Vulnerability in the South African context

Abstract

South Africa hosts a number of different communities, both in terms of wealth and access to environmental and social services. Poor communities located in close proximity to industrial developments are of particular concern to the risk assessor as they are often exposed to elevated levels of air pollution arising from both the ambient and indoor environments. The risks of adverse health effects associated with air pollution are influenced by a number of environmental, social and economic factors which ultimately affect their level of vulnerability. This paper examines some of the vulnerability factors surrounding South African communities in relation to air pollution. A conceptual framework briefly outlining an innovative methodology to improve management of environmental risk is presented and challenges associated with this process are discussed