Faizel Patel, Radio Islam News – 30-10-2018
A new analysis of satellite data has revealed that Mpumalanga is the world’s largest Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) air pollution hotspot in the world.
The data, which was taken from 1 June to 31 August this year indicates that coal and transport are two principal sources contributing to air pollution.
NO2 a dangerous pollutant also contributes to the formation of PM2.5 and ozone, two of the most dangerous forms of air pollution.
Speaking to Radio Islam, Green Peace’s Melita Steel says the satellite data reveals that polluters have nowhere left to hide anymore.
“Usually pollution levels are hidden behind things like confidentiality, ‘we can’t disclose that information’, so satellite data is now revealing the true extent of the pollution and in South Africa it’s very scary story.”
The satellite data also revealed Johannesburg and Pretoria are also highly affected by extreme NO2 pollution levels which blow across from Mpumalanga and into both cities due to their close proximity and regular east winds.
Listen to the interview Melita Steele
0 Comments