Book Chapters

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5.9 - Modelling estuaries in data-poor environments
(Elsevier, 2024-03) Scharler, UM; Gerber, G; Taljaard, Susan; Mackay, F
Models are inherently data-hungry for the construction, calibration, validation and predictive capacity that is demanded of models. In data-poor environments, a severe challenge to modelling is the lack of historic data, and present lack of sufficient monitoring programmes of important variables and number of estuarine ecosystems. This is largely due to lack of infrastructure, skills, political will, and monetary support. However, environmental challenges do not wait for adequate datasets to arrive to inform decision-making, and therefore different pathways to modelling that inform both research and management are needed. We present approaches to water quality, ecosystem modelling and climate change research in South African estuaries, as a representative of a data-poor environment. Such approaches aim to use available data in novel ways to inform research and decision-making, and identify data and information gaps. We propose that such methods be used in other data-poor areas with similar types of estuaries as South Africa and we provide recommendations how to construct, validate and use models and their outcomes. The communication of model uncertainty for research purposes and to decision-makers takes an important place in such endeavours.
A methodological framework for transdisciplinary urban planning
(Springer, 2025) Du Toit, J; Pieterse, Amy; Mbatha, S
Urban planning research is challenged by combining scientific rigour with societal relevance, especially in terms of urban sustainability at local government level. Transdisciplinarity aims to combine rigour with relevance. But how should urban planning researchers, practitioners and other stakeholders collaborate and conduct transdisciplinary research? This chapter reviews the literature on transdisciplinarity for urban sustainability and, instead of advocating specific methods, presents a holistic and flexible methodological framework. The heuristic framework serves to help stakeholders navigate transdisciplinarity and make more considered decisions when conducting transdisciplinary research for urban planning. Practitioner reflections on the framework are provided using the example of Planning Support Science and a customised Planning Support System for climate resilient planning at the local government level in South Africa.
Advanced developments in fabrication techniques and bandgap engineering in Perovskite Solar Cells (PSC)
(IntechOpen, 2025-02) September, LA; Kheswa, N; Seroka, Ntalane S; Khotseng, L
Perovskite materials have attracted attention because of their favorable features, which include configurable bandgap, improved charge transport, and unique electronic structure. The authors emphasize the most recent developments in PSC synthesis, innovative device architecture, bandgap engineering, charge transport processes, and stability. The need for a comprehensive design principle that surpasses the iterative process of the current synthesis of perovskite materials is highlighted. This is essential for developing high-quality, defect-free crystal structures with controlled dimensionality, and the choice of the deposition process is crucial to improve structural morphology in the production of PSC. This chapter also highlights that tandem and hybrid perovskite research is still in early development and emphasizes the need for basic research to fully understand the optical, electrical, and physical characteristics of the material before advances in industry.
Advancing mouth management practices in the Groot Brak Estuary, South Africa
(Delft Academic Press, 2020-02) Van Niekerk, Lara; Adams, JB; Taljaard, Susan; Huizinga, Piet; Lamberth, S; Slinger, J; Taljaard, Susan; D'Hont, F; Mittal, A
The early 1990s in South Africa were characterised by a strongly hierarchical and technocratic regime where planning and development decisions regarding the environment were made at national government level with little or no public consultation (Slinger et al., 2005). One such a decision was the construction of the 70 m high and 270 m wide Wolwedans Dam (with a capacity of 23 × 106 m3) only 3 km upstream of the Groot Brak Estuary (also known as the Great Brak Estuary) by the South African Department of Water Affairs and Forestry (DWAF) (Figure 6.1). However, then the local community of the Town of Groot Brak feared the effects of reduced water supply on the health of the estuary, as well as the risk of flooding during dam failure. Increasing public pressure, and consequent media coverage, culminated in the DWAF setting up a steering committee, the Groot Brak River Environmental Committee (GEC). This committee was tasked to investigate the effect of the dam on the estuary, and to establish a management plan for the optimal use of the reserved water (1 x 106 m3) to maintain current ecological health. The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) were commissioned to undertake this assessment (CSIR, 1990; Slinger et al., 2005).
Air quality and health
(Health Systems Trust, 2024-02) John, Juanette; Perumal, Sarisha; Mlambo, Mfundo; Naidoo, Mogesh; Ndlovu, Noluthando; Padarath, Ashnie
Exposure to polluted air causes millions of premature deaths each year and can lead to health risks such as reduced lung growth and function, respiratory infections and aggravated asthma. Many deaths related to air pollution occur in Asia and Africa and poor air quality places an additional burden on the health.
An alternative rainwater harvesting system design methodology
(Alive2green, 2020-12) Gibberd, Jeremy T; De Jager, Peta
Climate change and rapid urbanisation have meant there is increasing pressure on water supplies in human settlements in South Africa. This has led to unreliable water supplies and outages. It is therefore important to understand whether there are alternative sources of water which can be used to improve the resilience of supply. One solution is to develop onsite rainwater harvesting systems. These capture rainwater from roofs and other surfaces and store this. Stored water can then be used instead of municipal water supplies for drinking, cleaning, irrigation and flushing toilets. While these systems can be highly effective and significantly reduce mains water consumption, they are not widely used in South Africa. This situation has been compounded by a lack of guidance on the calculation and sizing of rainwater harvesting systems. To address this gap this study presents, and critically evaluates, an alternative rainwater harvesting design methodology based on the Rainwater Use Model (RUM). The RUM methodology is compared to conventional methodologies by applying this to a case study building to carry out rainwater harvesting calculations for a range of scenarios. These results suggest that the RUM methodology may be more accurate than conventional methods. By enabling different aspects of the systems to be tested rapidly, the RUM methodology also provides useful guidance on where investment should be focused in the design of a rainwater harvesting system. The study will be of interest to Architects, Engineers and Planners who need to develop more resilient and sustainable water resources in human settlements in dry areas.
Analysis of land use and land cover change dynamics and its impacts on WEF Nexus Resources over a 30-Year Period (1990–2020) in Mpumalanga, South Africa
(Springer, 2024-10) Ramoelo, A; Tsele, P; Mantlana, Khanyisa B; Mokotedi, Mompe EO
Developing countries face a difficult challenge in ensuring secure and sustainable water, energy, and food (WEF), which is further exacerbated by the rapidly land use and land cover changes (LULCC). This study used Land use and Land cover (LULC) derived from the South African National Land Cover Data repository for 1990 and 2020 datasets in deepening an understanding of the impact of LULCC on WEF nexus resources. Between 1990 and 2020, mines&quarries and built-up areas increased by 30.19% and 40.89%, respectively. The transition matrix based on post-classification comparisons shows that 12.42% of grasslands in 1990 were converted into agriculture in 2020. The observed LULCC dynamics were attributed to socio-economic growth and extreme climate events. This approach had various advantages (e.g., understanding WEF nexus change dynamics in a spatial-explicit manner), and providing a novel methodology that enables collaborative assessment of nexus resources with respect to the environment.
Barriers to closing the loop on nutrient recycling - a case study on phycoremediation of domestic wastewater in South Africa
(Alive2Green, 2021-12) Steyn, Maronel; Oberholster, PJ; De Jager, Peta
Sustainable development and the global move towards a more circular use of resources, where waste is reduced and resources are recycled, have caused a paradigm shift within the scientific community with regards to wastewater solutions. Nutrient recovery from organic waste streams is high on the development agenda and extends beyond direct economic benefits, to health and environmental benefits. Phycoremediation provides an alternative low-cost green solution to nutrient recovery from wastewater streams in developing countries. The current study utilizes a specific consortium of microalgal species (Chlorella vulgaris and Chlorella protothecoides) isolated and cultured specifically for their combined nutrient (total nitrogen and total phosphorous) removal efficiencies from domestic wastewater. The treatment was implemented at Brandwacht WWTW, a micro size waste stabilisation pond system managed by Mossel Bay local municipality in the Western Cape Province of South Africa. Total nitrogen removal efficacy after treatment was 73.1%, while total phosphorous removal was 50%. Even though the microbiological indicator, E. coli, were reduced by over 5 logs and the indicator numbers were far below that of the South African effluent discharge standards, the COD and other physicochemical parameters exceeded the discharge standards. The microalgae biomass was harvested by means of flocculation using Zetag 7557 from a small pilot scale plant, but very low concentrations were harvested.
Bio-inspired metal-metal oxides as Pd support catalysts for CO2 electro-reduction into electrofuels
(Springer, 2024-05) Fuku, X; Mkhohlakali, Andile; Xaba, N; Modibedi, Remegia M; Makgopa, K; Raju, K; Makgopa, K; Modibane, KD; Lichtfouse, E
The chapter provides significant and insightful methodological developments and strategies in the field of applied nanotechnology in particular applications in catalysis, pollution and energy. Owing to detrimental climate change and depletion of fossil fuels, we explore novel nanomaterial i.e., ‘smart’ metal-metal oxides and palladium-based electrocatalysts to achieve the requirements of sustainable and renewable resources. In the last decade, researchers have been engaged in the development of new and fundamental chemistries that will transform the field of nanotechnology and humans. In this view, the concept of green chemistry was coined in the early 1990s and was regarded as the engine in the development of new green nanomaterial. This transition is driving the investigation of green chemistry to mitigate environmental problems, replace traditional methods with novel designs and ultimately replace unsustainable chemistries. With this consideration, the preparation of catalytically active bio-inspired Ni/MgO and Cu/Cu2O/CuO/ZnO and Pd-based Pd-NiO/C, Pd/C and Pd-Cu/Cu2O/CuO/Zn using plant biological entities and waste materials as an eco-friendly, green route are explored. This chapter highlights the mechanism of interaction whilst exploring in-depth the leading edge of green-prepared nanomaterials in storage and energy conversion. This comprises studying the electrochemical phenomena of nanostructured materials, electrocatalysis, activity, stability, vital processes of polarisation resistance and diffusion-controlled systems at the nanostructured electrode surface through catalysis. A short overview and use of nanostructured material in energy spheres such as carbon dioxide electrochemical systems to produce energy fuels are also covered.
Chapter One - Introduction
(Elsevier, 2020-01) Coelho, ST; Bouille, DH; Mani, SK; Stafford, William HL; Coelho, ST; Pereira, SA; Bouille, DH; Mani, SK; Recalde, MY; Savino, AA; Stafford, William HL
The adequate collection and disposal of municipal solid waste (MSW) remain a challenge in developing countries as a direct consequence of inadequate practices, which in turn produce negative environmental and social impacts. In industrialized countries most MSW are collected, reused, recycled, and, before being disposed in landfills, are recovered through waste-to-energy (WtE) systems. However, in developing countries, WtE technologies still face several barriers, in all aspects, and the synergies of WtE and basic sanitation are not yet well seen. In this context, the main objective of this publication is to analyze the current situation of MSW collection and disposal, allowing the discussion of the perspectives of WtE in Latin America, Africa, and Asia.
The circular economy, human settlements and municipal government
(Alive2Green, 2024-01) Cooper, Antony K; Kruger, Tinus; Godfrey, Linda K; Napier, Mark; De Jager, Peta
The linear economy is where resources (including energy and space) move through the economy in one direction, from being harvested, collected or mined, through refining and processing to create products and services, to uses and consumption, until being discarded. This creates value only while available resources are entering at one end and the waste exiting at the other does not foul up anything, or even everything.This chapter considers the current resources within human settlements for circularity, the expected trends, the potential resource constraints for future growth of circularity, key economic and socio-economic gains and losses associated with the linear economy, and opportunities for the circular economy in human settlements.
Complex Coastal Systems: Transdisciplinary Learning on International Case Studies
(Delft Academic Press, 2020-02) Slinger, J; Taljaard, Susan; D'Hont, F
The transdisciplinary research synthesised in this book represents an endeavour by a group of coastal researchers and policy analysts to learn from a cross-comparison of seven international case studies on tidal inlet or estuary mouth management situations, located in South Africa, Sri Lanka, California, Suriname, Ireland and the Netherlands. The conceptual framing is provided by a focus on systems knowledge and its development and use within coastal management.This book is intended for: • Transdisciplinary scholars who are interested in interdisciplinary learning and knowledge exchange, • Policy analysts, environmental historians and coastal policy specialists who are interested in the role of science in the evolution of coastal policy and management, • Coastal scientists and engineers interested in the dynamics of tidal inlets and estuary mouths, • Coastal managers looking to learn about tidal inlet and mouth management practices • Educators focussed on interdisciplinary skills or interested in using the case studies in coastal, management and engineering classes or as the basis for problem structuring exercises by policy students, and • Students interested in coastal systems management and wanting to broaden their interdisciplinary competence. We trust that this endeavour will inspire others to undertake transdisciplinary learning and contribute to wise coastal research and practice.
The contribution of the WRC to estuarine research in support of effective policy development and resource
(Water Research Commission, 2021-01) Van Niekerk, Lara; Adams, J; Taljaard, Susan; Lamberth, S; Day, J; Day, B; Reizenberg, J
The Water Research Commission (WRC) has been a staunch and enduring funder of estuarine research in South Africa, with support ranging from identifying research gaps, to the development of dedicated research programs, student advancement, capacity building and funding the development of policy and management tools. In drafting this overview, we have largely project leaders and steering committee members of a number of WRC projects. We have supported our experiential knowledge through a literature review to ensure that key outcomes were captured. The intent here is not to reflect all contributions through the decades, but rather to identify seminal research outputs that have resulted in clear policy and management interventions, or key research ‘stepping stones’ in the generation of new insights and knowledge on estuaries. In particular, we focus on the research that built multi-disciplinary understanding on estuarine ecosystem function, development of environmental water requirement methods, science that has contributed to integrated estuarine management, developments in estuarine monitoring in support of policy and management, and estuarine resource use and quantification of benefits. Finally, we touch on restoration,an emerging field of research supported by the WRC, and conclude with ideas on the role of the WRC in advancing future research in support of the protection and management of our valuable estuarine resources.
Cradle-to-gate environmental life cycle assessment of limestone calcined clay cement (LC3)
(Alive2Green, 2024-01) Dumani, Nozonke; Mapiravana, Joseph; De Jager, Peta
The manufacturing of cement contributes to approximately 5-7% of global anthropogenic carbon dioxide emissions, necessitating the need for reducing the environmental impact. Limestone Calcined Clay Cement (LC3) has emerged as a promising alternative to ordinary Portland cement (OPC), leveraging widely available resources like clay, limestone and gypsum to partially replace the carbon intensive Portland clinker. One ton of Portland cement is associated with about one (1) ton of CO2 . This study aimed to assess and compare the CO2 emissions of theoretical binary and LC3 cement types against 100% Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC). Considered were: OPC with 30% calcined clay replacement, and LC3, composed of 50% clinker, 30% calcined clay, 15% limestone, and 5% gypsum.
Creating a set of high-resolution vulnerability indicators to support the disaster management response to the COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa
(CRC Press, 2021-06) Le Roux, Alize; Cooper, Antony K; Ludick, Chantel J; Arnold, Kathryn A; Mans, Gerbrand G; Rajabifard, A; Paez, D; Foliente, G
This chapter presents the "COVID-19 Vulnerability Dashboard" for South Africa, developed by the CSIR for the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC). It maps vulnerability to COVID-19 for the whole of South Africa, down to the level of the 103 576 enumerator areas (EAs). The COVID-19 Vulnerability Dashboard aims at helping the NDMC, local authorities and other stakeholders with disaster risk reduction (DRR) and evidence based decision making. Several national government departments have used the Dashboard for planning support. South Africa has large populations around the country vulnerable to COVID-19 because of the triple challenges of poverty, inequality and employment, and the high levels of HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis; high potential for rapid spread because of many dense informal settlements; and limited health resources. The COVID-19 Vulnerability Dashboard draws on our expertise in spatial analysis and disaster risk reduction of human settlements, and our tools, data and expertise including the Green Book, also developed in partnership with the NDMC, to deal with the likely impacts of climate change. Using a multi-criteria analysis approach, we created a set of vulnerability indicators based on domain knowledge, which was peer-reviewed by expert groups. These are disseminated by dynamic spatial mapping through an interactive, online dashboard.
Curbing the environmental implications of emerging nano-pollutants: Current developments in preventing environmental exposure potential and adverse effects
(Springer, 2025) Moloi, Mbuyiselwa S; Mzinyati, T; Lehutso, Raisibe F; Oberholster, PJ; Thwala, M
Commercialization of nano-enabled products (NEPs) being products that contain engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) is rapidly increasing. Most NEPs in markets exhibit high likelihood of ENMs release into the aquatic environment where they may induce undesirable effects; current data suggests rising nanopollution driven by rising commercialization of NEPs. Thus, measures to reduce the environmental exposure and impact of ENMs are required across all lifecycle phases. Herein, two strategies are proposed: safer- and sustainable-by-design (SSbD) strategy and policy development at the international level for ENMs/NEPs’ environmental safety. The SSbD strategy seeks to balance the full exploitation of ENMs in NEPs while reducing their environmental exposure and impact at the design and manufacturing phase. This is achieved by integrating the knowledge of ENMs’ physicochemical properties, exposure, and risk and designing out (reducing) the unfavourable properties. For both strategies, the current knowledge, shortcomings, and recommendations for successful implementation are discussed. Overall, SSbD and policy development can play a significant role in curbing the aquatic environmental risks associated with ENMs/PR-ENMs. However, both strategies are still in infancy and require comprehensive research for further development and implementation at country and international levels.
Defining the South African acute respiratory infectious disease season
(2023-01) Motlogeloa, O; Fitchett, JM; Sweijd, Neville A
The acute respiratory infectious disease season, or colloquially the “flu season”, is defined as the annually recurring period characterized by the prevalence of an outbreak of acute respiratory infectious diseases. It has been widely agreed that this season spans the winter period globally, but the precise timing or intensity of the season onset in South Africa is not well defined. This limits the efficacy of the public health sector to vaccinate for influenza timeously and for health facilities to synchronize efficiently for an increase in cases. This study explores the statistical intensity thresholds in defining this season to determine the start and finish date of the acute respiratory infectious disease season in South Africa. Two sets of data were utilized: public-sector hospitalization data that included laboratory-tested RSV and influenza cases and private-sector medical insurance claims under ICD 10 codes J111, J118, J110, and J00. Using the intensity threshold methodology proposed by the US CDC in 2017, various thresholds were tested for alignment with the nineteen-week flu season as proposed by the South African NICD. This resulted in varying thresholds for each province. The respiratory disease season commences in May and ends in September. These findings were seen in hospitalization cases and medical insurance claim cases, particularly with influenza-positive cases in Baragwanath hospital for the year 2019. These statistically determined intensity thresholds and timing of the acute respiratory infectious disease season allow for improved surveillance and preparedness among the public and private healthcare.
Designing school rainwater harvesting systems in water-scarce developing countries
(Routledge, 2024) Gibberd, Jeremy T; Adler, I; Adeyeye, K; Bello-Dambatta, A; Takacs, B
Many schools in water-scarce developing countries have insufficient and unreliable water supplies. This is being exacerbated by climate change and ageing and poorly maintained water infrastructure. A lack of clean water increases the risks of diarrhoeal disease and concerns about health can result in school closures, affecting education outcomes as valuable teaching and learning time is lost. In these situations, rainwater harvesting systems can provide an alternative, clean water supply that enables schools to continue to operate safely. However, there is limited research and guidance on school rainwater harvesting systems. In addition, there are also misconceptions about rainwater harvesting. These include that rainwater harvesting systems cannot provide sufficient water to meet needs, the water produced is dirty and the systems are unaffordable. This chapter addresses this context by showing how rainwater harvesting can provide sufficient and affordable water supplies to schools in water-scarce areas. It may be of interest to school governing bodies, teachers, design professionals and government officials who want to develop rainwater harvesting systems in schools.
Detection and attribution of climate change impacts in Africa
(Elsevier, 2025) Nangombe, Shingirai S; Mateyisi, Mohau J; Khumalo, KN; Akinsola, AA; Adebiyi, AA; Williams, PD
The rising magnitude, intensity, and frequency of extreme rainfall events, including floods and droughts in various monsoon regions, have impacted the livelihoods of more than two-thirds of the global population (Nicholson et al., 2022; Biasutti, 2019; Hwang et al., 2013). In Africa, the impact of these extremes is compounded by high poverty levels in many countries, exacerbating the vulnerability to climate change extremes and posing significant challenges for adaptation and resilience efforts (IPCC Report, 2022).
Development of advanced Pd-Based electrocatalysts for high performing fuel cell system
(Springer Cham, 2024-05) Fuku, Xolile G; Mkhohlakali, Andile C; Maumau, Thandiwe R; Modibedi, Remegia M; Raju, K, K; Makgopa, K; Modibane, KD; Lichfouse, E
The globe is in increased need of non-fossil energy sources due to existing energy limits and global pollution issues. This chapter will discuss fuel cell energy systems as a cleaner and more environmentally friendly alternative energy source. Fuel cells have gotten a lot of press in the twenty-first century because of their potential as an alternate component of energy production. The present barrier of the fuel cell is the high cost of production materials and the manufacturing process itself. The chapter will focus on core practices that can help fuel cells compete with other energy production technologies by reducing costs and improving operational performance. This will entail providing insights into recent breakthroughs in energy materials, with a focus on new approaches or methods of synthesising materials such as platinum group metal and non-platinum group metal electrocatalysts. The electrochemical kinetic processes and catalytic activity of created catalysts, as well as the power outputs of the manufactured membrane electrode assembly in the desired Fuel cell systems, such as proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) and Anion exchange membrane fuel cells (AEMFC), will be discussed in further detail in this chapter. Between the two systems, AEMFC is more advantageous over PEMFC because of the tolerance of non-platinum group metal catalysts thus becoming a preferred future system over PEMFC. Hence, AEMFC will be used as a preferred fuel cell system for our application.

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