The Lekwa Municipality, in partnership with the Gert Sibande District Municipality, hosted an Air Quality Awareness Campaign at Stanwest Hall in Sakhile on June 3, bringing together various government departments to educate residents about the importance of air quality monitoring in protecting public health and the environment.

The campaign was held in Lekwa because the municipality is located in an area surrounded by industries that contribute to carbon emissions. Lekwa is also home to an air quality monitoring station that assists the South African Weather Service (SAWS) in collecting vital air quality data in Standerton and surrounding areas.

During the awareness session, community members were informed about the critical role air quality monitoring stations play in safeguarding environmental and public health.

Residents were encouraged to help protect these facilities from vandalism, as they provide essential information for monitoring pollution levels and supporting environmental management efforts.

Officials also educated residents about everyday activities that contribute to air pollution. With winter conditions often worsening air quality, community members were urged not to burn unwanted waste, a practice that significantly increases pollution levels.

Instead, residents were encouraged to use the municipality’s waste collection services to dispose of waste responsibly, helping keep communities cleaner and healthier.

Speaking at the event, Gert Sibande District Municipality MMC for Community and Social Services, Nomkhosi Zulu, highlighted that many residents are unaware of the purpose and importance of air quality monitoring stations. She emphasised that these facilities play a crucial role in monitoring the air people breathe and protecting public health.

Zulu said the campaign aimed to broaden public understanding of the stations and create a platform for discussions on how communities can work together to safeguard the facilities and contribute to a cleaner environment.