Offsets, one tool in the toolbox

Abstract

Improving ambient air quality has proven to be a difficult task in South Africa and internationally, particularly for secondary pollutants. In order to achieve the goal of full compliance, a variety of regulatory tools are necessary, as well as strong monitoring and modelling of ambient air pollution, together with a strong and effective regulator. Offsetting of emissions of pollutants in order to improve air quality and mitigate the resultant health impacts has the potential to be a valuable regulatory tool; however, it is only one tool. While the overall goal is to improve air quality and mitigate health impacts, the use of each regulatory tool should be governed by its applicability to a specific end goal. This presentation will aim to discuss some of the potential strengths and limitations of offsetting in order to assist in an appropriate scope for offsetting. In addition, the modelling and regulatory capacities that will be needed to effectively implement offsetting will be discussed.