National Environment Management Air Quality Act 39 of 2004

 

Summary

 

The provided text constitutes the National Environmental Management: Air Quality Act 39 of 2004, a legislative framework established by the Republic of South Africa to regulate and improve air quality. Its primary objective is to protect the environment and public health by preventing pollution and ecological degradation while supporting sustainable development. The Act mandates the creation of a national framework for air quality management and outlines the specific responsibilities of national, provincial, and local government spheres. Key provisions include the licensing of industrial activities, the identification of priority pollutants, and the establishment of strict emission standards for various sources. Furthermore, the document details administrative procedures for monitoring compliance, handling international transboundary pollution, and enforcing penalties for environmental violations. Through these measures, the legislation seeks to fulfill the constitutional right of all citizens to an environment that is not harmful to their well-being.