Building on the success of the Clean Air Zone initiative, Breathe Cities, the City of Johannesburg, and Seriti Institute have launched the Breathe Better Together Johannesburg awareness and campaign project. Launched in June 2025, aims to strengthen community education and awareness on improving Air Quality by capacitating 35 community-based organizations (CBOs) across Johannesburg.
Through a combination of training, capacity building, and resource support, these CBOs are being equipped to lead localised air quality awareness campaigns that resonate with the lived experiences of their communities. Activities include interactive workshops, school-based education programs, community dialogues, and creative outreach strategies that make air quality issues visible, relatable and actionable.
Ultimately, this initiative envisions a city where clean air is recognised as a shared right and collective responsibility, and where communities are empowered to shape healthier, more equitable urban environments for current and future generations.
Stories of Change
Perception Memela
“One Conversation Sparked Community Action
After participating in a Breathe Better Together awareness session, Perception stopped burning waste and encouraged his neighbours to do the same. He also helped establish a community group to clean local dumping sites and monitor illegal waste disposal.”
Lerato Thekiso
“When Pollution Becomes Personal
Living next to a dumping site and witnessing the impact of pollution on her family’s health motivated Lerato to take action. She began planting trees and became involved in recycling initiatives that benefit vulnerable members of her community.”
