The eThekwini Multi-Point Plan monitoring system is running and running well. While three weather stations are outstanding on the system, all gas and particulate analysers are functioning. April’s data capture was in excess of 95%. Ecoserv has been working hard to ensure that the city gets the information it needs from this complex system.

Monitoring shelters are spread from Prospecton in the south, to the city centre and Warwick Junction in the north, to a background monitoring station in Alverstone in the west. A mobile, research station, is currently situated in Ferndale, near Phoenix, to provide data on this area.

Over 40 pollution parameters are being monitored in real time. In addition, weather across the region is logged. The data is fed back to the eThekwini Health Department and Ecoserv via high-speed data lines. The incoming data is assessed continuously. Each month, the database is rolled up and Ecoserv delivers quality controlled data to Health.

Major industries in Durban are in the process of linking up to the database. They will use this information to assist with process control and to assess their impact continuously.

The system brings eThekwini back to the forefront of air pollution control. A team from East London has already inspected the implementation, as have auditors from Cape Town. Representatives from the country’s leading platinum producer will soon visit Durban to view the system, too.

In the interim, Ecoserv has been identified as the preferred supplier to run the soon-to-be-ugraded Coega Development Zone monitoring system in the Eastern Cape.

For further information on ECOSERV’s involvement please contact Dudu Mjoli or Quentin Hurt on 031 710 1850.