Research builds body of knowledge to protect Waterberg rivers

Abstract

Water and the environment While a growing number of developers are staking a claim in the coal-rich Waterberg, researchers are building a body of knowledge to ensure the sustainable development of this Limpopo region’s unique aquatic ecological infrastructure. Article by Lani van Vuuren. Coal contributes 93% of the total electricity consumed in the country. Growing demand for electricity in South Africa has resulted in a massive electrification programme, with several new power stations being built or on the cards. In turn, this increases the demand for coal. The Waterberg is considered the ‘next frontier’ in terms of coalmining in South Africa, cited by many as the answer to much of the country’s future additional energy requirements. Home to what is believed to be the third-largest coal reserves in South Africa, the area is set to become a new powerhouse for coal-fuelled electricity production in the country – a far cry from the agriculture-dominated area it is today. Development has been triggered by Eskom’s new Medupi Power Station outside Lephalale.

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