A study by the South African Medical Research Council indicates that air pollution from coal-fired power plants raises death rates by 6% in surrounding communities. The research utilized actual data regarding health impacts and highlights various health issues related to coal pollution, urging a transition to renewable energy.
A recent study conducted by the South African Medical Research Council has revealed that air pollution linked to coal-fired power plants in South Africa increases the death rate in nearby communities by 6%. This study is notable as it is the first in Africa to utilize actual data instead of estimating the health impacts of air pollution through modeling. The research examined death certificates, childhood pneumonia cases, and government air quality data.
This investigation is a significant effort to quantify the health consequences of South Africa’s 14 major coal-fired power plants, which are responsible for over 80% of the nation’s electricity supply. The reliance on coal has rendered South Africa’s economy, with a population of 63 million, the most carbon-intensive economy globally among nations with populations exceeding four million. “Cardiovascular diseases are a major concern” in areas hosting these plants, according to the SAMRC, emphasizing the vulnerability of children under five years who display a notable increase in pneumonia cases.
Previous estimates indicated that pollution from the state-run Eskom could lead to over 2,000 deaths annually, whilst Eskom’s own evaluation estimated the toll at only 330. Deaths resulted from various pollutants, such as particulate matter, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide. The study was spearheaded by Caradee Wright, who leads the Climate Change and Health Research Programme at the SAMRC, and was financed by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office as part of a climate finance agreement worth $9.3 billion.
Additionally, the study identified an increase in neonatal health issues, revealing that around 60% more infants were born with cleft lips and palates in regions surrounding coal plants. The researchers concluded that the coal power facilities should be decommissioned in favor of renewable energy sources, while advocating for increased public awareness of health risks and enhanced government air quality management practices.
As South Africa embarks on transitioning away from coal dependency, the debate regarding the speed of these coal plant closures continues to be contentious among political figures. The majority of these plants are located in Mpumalanga, a province where the coal mining industry supports approximately 90,000 jobs.
In summary, the study highlights the detrimental health impacts caused by coal-fired power plants in South Africa, linking them to a 6% increase in death rates among local communities. It emphasizes the urgent need for transitioning to renewable energy and recommends improved public health awareness and air quality management. The ongoing transition away from coal remains a complex and debated issue, particularly in economically dependent regions.
Original Source: financialpost.com
