persistent organic pollutantslatest news & developments
Some electrical oils may contain polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) — toxic, man-made chemicals linked to cancer and a range of other health problems, the department of forestry, fisheries and the environment said on Friday.

Environment department warns against using transformer oil on the body over toxic PCB risks

The department has issued a public health warning after reports that transformer oil is being used for medicinal purposes in some communities

  • Sheree Bega
2 min read
Environmental justice organisations and waste pickers say that burning rubbish will cause air pollution and take away livelihoods. (Chris Louw/groundWork)

Garbage plan: Johannesburg’s planned waste incinerator sparks outrage

Environmental justice organisations and waste pickers say that burning rubbish will cause air pollution and take away livelihoods

  • Sheree Bega
9 min read
The Unep study, which the Global Environment Facility funded, was conducted in 42 countries in regions where data on persistent organic pollutants is limited.(Photo by Doaa Adel/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

UN report shows decline in some chemical pollutants as new threats emerge

Persistent organic pollutants stay in the environment over decades and longer and are linked to cancer, liver damage and decreased fertility

  • Sheree Bega
6 min read