On the 5th of June 2026, the “Nhlalala Nature Conservation Project” celebrated World Environment Day by bringing clean-air awareness directly to street vendors at Diepsloot Taxi Rank Extension 1. As part of the Breathe Better Together initiative, the campaign focused on educating informal traders about the health risks associated with cooking using fossil fuels and introducing cleaner, safer alternatives.
Unlike traditional awareness campaigns, the team adopted a stall-to-stall approach, engaging vendors individually at their places of work. This allowed traders to continue serving customers while participating in meaningful conversations about air pollution, health, and sustainable cooking practices. Over 20 street vendors took part in the one-hour campaign, demonstrating strong interest in learning how cleaner energy solutions can improve both their health and working environment.
The campaign highlighted the dangers of prolonged exposure to fossil-fuel smoke, including coughing, lung irritation, eye discomfort, skin irritation, and increased fire hazards. Facilitators introduced vendors to practical clean-energy alternatives such as solar cooking, eco-biomass pellets, and LPG (propane), encouraging participants to consider options that produce less smoke and contribute to better air quality.
What made the campaign particularly impactful was the personal nature of the discussions. Many vendors shared their own experiences of working in smoky conditions and admitted that they had never fully considered the long-term health consequences. The introduction of cleaner cooking technologies sparked curiosity and thoughtful discussions, with traders asking questions about affordability, safety, and suitability for business use.
By the end of the campaign, several vendors had committed to exploring cleaner cooking methods and joined the Clean Air Pledge. The initiative not only increased awareness of air pollution but also empowered participants with practical solutions that can improve their health, productivity, and overall well-being.
The campaign demonstrated that environmental education is most effective when it is accessible, relevant, and tailored to the needs of the community. Through direct engagement and practical guidance, Nhlalala Nature Conservation Project successfully inspired local traders to become part of the movement towards cleaner air and healthier communities.
Key Outcomes
Lesson Learned
- Personalized, one-on-one engagement is highly effective in informal trading environments.
- Many street vendors experience the effects of air pollution daily but are unaware of the long-term health risks.
What Stood Out
- The innovative stall-to-stall approach allowed vendors to participate without interrupting their businesses.
- Over 20 street vendors actively engaged in discussions about air pollution and clean-energy solutions.
- Many traders openly shared personal experiences of smoke-related health issues such as coughing and eye irritation.
