Councillor Jack Sekwaila spearheaded a comprehensive clean-up campaign and public education drive in Meadowlands, Soweto, to mark the International Day for Clean Air for Blue Skies on Thursday, 7 September. Observed under the overarching theme of ‘Together for Clean Air,’ this day underscores the pressing need for robust collaborations, augmented investments, and collective responsibility in the battle against air pollution.
The global undertaking initiated by the United Nations (UN) aims to ameliorate air quality, intensify global consciousness regarding air pollution, and catalyse essential actions by various stakeholders.
Addressing Sowetans, the Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Environment and Infrastructure Services Department (EISD) said everyone has a role to play in cleansing the atmosphere and safeguarding humanity’s well-being.
“A safe, uncontaminated, healthy, and sustainable environment, including clean air, is an indispensable prerequisite for the full realisation of a myriad of human rights,” Sekwaila said.
The MMC noted that the South African Constitution champions the right to an environment that doesn’t jeopardize people’s health and welfare.
“Consequently, it is imperative that, collectively as communities, we safeguard this right by ensuring the cleanliness of our environment. Efforts must be made at the grassroots level to foster comprehension of the air pollution challenge and the necessary measures to address it. Every individual holds a vital part in this endeavour,” he added.
As the economic epicentre of South Africa, Johannesburg contends with a high population density and various economic activities that contribute to air pollution, including industrial operations and heavy traffic congestion. Challenges stemming from rapid urbanisation, migration, and the proliferation of informal settlements have increased the demand for services such as energy supply, waste management, and efficient public transportation, further straining air quality.
MMC Sekwaila emphasised that air pollution was preventable.
“The time for action is now; we must implement the solutions within our grasp. We need to manage our carbon footprint and curtail air emissions to mitigate the immediate consequences of air pollution and combat the effects of climate change. All of this must be achieved as we unite in our pursuit of clean air,” he stressed.
The City has implemented an Air Quality Management Plan designed to ensure clean air becomes a reality for all residents through coordinated efforts that reduce emissions.
“We have recently published revised Air Pollution Control By-laws to deal with issues such as open burning and waste incineration, while also regulating emissions from diesel-powered vehicles. These measures are crucial in ensuring that the public is exposed to air quality levels that meet acceptable standards,” Sekwaila explained.
Notably, Johannesburg boasts eight air quality monitoring stations, providing real-time data on the state of air quality throughout the City.
This information is made accessible to the public through the South African Air Quality Information System’s website and app.
This year, the City dedicated the entire week from Monday, 4 September to Friday, 8 September as Air Quality Week, aiming to heighten awareness of the dire consequences of subpar air quality.
During the commemorative event in Soweto, MMC Sekwaila took the opportunity to disseminate vital information to residents and businesses regarding the prevailing air quality in the City.
The campaign also urged residents, industries, and businesses to recognise their individual contributions to pollution and air quality and encouraged them to take actions that can positively impact air quality.
Written by Dudu Lushaba
07/09/2023