Since 1996, a weather forecasting system has been used during the winter months to predict periods of poor air pollution dispersion with a view to reducing the number of national SO2 guideline value exceedances in the Durban South Industrial Basin. These initiatives were implemented by the SO2 Committee. The two oil refineries in the basin, being the largest emitters of SO2 in the Durban South Basin, undertook to minimise emissions of SO2 during these periods by burning gas instead of oil at considerable cost to themselves. Attempts were subsequently made to measure the effectiveness of these initiatives by studying SO2 monitoring data, but no conclusive evidence was found. This may be attributed to factors such as the complex influences of weather conditions on air quality or the absence of external audits to confirm the extent of SO2 emission reductions.

For the 1999 winter period the SO2 Committee requested that a broader base of emission sources be requested to take action during poor dispersion conditions. The two oil refineries again undertook to minimise SO2 emissions during the periods, although to a lesser extent than in the previous years due to loss of flexibility resulting from a general reduction in SO2 emissions. Attempts are also being made to minimise refuse fires and sugar cane burning during these periods. Unfortunately parameters other than SO2 measurements (eg visibility) to measure the effectiveness of this year's winter plan have not been identified or implemented. In addition, information on actions taken has not generally been provided. A proper evaluation of the success of this plan is thus unlikely.