Clean air is the foundation of healthy communities, shaping not only how people breathe but also how they grow and access food. On the 15th of October 2025, Intouch Youth Development hosted an impactful awareness campaign at the SAAYC Centre in Orange Farm, bringing together 53 participants to explore the powerful link between air quality, agriculture, and food security.
Over a 6-hour full-day session, the campaign created an engaging space for learning and collaboration. Through interactive discussions, group activities, and practical exercises, participants identified everyday sources of air pollution such as waste burning and household fuels. These pollutants can damage crops, reduce their quality, and make it harder to grow enough healthy food. This means that air pollution doesn’t just affect the environment, it can also lead to less nutritious food and impact people’s wellbeing. The campaign stood out for its participatory approach, allowing community members to share their experiences and co-create realistic solutions for reducing pollution.
By the end of the day, participants had gained not only knowledge but also a renewed sense of responsibility. The campaign highlighted that improving air quality is essential for protecting food systems and building resilient communities, inspiring attendees to adopt cleaner practices and advocate for lasting environmental change.
Key Outcomes
Lesson Learned
- Linking air quality to food and health increases community engagement
- Interactive, participatory methods are more effective than lectures
- Strong partnerships enhance impact and sustainability
- Continuous education is needed to maintain behavioural change
What Stood Out
- High engagement from all 53 participants throughout the 6-hour session
- A strong connection made between air pollution, agriculture, and daily life
- Participants’ shift in perspective, seeing air pollution as a local, manageable issue
- Clear motivation for follow-up sessions and ongoing community action
