The increasing impacts of climate change, fuelled by excessive greenhouse gases, pose significant risks to the health and wellbeing of people, often the most vulnerable and marginalised. Understanding the origins and extent of air pollution, through air pollution analysis, informs the development of responses to greenhouse gases and its impacts on environmental and human health and wellbeing.

Air pollution analysts collect, analyse and interpret air quality data and work to provide responses to address air pollution. They develop and coordinate the implementation of environmental management systems, to enable organisations to identify the impact of emissions on the environmental health of people. Air pollution analysts also sup-port the formulation of reports and evaluation of draft and existing policies for managing air quality and remediation strategies.

Air pollution analysts can work as part of a team and liaise with environmental engineers, scientists and lab technicians. They sometimes visit testing sites, collecting emission data but mostly work in office and laboratory environments.

SKILLS

A solid understanding of national and international air pollution guide-lines, regulations and policy is vital for air pollution analysts. They will further benefit from:

• strong research competence
• ability to work with large data sets
• analytical and logical problem-solving ability
• good verbal and written communication and presentation skills.

TASKS

• conduct research and perform field and laboratory analysis
• conduct risk assessments and audits of existing and proposed projects
• develop and coordinate the implementation of environmental management systems
• assess organisational compliance and provide technical advice.

STUDIES

• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Geography specialising in Atmospheric Science at all universities
• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Chemistry at all universities
• Diploma and Advanced Diploma in Environmental Health at CPUT, CUT, MUT and TUT.

EMPLOYERS

• national, provincial and local government
• NGOs, community-based and development organisations and private consultancies
• research institutions
• mining and manufacturing companies.

South Africa is primarily powered by coal fired electricity which significantly impacts air quality, not only close to power generation plants, but also in geographies close to mining and agriculture. Effective air quality management requires sound policies and regulations, monitoring and legal enforcement. Air pollution control includes the use of engineering techniques to reduce atmospheric emissions that harm human and environmental health.

Air pollution control engineers research atmospheric emissions and develop responses to air pollution. They evaluate the impact of hazards and design regulations and procedures to prevent or reduce harmful emissions. They further provide technical support for civil, environmental and litigation projects and provide input into and develop air quality policies and strategies.

Air pollution control engineers often collaborate with environmental scientists, urban planners, hazardous waste technicians, engineers from other disciplines and even law and business professionals. They often visit sites of interest returning to office environments to develop plans and reports.

SKILLS

Air pollution control engineers must have the skills to analyse and understand pollution levels and have a solid understanding of pollution control techniques. They also need extensive knowledge of air quality policies and regulations, coupled with:

• ability to apply engineering principles related to air pollution
• logical analytical and problem-solving ability
• strong project management skills
• excellent verbal and written communication and presentation skills.

TASKS

• evaluate and model air pollution sources
• monitor emissions and compliance with applicable regulations
• design and implement air quality procedures and processes
• advise on procedures for the mitigation or remediation of air pollution sites.

STUDIES

• B.Sc.Eng. in Civil Engineering at UCT, UKZN and Wits
• B.Eng. in Civil Engineering at SU, UJ and UP
• Diploma, Advanced Diploma, M.Tech in Civil Engineering at CPUT, CUT, DUT, MUT, TUT, UNISA, VUT and WSU.

EMPLOYERS

• national, provincial and local government
• NGOs and private consultancies
• research institutions.

South Africa has a long tradition in astronomy due to its favourable climate and geographical location. It is becoming increasingly advanced in this field with the establishment of observational telescopes, in Carnarvan and Sutherland in the Northern Cape, the latter being the largest in the southern hemisphere. Astronomy investigates celestial objects, space and the physical universe to understand origins and evolution.

Astronomers study matter, space, time, energy, forces and fields and the interrelationship between physical phenomena to further under-stand the laws governing the universe. They apply these laws to solve practical problems and discover new information about the Earth and its connection to outer space. They also investigate how interstellar dust, gas clouds, planets, stars, galaxies and clusters of galaxies came to exist and how they behave.

Astronomers collaborate with other scientists and carry out research using large telescopes and advanced technologies. The majority of their time is spent in observatories and offices where it is common to work irregular overnight hours for night sky observation.

SKILLS

Astronomers need to have an excellent understanding of physics, chemistry and mathematical principles and the ability to work with and interpret astronomy specific software, additionally benefiting from:

• excellent research capability
• strong analytical competence
• creative problem-solving ability and innovation
• good verbal, written communication and presentation skills.

TASKS

• develop and test theories, software and astrological observation techniques
• analyse large quantities of celestial data
• design computer simulations to model physical data
• write scholarly articles based on discoveries and draft funding proposals.

STUDIES

• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Physics specialising in Astronomy or Astro-physics at NWU, RU, UCT, UFH, UFS, UJ, UKZN, UNISA, Univen, Unizulu, UP and Wits
• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Applied Mathematics at all universities
• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Computer Science at NMU, NWU, RU, SPU, SU, UCT, UFH, UKZN, UL, Unizulu, UP, UWC, and Wits

EMPLOYERS

• astronomical research observatories
• research institutions.

Climate change is a global concern resulting in extreme weather pat-terns that impact human wellbeing, livelihoods and environmental integrity. Water and food security, health, built and natural infrastructure and ecosystem services are all at risk from changing climate. Understanding atmospheric changes supports developing strategies for mitigating, adapting and building resilience to the effects of climate change. Atmospheric science involves the study of the earth's atmosphere and its physical processes.

Atmospheric scientists study atmospheric conditions and phenomena to better understand climate patterns and their effects and develop forecasts of where and when these events are expected to occur. They collect and compile data from the field and assist in the development of new data collection instruments. Some can advise stakeholders on risks or opportunities caused by weather events and climate change such as flash floods and droughts.

Atmospheric scientists spend most of their time in an office environment, sometimes travelling to gather field information or liaising with varied professionals addressing climate impacts in areas of energy and agriculture, for example.

SKILLS

Atmospheric scientists must have a comprehensive knowledge of atmospheric and climate patterns, trends and processes. Additional required skills include:

• mathematical and statistical ability to develop forecast models
• exceptional analytical ability
• critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• ability to communicate complex atmospheric concepts.

TASKS

• research seasonal and ocean forecasting and climate predictions
• monitor climate variability and change
• develop and improve numerical and computer models to predict atmospheric processes
• report and advise on significant atmospheric research findings.

STUDIES

• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Meteorology at UP
• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Ocean and Atmosphere Science at UCT
• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Geography specialising in Atmospheric Science at all universities.

EMPLOYERS

• national, provincial and local government
• NGOs and private consultancies
• research institutions.

In 2015, 196 countries committed, through the Paris Agreement, to ensure temperature increases from greenhouse gas emissions are capped at 1.5°C, and the impacts of resulting climate change are minimised. Understanding climate change and its causes is critical to developing mitigation and adaptation measures that builds resilience for people and nature. Climate science investigates significant changes in temperature, precipitation and other measures of climate over several decades.

Climate change scientists research, collect and evaluate climate data and develop models that predict changes to the environment, economy and society. They advise government on policy and legislation that can help to mitigate the impacts of climate change and advise businesses and industry and civil society on mitigation and adaptation measures.

Climate change scientists can work in global teams with other climate specialists and policy makers to address matters of climate change. They mostly work in office environments, analysing data and writing reports and making recommendations from findings.

SKILLS

Climate change scientists require extensive knowledge of factors causing climate change and strong competence in mathematical modelling. They will also benefit from:

• extensive problem-solving ability
• excellent logical reasoning and analytical skills
• ability to work with and manage large datasets
• strong research competence.

TASKS

• research policies, practices or procedures for climate management
• create models to simulate effects of changes to climate
• provide analytical support and advise on climate change policy
• make legislative recommendations related to climate change.

STUDIES

• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Geography specialising in Climate Science at all universities
• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Meteorology at UP
• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Ocean and Atmospheric Science at UCT B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Climate Change and Development at UCT.

EMPLOYERS

• national, provincial and local government
• NGOs, community-based and development organisations and private companies and consultancies
• research institutions.

The social and economic wellbeing of nations and individuals depend on complex and interrelated interactions between people and natural and built environments. Nature provides goods and services that respond directly or indirectly to our needs and wants. Understanding complex interactions between people and their physical environments ensures that human health and wellbeing is ensured, and economies flourish sustainably while securing the ecological integrity of our natural systems. Geography involves the study of these interactions in varied geographical spaces.

Geographers study and analyse the interrelationships and interactions between human activities and the natural and built environment. They study varied environmental phenomena and hu-man spatial relations. They collect and create datasets to map and interpret these relations and advise on the best opportunities for a sustainable environment and thriving society. Some may analyse the regional distribution of resources and economic activities or provide support for geopolitical affairs.

Due to its interdisciplinary nature, geographers engage with a range of professionals in different fields. They can spend a lot of time in an office environment, occasionally travelling for fieldwork to gather data for research.

SKILLS

An in-depth understanding of spatial relations and scale is required by geographers, and the ability to map geographic information using GIS and other spatial software. They will also benefit from:

• critical thinking ability to analyse complex interrelationships
• excellent analytical skills
• good understanding of geographical theories
• strong spatial competence.

TASKS

• study physical landform features, climate and socio-economic factors
• construct, modify and interpret representations of geographic data
• advise government and other stakeholders on the assessment of
• geographic conditions and anomalies
• write reports and publish research findings.

STUDIES

• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Geography at all universities
• B.A., B.A. (Hons), M.A. in Geography at NWU, RU, SU, UMP, UWC and Wits.

EMPLOYERS

• national, provincial and local government
• NGOs, community-based and development organisations and private consultancies
• research institutions
• urban and town planning firms.

Changes in weather and climate patterns are associated with increasing global temperatures caused by excessive greenhouse gas emissions. Extreme weather events, such as extended droughts and flooding, associated with climate change has significant impacts on natural resources and ecosystem functioning. With further adverse implications for social and economic wellbeing. Studying weather patterns and climate change is critical to inform mitigation, adaptation and resilience strategies to minimise associated risks.

Meteorologists study the physics and dynamics of the atmosphere and weather patterns to identify climatic trends and changes. They investigate the direction and speed of air movement, pressure, temperature, humidity and the physical and chemical transformation of pollutants and other phenomena in the atmosphere. They can also develop and test mathematical models for experimental or operational use. Some can directly disseminate meteorological information to the public through radio and television broadcasts.

Meteorologists mostly work in weather stations and office environments analysing meteorological data. They can engage with climate change scientists, policy makers and stakeholders in forestry, agriculture, conservation and environmental management sectors, for example.

SKILLS

Meteorologists must have a solid understanding of atmospheric and physical science principles and processes, and will also benefit from:

• extensive mathematical and statistical modelling ability
• manage and organise large, complicated and complex data sets
• excellent research and analytical thinking ability
• strong verbal and written communication and presentation skills.

TASKS

• measure meteorological factors such as air pressure and temperature
• collect global, national and local satellite and remote sensing data
• create computer models for short and long-range weather forecasts
• liaise with stakeholders around weather forecasts.

STUDIES

• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Meteorology at UP
• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Ocean and Atmosphere Science at UCT
• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Agriculture specialising in Agrometeorology at UFS and UKZN
• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Geography specialising in Atmospheric Science at all universities.

EMPLOYERS

• South African Weather Services
• national, provincial and local government
• research institutions
• television and radio organisations.

GEOGRAPHER

The social and economic wellbeing of nations and individuals depend on complex and interrelated interactions between people and natural and built environments. Nature provides goods and services that respond directly or indirectly to our needs and wants. Understanding complex interactions between people and their physical environments ensures that human health and wellbeing is ensured, and economies flourish sustainably while securing the ecological integrity of our natural systems. Geography involves the study of these interactions in varied geographical spaces.

Geographers study and analyse the interrelationships and interactions between human activities and the natural and built environment. They study varied environmental phenomena and hu-man spatial relations. They collect and create datasets to map and interpret these relations and advise on the best opportunities for a sustainable environment and thriving society. Some may analyse the regional distribution of resources and economic activities or provide support for geopolitical affairs.

Due to its interdisciplinary nature, geographers engage with a range of professionals in different fields. They can spend a lot of time in an office environment, occasionally travelling for fieldwork to gather data for research.

SKILLS

An in-depth understanding of spatial relations and scale is required by geographers, and the ability to map geographic information using GIS and other spatial software. They will also benefit from:

• critical thinking ability to analyse complex interrelationships
• excellent analytical skills
• good understanding of geographical theories
• strong spatial competence.

TASKS

• study physical landform features, climate and socio-economic factors
• construct, modify and interpret representations of geographic data
• advise government and other stakeholders on the assessment of
• geographic conditions and anomalies
• write reports and publish research findings.

STUDIES

• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Geography at all universities
• B.A., B.A. (Hons), M.A. in Geography at NWU, RU, SU, UMP, UWC and Wits.

EMPLOYERS

• national, provincial and local government
• NGOs, community-based and development organisations and private consultancies
• research institutions
• urban and town planning firms.

Globally the intensity of climate change is of increasing concern as greenhouse gases are emitted into the atmosphere through production and industrial activities. These changes in global climate patterns result in the frequent occurrence of extreme weather events like droughts and floods that impact human livelihoods and wellbeing and ecological integrity. The principles of physics can explain the complex and interrelated forces that shape weather patterns and accurately predict the impacts of climate change.

Physicists study matter, space, time, energy, forces and fields and examine the interrelationships between physical phenomena to understand the laws governing the universe. They apply these laws to identify practical opportunities to address challenges and discover new information about the earth and the universe. Some can focus on the design of specialised equipment such as aerospace technology, for example.

Physicists can spend time between research and development laboratories testing experiments and formulating theories in an office environment. They can engage with astronomers, engineers and other professionals around development and experimental theories.

SKILLS

Physicists need to have a comprehensive knowledge of mathematical and physical science principles and laws, coupled with:

• ability to conduct experiments and develop theories
• extensive attention to detail
• strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• excellent research competence.

TASKS

• conduct research on forces and other physical phenomena
• evaluate the results of experiments, methodologies and quality control tests
• provide technical support and advice on calculations and experiments
• report findings through reports, presentations or published articles.

STUDIES

• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Physics at all universities
• Diploma and Advanced Diploma in Physics at TUT.

EMPLOYERS

• national, provincial and local government
• research institutions
• mining and manufacturing companies
• astronomical observatories.