Air quality management status and needs of countries in South Asia and Southeast Asia

Abstract

Countries in South Asia and Southeast Asia are experiencing severe air pollution problems. Most countries lack technical capabilities and adequate air quality management (AQM) infrastructure. A capacity building workshop on AQM was organised from 19-23 September 2022 for countries in South Asia and Southeast Asia. A total of 17 countries (eight in South Asia and nine in Southeast Asia) participated in the workshop. Each country was invited to present on available AQM infrastructure, including challenges and needs. This article synthesises information on available AQM facilities, challenges and needs of the countries. The information reveals that, except for a few low-population countries and Thailand, most countries lack enough ambient air quality monitoring stations (AAQMS) based on the population-weighted criteria. It is also found that only a few countries have started compiling emissions inventories (EI) and performing air quality modelling, including air pollution impact assessments. It is noted that all countries have enacted air pollution mitigation regulations, including the development of clean policies and action plans. However, policies and action plans lack scientific evidence based on local data. The findings of this article, including challenges and gaps, provide immense opportunities for countries to invest in strengthening various components of AQM, including mobilising financial resources from international funding agencies.