Technical Report: Co-Benefits of Net Zero Pathways

01 May 2025

This report assesses how South Africa’s low-carbon energy pathways—modelled with UCT-ESRG’s SATIM-GE framework—can deliver powerful “co-benefits” beyond cutting greenhouse-gas emissions. By comparing current energy, transport and industrial practices with cleaner scenarios, the study quantifies: Cleaner air: Lower fossil-fuel combustion sharply reduces SO₂, NOₓ and particulate emissions, improving ambient air quality. Public-health gains: Fewer pollutants translate into fewer respiratory and cardiovascular illnesses, hospital admissions and premature deaths. Water savings & quality improvements: Shifts to renewables and efficiency lessen water demand for power generation and reduce effluent discharges, easing pressure on scarce water resources. The results highlight that climate-mitigation investments can pay dual dividends—advancing national emission targets while boosting health outcomes and conserving water. These findings provide an evidence base for policymakers to prioritise decarbonisation measures that maximise social and environmental returns.