Air pollution levels at the ground (ambient air pollution) generally have a seasonal cycle. In the Highveld, many pollutants have higher concentrations in the winter. This is due in part to the meteorology of the area. There is very little rain in winter, and weather conditions are generally calmer. This can trap pollution close to the ground.
AuthorRebecca Garland
Rebecca Garland is an Associate Professor in the Department of Geography, Geoinformatics, and Meteorology at the University of Pretoria.
Prof Garland's background is in atmospheric chemistry, with a focus on air quality and climate change, and science-policy linkages. Her research focus is on improving the understanding of air quality and atmospheric science in southern Africa using multiple data streams. This includes emissions of pollutants, air quality modelling, using ground-based and remote sensing measurements, evidence-based air quality management planning, and the linkages between air quality and climate change in a regional to urban scale.