Zimbabwe Targets Mercury Emissions in New Power Plant Initiative

By Everisto Zhuwao

The Environmental Management Agency (EMA) on Thursday launched a major initiative to combat mercury pollution during an inception workshop held at the Holiday Inn Harare. The project specifically targets the mitigation of mercury emissions and releases from coal combustion power plants across Zimbabwe.

The workshop brought together a diverse group of experts and government officials to coordinate a national response to toxic emissions. Mr. A. Matiza, the Deputy Director for Environment in the Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife, officially opened the session. In his remarks, he stressed that collaborative efforts are essential to safeguard both the environment and public health from the dangers of mercury pollution.

Mercury is a significant concern in energy production because it is released into the atmosphere when coal is burned to generate electricity.

The project falls under the Minamata Convention on Mercury, an international treaty designed to protect people and the environment from the harmful effects of mercury.

By focusing on power plants, the government aims to introduce cleaner technologies that reduce these hazardous emissions while maintaining efficient energy production.

Several key organisations participated in the roadmap development, including the Zimbabwe Power Company, Hwange Colliery Company, and the Ministry of Health and Child Care.

Legal and regulatory bodies such as the Zimbabwe Environmental Law Organization and the Procurement Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe were also present to ensure the project aligns with national laws and international standards.

The initiative seeks to reform existing environmental policies and build technical capacity within local communities and regulatory institutions. By fostering partnerships between government and industry, the project aims to ensure that Zimbabwe’s energy future is both sustainable and responsible.

This collective commitment lays the foundation for a cleaner environment and a healthier future for all citizens.