Eskom-related deaths are reportedly being investigated in South Africa. In order to determine the exact number of deaths caused by coal plant pollution, scientists intend to review millions of death certificates.
Eskom-Related Deaths are Reportedly Being Investigated in South Africa
Scientists in South Africa intend to look through over 8.5 million death certificates to determine the number of people the nation’s reliance on coal for electricity is killing.
The analysis is unique in Africa since it will rely on real data instead of simulating the health impacts of air pollution. This is the most recent effort to ascertain the health effects of the nation’s 14 coal-fired power stations, which generate over 80% of the country’s electricity.
Caradee Wright, the researcher leading the study said, “We are going to provide the most comprehensive review. We are going to analyze mortality.” “We will look at all causes, respiratory-related diseases, and cardio.”
Research Has Estimated that Eskom Pollution Causes Over 2000 Deaths Annually
Prior research has estimated that Eskom pollution causes over 2000 deaths annually, however, the utility’s study places the death toll at 330. Because of its 62 million people and its reliance on coal, South Africa has the most carbon-intensive economy of any country with more than four million people.
Scientists from the South African Medical Research Council, which is affiliated with the state and where Wright is the director of the Climate Change and Health Research Program, are conducting the poll. It’ll examine deaths that occur between 1997 and 2021.
Following a US$9.3 billion climate finance agreement between South Africa and some of the richest countries in the world, it is being sponsored by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office.
Report’s Results Could be Made Public in the Middle of This Year
By comparing locations with comparable climates that are somewhat distant from the power generation facilities with places around power plants, the study will attempt to establish a link between mortality and the release of pollutants like sulphur dioxide and particulate matter.
Because air pollution weakens the immune systems of individuals who are exposed to it, it will also evaluate morbidity in the form of the frequency of tuberculosis and the incidence of pneumonia in children under the age of five.
The report’s results could be made public in the middle of this year. South Africa is delaying the planned shutdown of its coal-fired power facilities because it is unable to keep up with electricity demand. Additionally, because of broken equipment, particulate matter pollution from Eskom is at a 31-year high right now.
Power plant emissions have been linked to several illnesses and health effects, including cancer, stillbirths, heart attacks, emphysema, and asthma.
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