burning, industries and mining, hence as the city, we aim to channel all our resources to the improvement of air quality,” said metro spokesperson Themba Gadebe.

The stakeholder engagement process will be in a form of meetings, review reports, and the submission of comments during the review process.

Stakeholders wishing to participate in the reviewing process need to register within 30 days of issue.

To register, contact Edmund Van Wyk via email at Edmund.vwyk@ekurhuleni.gov.za or on 011 999 2470/2971, or Abdul Ebrahim at abdul@escience.co.za or 011 718 6380.