Eco Minute 13:30

BULLETIN 1 April 1:30 pm

Good afternoon, here is your Eco Minute:

# Environment minister Dion George has granted Eskom air-pollution exemptions for eight coal power stations but insists this is not a blanket reprieve. The exemptions, lasting five years for six stations and until 2034 for two, come with strict conditions. These include air quality monitoring, health programmes, emissions reduction, and renewable energy integration. The minister stressed that Eskom remains accountable and must act urgently to reduce pollution while ensuring energy security:

Eskom says it will review George’s decision. The ruling affects sulphur dioxide, particulate matter, and nitrous oxide limits at key power stations. Spokesperson Daphne Mokoena says the decision allows Medupi, Majuba, Matimba, Kendal, Lethabo, Tutuka, Matla, and Duvha to continue operating. She says Eskom remains committed to compliance, environmental responsibility, and ongoing engagement with regulators and stakeholders.

# And finally: China’s air pollution cuts have reportedly accelerated global warming. Researchers say reduced aerosols, which previously masked some warming, account for five-percent of the global temperature rise since 1850. China’s industrial boom in the early 2000s is believed to have led to severe pollution, prompting strict air quality regulations. While improving public health, these measures have unintentionally exposed more warming. The findings, published by News Scientist, highlight the complex relationship between pollution control and climate change, raising concerns about the impact of removing aerosols from the atmosphere.

Stay tuned for more news………….