The impact of rolling blackouts on environmental health in South Africa

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Authors

Wright, Caradee Yael
Mathee, Angela
Kapwata, Thandi
Laban, Tracey
Mahlangeni, Nomfundo
Shezi, Busisiwe
Nkambule, Sizwe
Webster, Candice
Naidoo, Natasha
Street, Renee

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

EHP Publishing

Abstract

BACKGROUND : Rolling blackouts (planned power outages) are common in low- and middle-income countries, including South Africa. Recently, South Africa has experienced longer and more frequent rolling blackouts owing to its reliance on an aging electricity grid, among other challenges. During rolling blackouts, parts of the electricity grid are shut down, and the loss of power in homes, businesses, and industries across vast areas leads to a breakdown of key amenities required for environmental health. OBJECTIVES : This commentary contextualizes the existing consequences and potential implications of rolling blackouts for environmental health in South Africa. DISCUSSION : We examined key areas where rolling blackouts affect environmental health, including water and sanitation, air quality, food safety, and socioeconomic challenges. Power outages have led to contamination of freshwater bodies with raw sewage due to resultant interruptions of wastewater treatment works. The use of generators and burning of dirty fuels during blackouts have added to outdoor and household air pollution. Rolling blackouts also expose people to unsafe food. Finally, we discuss some ways forward and the benefits of using renewable energy sources. A critical evaluation of these impacts underscores the urgent need for more sustainable energy solutions that safeguard environmental health in South Africa.

Description

Keywords

Rolling blackouts, Aging electricity grid, South Africa (SA), SDG-07: Affordable and clean energy, Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), SDG-12: Responsible consumption and production, SDG-10: Reduced inequalities, SDG-11: Sustainable cities and communities, Sustainable development goals (SDGs)

Sustainable Development Goals

SDG-07:Affordable and clean energy
SDG-10:Reduces inequalities
SDG-11:Sustainable cities and communities
SDG-12:Responsible consumption and production

Citation

Wright, C.Y., Mathee, A., Kapwata, T. et al. 2024, 'The impact of rolling blackouts on environmental health in South Africa', Journal of Health and Pollution, vol. 12, no. 1-4, pp. 015001-1-0155001-7. https://DOI.org/10.1289/JHP1090