Second-Generation Highveld Priority Area Air Quality Management Plan

On 23 November 2007, the Highveld Priority Area (HPA) was declared in terms of section 18(1)(a) and (b) of the National Environmental Management: Air Quality Act, 2004 (Act No. 39 of 2004) (NEMAQA) (see Figure E-1). The declaration was triggered by air quality in the area that has consistently exceeded National Ambient Air Quality Standards. The HPA is also considered one of the major oxides of nitrogen (NOx) hotspots in the world (Wenig, 2003; Lourens, 2012) and it was previously estimated that over 80% of sulphur dioxide (SO2) and NOx emissions in South Africa are from the Mpumalanga Province (Wells, 1996; NAEIS).

The development of the second-generation AQMP was commissioned by the Department during 2021. The Plan is aimed at establishing emission reduction targets, based on a better understanding of the impact on ambient air quality in the HPA due to various emission reductions (brought about by interventions), that will ensure further improvement and eventual compliance within the priority area.