Air quality and climate change co-benefits in Durban

Abstract

The relationship between air quality and climate change provides a scientific basis for developing integrative policies. Emission control measures implemented can have varying counteracting influences, simultaneously affecting air quality pollutants and greenhouse gas emissions. The potential to include climate change considerations in air quality policy in South Africa includes the use of local air quality management plans (AQMPs). A case study investigating the opportunities for air pollution and climate change co-benefits in Durban was undertaken. This study focused on two of the areas for intervention prioritised in Durban’s AQMP, namely the industrial and road transportation sectors, which are also considered to be significant contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. Specifically, the industrial sector is considered to have the largest energy demand, whereas passenger transport and the use of carbon intensive fuels dominate the road transportation sector. Emissions inventories were developed for these sectors and used as a basis to explore air pollution interventions that are likely to result in trade-offs or synergies for climate change mitigation. Policy options to promote the implementation of a co-benefits approach to air quality management in Durban are considered.