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Environment

Welcome to the Environment section of the South Africa Facts blog. From the return of humpback whale supergroups along the Cape coast to air quality in South Africa's major cities and the law around harvesting rainwater, this section covers the natural world and environmental issues shaping the country today.

El Niño Is Back: What It Means for South Africa's Weather

El Niño Is Back: What It Means for South Africa's Weather

El Niño has officially returned, and forecasters warn it could become one of the strongest on record. Here's what that means for South Africa's drought risk, rainfall and water supply this summer.

Is It Illegal to Collect Rainwater in South Africa? What the Law Actually Says

Is It Illegal to Collect Rainwater in South Africa? What the Law Actually Says

One camp says it is fully legal, another says the National Water Act technically bans it. Schedule 1 settles it in a single line.

The Humpback Whales Are Back: Record 'Supergroups' Return to South Africa's Cape Coast

The Humpback Whales Are Back: Record 'Supergroups' Return to South Africa's Cape Coast

A record 299-whale supergroup off Cape Town's coast made global headlines in 2026. Here's what's driving it, the new dangers whales face, and where to see them yourself.

How Bad Is South Africa's Air Quality, Really?

How Bad Is South Africa's Air Quality, Really?

On a still winter morning Johannesburg has ranked as the most polluted big city on earth. Here's what's driving it, who pays the price, and what you can do.