Exploring the Nexus of Air Pollution and Climate Change in Africa

Atmospheric Tales

In this episode, we discuss:

• Interconnectedness of Air Pollution and Climate Change
• Health and Environmental Impacts
• African Integrated Assessment
• Role of African Scientists
• Future of Atmospheric Sciences in Africa

Guest | Prof. Rebecca Garland

Our guest, Prof. Rebecca Garland, is a seasoned expert in atmospheric sciences, specialising in air quality and climate change, with a strong focus on science-policy linkages. Her research endeavours are dedicated to improving the understanding of air quality and atmospheric science in southern Africa, through the integration of multiple data streams; this includes developing emissions inventories, conducting air quality modelling, utilising ground-based and remote sensing measurements, formulating evidence-based air quality management strategies, and exploring the connections between air quality and climate change at regional and urban scales. Dr Garland has held a significant role as a Principal Researcher at the Climate and Air Quality Modeling Group within the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in South Africa. She obtained her PhD from the University of Colorado, Boulder, concentrating on atmospheric science with a specific focus on aerosol particles. Additionally, she served as a postdoctoral fellow at the Max Planck Institute for Chemistry in Mainz, Germany, and as an AAAS Science and Technology Policy Fellow at the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy.

Interviewer | Cynthia Sitati

Our interviewer, Cynthia Sitati is a Research Associate at the Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI), Africa Centre. She holds an MSc in Climate Change Adaptation from the University of Nairobi and is currently pursuing a PhD at the same institution, where she wants to explore the intricate relationship between air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions by leveraging advanced technologies and synthesising data from diverse sources. At the Stockholm Environment Institute, Cynthia works under the Sustainable Urbanization Programme, supporting projects on air pollution, climate change, and urban development. Her goal is to use research to inform policy, help humanity fight Air Pollution and climate change in her capacity as a researcher, and make a significant contribution towards the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Episode notes and references:

• Integrated Assessment of Air Pollution and Climate Change for Sustainable Development in Africa
• Opinion: Strengthening research in the Global South – atmospheric science opportunities in South America and Africa

Music by: Ritesh Prasanna

Podcast website: https://atmospherictales.com

Transcript: https://atmospherictales.medium.com/exploring-the-nexus-of-air-pollution-and-climate-change-in-africa-af6e390ef5eb