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Introduction of local Air Quality Management in South Africa: Overview and challenges

Diab, R.D; Naiker, Y.; Hayes, Enda T; Zunckel, M.

Authors

R.D Diab

Y. Naiker

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Enda Hayes Enda.Hayes@uwe.ac.uk
Prof in Air Quality & Carbon Management/School Director (Research & Enterprise)

M. Zunckel



Abstract

Air pollution control in South Africa has undergone a shift from the best practicable means to an Air Quality Management approach. Previous legislation was out-dated and did not achieve acceptable air quality. Further, policy and legislative developments necessitated a change, in accordance with overarching environmental legislation. The National Environment Management: Air Quality Act (AQA) heralded a new era, introducing international best practice, including the devolution of responsibility to local government and effects-based management.However, South African municipalities, as the incumbent local authorities, face several challenges in implementing AQA. Pollution control falls within the context of competing priorities for basic service provision and economic development in local government. Further challenges include the lack of political will, consultation and communication, the limited use of planning tools, and a non-strategic approach to Air Quality Management. The publication of a strategy document, the National Framework for Air Quality, provides guidance to all levels of government on implementation. Other developments include the publication of national ambient air quality standards, and listed activities and emission standards, development of an Air Quality Management Planning manual, and processes to issue atmospheric emission licenses. Several recommendations are included to address these challenges. © 2011 Elsevier Ltd.

Citation

Naiker, Y., Diab, R., Zunckel, M., & Hayes, E. T. (2012). Introduction of local Air Quality Management in South Africa: Overview and challenges. Environmental Science and Policy, 17, 62-71. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envsci.2011.11.009

Journal Article Type Article
Publication Date Mar 1, 2012
Deposit Date Feb 13, 2012
Publicly Available Date Mar 29, 2024
Journal Environmental Science and Policy
Print ISSN 1462-9011
Electronic ISSN 1873-6416
Publisher Elsevier
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 17
Pages 62-71
DOI https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envsci.2011.11.009
Keywords local air quality management, South Africa, Air Quality Act, air pollution control
Public URL https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/949469
Publisher URL http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.envsci.2011.11.009
Additional Information Additional Information : Available online 13 January 2012