Mail & Guardian
Mail & Guardian

Coal Fired Power Plants

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The sulphuric stench that drifted over large parts of Johannesburg last week – described by residents as reeking of “rotten eggs”, “cat urine” and “burning sulphur” – has dissipated.
AIR POLLUTION

“Rotten egg” smell over Joburg highlights toxic air pollution risks

Air pollution in the Highveld Priority Area threatens lives and violates environmental rights, as hydrogen sulphide levels recently spiked over Johannesburg

  • Sheree Bega
9 min read
The Pretoria high court has overturned the government’s plans to add 1 500 megawatts of new coal-fired power to the national grid. (Guillem Sartorio/AFP)
CHILDREN S RIGHTS SOUTH AFRICA

Court overturns South Africa’s coal-fired power plans, protecting children’s health and the environment

1 500 megawatts of new coal power locked in landmark legal victory

  • Sheree Bega
4 min read
Communication professionals have a role to play in bridging this gap, translating the sustainable development goals into relatable narratives that resonate with people and inspire collective action. (Getty Images)
COAL FIRED POWER PLANTS

Implementing Just Transition: Civil society has a crucial role to play

South Africa’s roadmap for the move towards decarbonising the electricity sector must work for people and planet, tackling load-shedding and the climate crisis

  • Courtney Morgan, Leanne Govindsamy and Boitumelo Masipa
7 min read
Eskom will be freed from borrowing more money for its operational needs and capital requirements for the next five years because of the government’s debt relief package and the tariffs approved by the national energy regulator, Nersa. (Photo: Gustav Butlex)
AIR POLLUTION

Eskom’s emissions are not compatible with the South African constitution

The government must not cave to Eskom’s demand that it be exempt from air pollution rules. Furthermore, the power utility needs to stay true to the principles of its own just…

  • Timothy Lloyd
8 min read