Johannesburg has just kicked off a major climate milestone. On Monday, 21 July 2025, the University of Johannesburg’s Process, Energy & Environment Technology Station (UJ-PEETS), in collaboration with the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT), officially launched the TRUE Initiative, a first-of-its-kind project using remote sensing tech to measure the real emissions coming from the cars, taxis, and trucks on our roads every day.
Powered by Breathe Cities, a global clean air initiative backed by Bloomberg Philanthropies, C40 Cities, and the Clean Air Fund, this project puts Johannesburg on the map alongside 14 other cities aiming to cut pollution and planet-warming emissions by 30% by 2030.
Using advanced roadside remote sensing technology, this is the first time South Africa will collect large-scale, real-time data on actual vehicle emissions. Over 100,000 vehicles will be measured, from minibus taxis to SUVs, to paint a detailed picture of what’s really happening on our streets. Until now, Joburg didn’t have this kind of accurate data to drive targeted, effective policy.
“Partnering with ICCT, COJ, and Breathe Cities on the TRUE Initiative marks a major step for air quality innovation and local capacity building in Johannesburg," says Boitemogelo Kwakwa, UJ PEETS Project Leader.
"UJ PEETS is actively involved in deploying advanced remote sensing tech, gaining direct experience in emissions monitoring and analysis. We’re also driving uptake by sharing insights with local stakeholders and policymakers to ensure data leads to real, actionable change," she adds.
The project also aligns with Joburg’s upcoming Clean Air Zone and fits into the city’s bigger sustainability vision.
"Through initiatives like Breathe Johannesburg and our forthcoming Clean Air Zone, we are taking bold, evidence-based action to reduce vehicle emissions and protect the health of our communities. TRUE will give us the real-world data we need to shape effective policy and deliver cleaner, healthier streets for every resident of our city," explains City of Johannesburg Head Air Quality Management, Musa Mahlatji.
Testing will continue through September 2025, with results expected mid-2026, a major step forward for Joburg’s air, and a reminder that when we know better, we can do better.