South Africa coal phase-out delay could cause 32,000 deaths: report

Delaying the closure of South Africa’s coal-fired power plants could lead to up to 32,000 preventable deaths between 2026 and 2050, climate rights groups warned on Wednesday.

Coal provides 80% of South Africa’s power. Last year, the government approved extended operating dates for 14 coal plants, with two set to run until 2050.

The new report by Greenpeace, CREA and GroundWork says continued delays would cause thousands of premature…