It is time for the ANC to abandon a polluted and prehistoric energy source and place its energy hope in a clean alternative source, like solar power.
The remark made by the ANC Chief Whip in the Mpumalanga Legislature, Vincent Mlombo, during the debate on the SOPA that "coal is the province's treasure" is outrageous in light of the fact that coal mining comes at an unparalleled cost.
In fact, coal mining is the most pollutive way to generate electricity. When coal is excavated and later combusted at power stations, it emits large quantities of pollutive substances that affect people's health and contribute to increased climate change.
In addition to its contribution to greenhouse gases, the combustion of coal emits poisonous and carcinogenic substances into the air, water and soil, which have a seriously detrimental impact on the health of mine workers and people of the surrounding communities.
Mlombo also contradicted the ANC Premier, Refilwe Mtsweni-Tsipane, who frequently promises a greener Mpumalanga. In fact, Mtsweni-Tsipane already launched the "Mpumalanga Green Economic Development Plan", which will bring about a gradual move away from pollutive coal mines.
The question that remains unanswered is why certain ANC officials cling to coal as an energy source while environmental and economic factors clearly oppose it.
The FF Plus will keep fighting for a healthier environment and the promotion of renewable energy sources.
