Strategic Spatial Planning for Air Quality: Evaluating Policies in South African Urban Development

Abstract

The integration of spatial planning and air quality management is essential for sustainable urban development and is, expectedly, strongly advocated in the Municipal Systems Act (32 of 2000). Rapid urbanisation and industrialisation in South Africa induced air quality challenges, particularly affecting low-income settlements near heavy industrial zones. This literature review aims to critically analyse the alignment between South African spatial planning and air quality management directives. By examining key directives (policies, frameworks and legislation), this study investigates whether these directives are aligned to mitigate air pollution and promote equitable urban development. The findings highlight gaps and synergies in directive implementation, providing insights into the effectiveness of current directives to intercept rapidly decreasing air quality. Ultimately, this review underscores the need for improved and aligned directives that address urban planning and air quality management to facilitate healthier living environments for all South Africans.