Pollution research in the Republic of South Africa

Abstract

Pollution is a complex and wide subject. It is endeavoured to categorize it in manageable subdivisions. Since very little information is available on the expenditure on research by the industry, the paper concentrates on the expenditure by the public sector. Research on water pollution is funded by the WRC, the CSIR and the Departments of Water Affairs and Health. The latter is the main source of funds for air-pollution research. The Department of the Environment funds several projects on the abatement of pollution, especially by solid wastes. Some universities conduct research on pollution abatement. With reference to some projections of future developments, the conclusion is reached that much more funds are needed to combat pollution.