Mpumalanga is considered one of the most polluted provinces in South Africa due to its high concentration of coal mining, coal-fired power stations, industrial facilities, and heavy transport activity. The province is included in the Highveld Priority Are

Mpumalanga is recognized as one of the most polluted provinces in South Africa, largely due to its extensive coal mining activities, coal-fired power plants, industrial operations, and heavy vehicle traffic. The province falls within the Highveld Priority Area, which the South African government has identified as a significant pollution hotspot because of its alarmingly high air pollution levels. Areas like Emalahleni (Witbank), Middelburg, and Secunda experience especially severe air quality issues, primarily stemming from industrial processes and energy generation.