Air Pollution: A disguised threat to Public Health and Economy
Yeasir Arafat Tuhin
Research Associate @ Innovision Consulting | Energy & Environment Economist
Background
?Dhaka is among the most densely inhabited megacities globally. This metropolis is home to around 20 million people. Owing to the significant population burden and the status of being a developing nation, the competent authorities have repeatedly failed to formulate a comprehensive plan for the urban regions, particularly in densely populated places such as Dhaka and Chittagong. Bangladesh is susceptible to disasters thanks to its geographical position and inadequate disaster preparation. In addition to natural catastrophes, there are also disasters caused by human activities. In recent years, air pollution has emerged as a major problem due to its diverse and severe effect on human health, the environment, and biodiversity. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) report from 2015, Dhaka is among the most heavily polluted cities globally in terms of air quality.?
?Introduction
In recent decades, positive growth of industrialization and urbanization patterns have played a role in the substantial growth of population and economic advancement in many cities worldwide. The exponential expansion has resulted in a surge in the need for transportation, infrastructure, and resources, which have not consistently been fulfilled. In several urban areas, economic growth has taken place without adequate implementation of development planning. The situation in Dhaka is comparable to that of other large cities in developing nations. The transport and brick sectors have already been recognized as significant sources of emissions (Begum et al., 2004, 2005), which have been shown to negatively impact the air quality in Dhaka and pose health risks to its residents.?Furthermore, it is obvious from multiple Department of Environment (DoE) monitoring reports (Begum et al., 2010a) that the particulate matter (PM) concentration in the air of Dhaka matches the daily Bangladesh National Ambient Air Quality Standard (BNAAQS) during the monsoon season. In winter, however, there is a significant increase in particulate matter, and the ensuing air quality fails to satisfy the BNAAQS. Consequently, the annual mean consistently fails to meet the prescribed standards.
Current State
?The air pollution in Dhaka has been recognized as one of the most acute environmental problems in the city. Dhaka's air quality has deteriorated to the extent that the city is now classified as one of the most polluted cities globally[1]. The city's air pollution is caused by a range of causes, including vehicle emissions, emissions from brick kilns, and industrial activity. The air quality in the city has been classified as "hazardous" due to a high Air Quality Index (AQI) score of 408, suggesting significant pollution. In 2015, the member nations of the World Health Organization (WHO) passed a resolution to tackle the negative health impacts of air pollution and officially recognized it as a public health crisis (WHO, 2016). In 2019, more than 90% of the global population had an average annual PM2.5 concentration that above the WHO air quality guideline of 10 μg/m3. Consequently, air pollution emerged as the fourth leading cause of premature mortality globally in 2019. According to estimates, air pollution was responsible for 6.67 million fatalities globally in 2019, which accounted for almost 12% of all deaths worldwide (SOGA, 2020a). In 2017, air pollution in Bangladesh caused 123,000 fatalities, which rose to 173,500 in 2019 (SOGA, 2019). The prevalence of the old demographic has risen in recent decades in Bangladesh as a result of enhanced life expectancy, hence adding to the susceptibility to air pollution-related fatalities. Unplanned urbanization and pollutants emitted from large-scale building projects are major factors contributing to air pollution in Dhaka, the biggest metropolis (IQAir, 2020a).
Linking Air Pollution with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
?Air pollution directly correlates with several SDGs, notably:
?1.???? SDG 3 (Good Health and Wellbeing): Reducing air pollution can significantly decrease health risks, improving overall wellbeing.
?2.???? SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities): Addressing air pollution is crucial for creating sustainable urban environments.
?3.???? SDG 13 (Climate Action): Mitigating air pollution contributes to climate action by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Major Sources of Air Pollution
?1.???? Brick Kilns: These is a significant source of air pollution in Dhaka, emitting fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and other pollutants into the environment. The burning process releases PM2.5 and other pollutants such as Ammonia, Nitrates, Sulphur Dioxide, Carbon Monoxide and other hazardous gaseous compounds into the surrounding atmosphere, which are extremely harmful to not only environment but also to the public health.
?2.???? Open Air Wate Incineration: Dhaka has two major waste dumping landfills, Matuail and Aminbazar. To reduce the quantity of waste and to exert less pressure, often some of the solid wastes including polythenes, plastics, PET bottles, papers, scrap electronics wastes etc are incinerated in open air which releases not only toxic gaseous compunds but also Green House gases like Methane, Carbon Dioxide, Carbon Monoxide, Oxides of Nitrogen and Ammonia. Often these gases creates nuisance to the adjacent local community and public health. Besides, people and workers affiliated with the waste handling are also exposed to health hazards due to open air waste dumping and incineration.
?3.???? Surface Dust and Sand: As a river delta, the majority of Bangladesh's land mass is made of sediment and/or sand. This becomes a source of pollution because it's easy to get kicked up into the air, contributing to the high levels of PM2.5 in the city.
?4.???? Vehicle Emissions: The number of vehicles on Dhaka roads has increased significantly, leading to a rise in emissions from vehicles. Diesel busses, trucks, sports utility vehicles (SUVs), and minivans are the worst emitters, contributing about 10% of Dhaka's PM2.5.
?5.???? Construction Activities: Construction sites in Dhaka are another significant source of air pollution, releasing large amounts of dust particles and gases into the air.
?6.???? Industrial Emissions: Industrial activities in Dhaka, including emissions from coal-fired power plants, also contribute to the city's air pollution.
?7.???? Road Dust: Road dust is another major source of particulate matter in Dhaka, particularly from the large metropolis that serves as the capital city of Bangladesh .
?8.???? Textile and Other Industrial Activities: Textile and other industrial activities in Dhaka also release pollutants into the air, contributing to the city's poor air quality .
?9.???? Transboundary Sources: Dhaka's air pollution is also influenced by transboundary sources, with up to one-fifth of the total PM2.5 concentration coming from neighboring country, India.
?Impacts of Air Pollution:
?1. Reduced Air Quality: The city's air quality has been consistently poor, with high levels of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and ozone (O3).
?2. Health Risks: Exposure to poor air quality has been linked to a range of health problems, including respiratory issues, cardiovascular diseases, and lung cancer.
?3. Environmental Damage: Air pollution has been shown to affect plant growth and reproduction, as well as the pollination process [1]. Ground-level ozone can also hinder crop growth and reduce crop yields.
?4. Acid Rain: Bangladesh's industrial sector is expanding and include textile, leather, and chemical companies that emit sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) into the air. These compounds when mixed with water vapor in the atmosphere causes acid rain. Acid rain negatively impacts forests, freshwater ecosystems, and soil quality, hence influencing biodiversity and productivity in agriculture. Acid rain exacerbates respiratory issues and induces skin irritation. Moreover, the use of polluted water sources might result in adverse health consequences.?
?5. Climate Change: Dependence on fossil fuels for power generation contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, which exacerbate climate change.
?6. Economic Impacts: Air pollution has been estimated to cost the region 7.4% of its GDP, and the economic costs of air pollution are likely to be even higher .
?7. Loss of Life Expectancy: The citizens of Dhaka are estimated to lose more than 8 years of life expectancy due to air pollution. Based on the Air Quality Life Index (AQLI) research, the average life expectancy of the residents of Dhaka is expected to be reduced by almost eight years. Cardiovascular disorders have the greatest mortality rate, with chronic respiratory diseases ranking second. The presence of fine particle air pollution (PM2.5) reduces the average life expectancy of a Bangladeshi inhabitant by 6.8 years, compared to what it would be if the World Health Organization (WHO) standard of 5 μg/m3 was achieved[2].
?8. Increased Mortality: Deaths from diseases associated with air pollution have risen by 9% over the last 20 years, with cardiovascular diseases and chronic respiratory diseases being the leading causes of death.
?9. Environmental Vulnerability: The city's environmental vulnerability is exacerbated by its rapid urbanization, with a large proportion of the population living in informal settlements with limited access to basic services .
?10. Toxic Radon Gas: The presence of toxic radon gas in the city's air has been detected, which can cause lung cancer.
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?Relevant Policy and Institutional Framework
?Existing Policies and Laws
Bangladesh Environment Conservation Act (BECA) 1995: This act provides the legal framework for environmental protection, including air quality management.?
Bangladesh Environment Conservation Rules 1997: These rules set out standards for air quality and pollution control. They cover various aspects related to air pollution, including permissible emission levels and monitoring requirements.
Air Pollution Control Rules: These rules were established under the BECA 1995. They create the National Air Quality Control Plan and the Air Pollution Prevention Plan.?Additionally, they identify air pollution activities and set standards for emissions from different sectors (e.g., industry, automobiles, power generation, textiles, cement, fertilizers).
The Bangladesh government has recognized air pollution as a priority issue and has taken some steps to address it. The Department of Environment (DoE) has established frameworks and regulations to meet US EPA and Bangladesh National Air Quality Standards (BNAQS), particularly in Dhaka. The government has banned the use of leaded gasoline, replaced old two-stroke engine three-wheelers with CNG-powered vehicles, and regulated brick kiln emissions, which has led to a reduction in airborne Lead (Pb) concentrations and improved air quality. The Ministry of Environment has identified 20 causes of air pollution in Bangladesh, including brickfields, road construction, and industrial activities. The government has also announced plans to increase the use of environmentally friendly bricks by 100% by 2025.
In the legal framework, Bangladesh's air pollution issue?still needs?the attention it deserves. The Bangladesh Environment Conservation Act, of?1995 recognizes and addresses air pollution by including specific measures to address it. Sections 6 and 6(Ka) of the Act have implemented limitations on the use of motorized vehicles and the production of environmentally harmful goods. Section 9 mandates those liable for exceeding the specified limit of environmental pollutants to take steps to manage or reduce the pollution. The Environmental Clearance Certificate (ECC), as outlined in section 12, plays a vital role in reducing the potential negative effects that may arise from industrial undertakings. In addition to these, the other sections of the 1995 Act also indirectly impact the regulation of air pollution, since all components of the environment are interconnected.? The Air Pollution Control Rules, 2022 have been recently enacted following?the worldwide movement to prioritize environmental preservation. Contrary to the expectations of many environmental organizations, the introduction of the Rules of 2022 replaced the anticipated dedicated and distinct legislation for addressing air pollution. The regulations have been outlined in depth with a specific emphasis on the objective of regulating, preventing, and mitigating air pollution. The Director General (DG) of the Department of Environment (DoE) has been assigned specific duties to implement the Rules of 2022. Rule 4 grants the Director General (DG) the authority to develop a comprehensive plan for managing the quality of air at a national level, to minimize and regulate?air pollution. According to Rule 5, the Director General (DG) has the authority to designate an area as a 'Degraded Air Shed' when the air quality in that region exceeds the set limitations and becomes highly polluted. To?implement the Regulations of 2022, the Director General has the authority to categorize the actions that contribute to air pollution according to Rule 6. In addition, categories have been established depending on the sources of pollution, such as industries, automobiles, building projects, and rubbish.
Rule 15 mandates the formation of a committee consisting of relevant persons from ministries, organizations, and institutions. This group is responsible for providing guidance, advice, and suggestions on the control of air pollution. Failure to adhere to the regulations outlined in the 2022 Rules will result in a penalty of up to 2 lacs and a maximum jail sentence of 2 years. The Rule 16 of the legislation includes a groundbreaking provision that permits the government to provide recognition and rewards to individuals or organizations that make significant contributions towards the regulation and
preservation of air quality. Furthermore, several governmental agencies and organizations, such as the Department of Environment (DoE) and local government, are instructed to collaborate in order to maintain air quality and mitigate air pollution. The Rules of 2022 have a vision of a healthy environment, but only by their effective execution can this vision be guaranteed. If the state is unable to decrease air pollution, it is a clear indication that it is failing to provide the fundamental right to a healthy existence. Therefore, all sectors of the states need to be?prepared and ready to exert their utmost effort to?effectively execute the 1995 Act, the Rules of 2022, and the relevant sections of the Constitution to?get the maximum advantage from them.
?Drawbacks and Challenges: Despite these laws and regulations, Bangladesh faces several challenges in air pollution control:
· Implementation Gap: While policies exist, effective implementation remains a challenge due to limited resources, capacity, and enforcement mechanisms.
· Lack of Coordination: Fragmented responsibilities among different agencies hinder coordinated efforts for air quality management.
· Weak Monitoring and Enforcement: Inadequate monitoring infrastructure and lax enforcement contribute to non-compliance with emission standards.
· Informal Sector: The informal sector (e.g., small-scale industries, brick kilns) often operates outside regulatory frameworks, leading to uncontrolled emissions.
· Vehicle Emissions: Rapid urbanization and increasing vehicle ownership contribute significantly to air pollution. Stricter vehicle emission standards and better public transportation are needed.
·?Indoor Air Pollution: While outdoor air pollution is a concern, indoor air pollution (from cooking fuels, biomass, etc.) also affects public health.
Policy Interactions
Strengthening Implementation:
·?Allocate sufficient resources for monitoring, enforcement, and capacity building.
·?Establish a dedicated authority for air quality management.
·?Promote public-private partnerships for better implementation.
Integrated Approach:
· Coordinate efforts across relevant ministries (e.g., environment, transport, energy) to address air pollution holistically.
· Integrate air quality considerations into urban planning, transportation, and industrial development.
Emission Reduction Strategies:
· Improve vehicle emission standards and promote electric and hybrid vehicles.
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·?Encourage cleaner production technologies in industries.
·?Retrofit existing brick kilns with cleaner technologies.
Public Awareness and Participation:
·?Raise awareness about air pollution’s health impacts.
·?Involve communities in monitoring and reporting air quality.
Global Best Practices for Combating Urban Air Pollution
Air Pollution is a major concern for the whole world. To address air pollution effectively, examining global best practices is crucial. Here are some notable examples:
1. London, UK: UltraLow Emission Zone (ULEZ)
?Policy: Introduction of ULEZ to reduce vehicular emissions.
The Ultra-Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) in London is an innovative measure designed to address air pollution by controlling vehicle emissions. The ULEZ was introduced in April 2019 and originally included the same region as the Congestion Charging Zone in Central London. In October 2021, the area was significantly enlarged to include territories located inside the North and South Circular Roads. In order to avoid incurring a daily fee, cars are need to adhere to the strict Euro 6 emission criteria for diesel engines and Euro 4 standards for petrol engines as stipulated by the ULEZ. Vehicles that do not meet the specified standards must pay a fee of ￡12.50 for cars, motorbikes, and vans, and ￡100 for larger vehicles like trucks and buses. The zone works continuously, without interruption, every day of the week, during the whole year. Enforcement is conducted via the use of automated number plate recognition (ANPR) cameras, which monitor and ensure compliance of vehicles.
The implementation of the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) has resulted in substantial improvements to the environment and public health. According to reports, there has been a significant fall of 44% in nitrogen oxide (NOx) concentrations in Central London, as well as notable reductions in levels of particulate matter (PM). The decrease in emissions has resulted in improved air quality, leading to significant public health advantages, including a reduction in respiratory and cardiovascular illnesses. The implementation of the ULEZ has also prompted changes in driving behavior, as many individuals have chosen to update their cars to ones that meet the required emissions standards in order to avoid incurring the daily fees. Furthermore, the strategy has encouraged increased use of public transit, cycling, and walking, resulting in less traffic congestion and further reductions in emissions.
In addition to reducing emissions, the ULEZ also has wider socio-economic effects. The income derived from fees imposed on vehicles that do not meet compliance standards is allocated towards sustainable transportation projects, including the expansion of public transportation systems and the development of bicycle infrastructure. This reinvestment contributes to the achievement of long-term environmental objectives and improves urban mobility. The success of London's Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) underscores its potential suitability for other big cities grappling with significant air pollution issues, such as Dhaka, Bangladesh. Introducing a comparable Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) in Dhaka has the potential to greatly decrease vehicle-related emissions and enhance the quality of air in the city. Dhaka might reap the advantages of decreased healthcare expenses, greater public health, and improved quality of life by implementing these strategies. To achieve effective implementation, it is crucial to prioritize strong enforcement measures, provide inexpensive public transport options, and enhance public understanding on the advantages of reducing emissions.
Outcome: Significant reduction in NOx and PM levels, improvement in public health.
2. Copenhagen, Denmark: Integrated Public Transport System
Policy: Development of an efficient, integrated public transport system to reduce car dependency.
Copenhagen, Denmark, is renowned for its highly efficient and seamlessly integrated public transportation network, which aims to minimize dependence on personal automobiles and encourage environmentally-friendly urban travel. The system effortlessly combines buses, trains, metros, and bicycles, providing comprehensive coverage and regular service throughout the city and its outskirts. The metro system, renowned for its efficacy and mechanization, runs continuously, guaranteeing uninterrupted accessibility. In addition, bus and rail timetables are carefully synchronized to provide seamless transfers, hence reducing the overall travel time for customers.
?An essential characteristic of Copenhagen's transportation system is its seamless integration with bike facilities. The city has a comprehensive system of exclusive bike lanes, making riding a feasible and well-liked means of transportation for distances ranging from short to medium. Trains and buses allow for the transportation of bicycles, and transit stops provide abundant bike parking facilities, promoting a multi-modal approach to commuting.
The Rejsekort is a unified ticketing system that streamlines fare payments for all types of public transport, enabling passengers to use a single electronic card. This approach, in conjunction with cost-effective pricing and diverse discount programs, encourages the use of public transportation instead of private vehicles.
The results of this comprehensive strategy have been substantial. Copenhagen has seen a decrease in carbon dioxide emissions, resulting in enhanced air quality, which in turn has positively impacted public health. The system's improved mobility and accessibility have resulted in a decrease in traffic congestion and transit expenses for inhabitants.
Introducing comparable comprehensive public transportation networks in places such as Dhaka, Bangladesh, has the potential to provide significant advantages. Dhaka has the potential to alleviate traffic congestion, decrease emissions, and enhance urban mobility and quality of life by making investments in public transport infrastructure, promoting cycling, and implementing uniform ticketing systems.
Outcome: Reduced CO2 emissions, improved air quality, and increased public transport usage.
3. Beijing, China: Strict Industrial Emission Standards
Policy: Imposition of stringent emission standards for industries and the promotion of cleaner technologies.
Beijing, China, has enforced stringent industrial emission regulations as a part of its overall endeavors to address severe air pollution and enhance environmental quality. During the last ten years, Beijing has seen substantial air pollution issues, mostly as a result of fast industrialization and urbanization. In response to this issue, the city has implemented rigorous laws specifically aimed at controlling industrial emissions, with the goal of minimizing the discharge of pollutants from factories and other industrial sources. Beijing has implemented very stringent emission regulations that exceed national limits and include a broad spectrum of pollutants, such as sulfur dioxide (SO?), nitrogen oxides (NOx), particulate matter (PM), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The government has implemented stringent monitoring and enforcement measures to guarantee adherence, mandating companies to install cutting-edge pollution control technology and undergo routine inspections and continuous emissions monitoring systems (CEMS). In addition, the city has enacted measures to transfer companies that produce high levels of pollution away from metropolitan areas, as well as encourage the modernization of existing facilities with cleaner technology. Industries that implement environmentally friendly methods get financial incentives and assistance, whereas highly polluting firms that do not satisfy emission regulations are either shut down or face fines from authorities. As a consequence, a significant number of antiquated and ineffective factories have been shut down. Industries are urged to use sophisticated pollution mitigation technologies such flue gas desulfurization (FGD), selective catalytic reduction (SCR), and electrostatic precipitators (ESP), which effectively decrease the release of SO?, NOx, and PM. The government also promotes the development of innovative technologies that may further diminish industrial emissions, encouraging innovation via partnerships with academic institutions and international organizations. CEMS provide instantaneous emissions data, guaranteeing openness and adherence to regulations. The data is openly available to the public, and manufacturers are required to frequently disclose their emission levels to regulatory authorities. Failure to comply may lead to substantial penalties or the temporary shutdown of operations. The enforcement of these stringent emission regulations has resulted in considerable decreases in crucial pollutants, leading to a notable improvement in air quality and public health, as seen by the decline in respiratory and cardiovascular disorders associated with air pollution. The rigorous criteria have stimulated technical advancements and industrial restructuring, enhancing competitiveness and environmental sustainability in several sectors. Additionally, the enhanced air quality has had a favorable influence on ecosystems and biodiversity inside and around Beijing. Bangladesh may learn important insights from Beijing's strategy by implementing comparable strict regulations, investing in cleaner technology, and ensuring strict adherence to handle its own industrial pollution issues. By implementing continuous emissions monitoring and fostering industrial restructuring, considerable environmental and public health advantages may be achieved. This approach aligns with worldwide best practices for ensuring sustainable industrial development and improving urban air quality.
?Outcome: Significant drop in PM2.5 levels, improved air quality.
?4. Los Angeles, USA: Smog Control Measures
?Policy: Implementation of comprehensive smog control measures, including vehicle emissions testing and regulation.
?Los Angeles, USA, has used a variety of smog mitigation methods to address its well-known air pollution problems. These measures include strict vehicle emissions regulations, advocating for public transit to decrease automobile use, and promoting the adoption of alternative fuels such as natural gas and electric power. The city also regulates industrial emissions and advocates for the creation of green areas to mitigate the impact of pollution. In addition, awareness initiatives aim to educate locals about the health hazards associated with smog and promote pollution-reducing practices such as carpooling. Despite the diligent endeavors, pollution continues to pose a persistent obstacle for Los Angeles, requiring continuous work to enhance air quality and safeguard public health.
?Los Angeles has undertaken a range of laws and activities to reduce smog, in addition to the measures already listed. For example, the city has made significant investments in infrastructure to facilitate the use of electric cars (EVs), such as increasing the network of EV charging stations and providing incentives to encourage the use of EVs. Moreover, the implementation of legislation regarding the idling of cars and the imposition of limits on high-emission vehicles in certain regions contribute to the reduction of pollution levels. The city engages in cooperation with adjacent municipalities and regional agencies to develop all-encompassing strategies for managing air quality. In addition, technological improvements, such as remote sensing and real-time monitoring systems, help to identify sources of pollution and perform specific solutions. Although significant efforts have been made, Los Angeles still has difficulties in meeting clean air regulations, emphasizing the need for ongoing innovation and cooperation across several industries to successfully reduce pollution.
Outcome: Drastic reduction in smog and improvement in air quality over decades.
?5. Seoul, South Korea: Green Belt Policy
?Policy: Establishment of green belts around urban areas to control urban sprawl and improve air quality.
?Seoul, South Korea, implemented the Green Belt Policy in 1971 as an urban containment measure to manage congestion and restrict the expansion of urban areas in the Seoul Metropolitan Area (SMA). Originally, the strategy sought to regulate population growth and the concentration of industries, limit the spread of sprawling urban centers, and establish protected natural areas by setting aside regional open spaces. Nevertheless, the capricious assignment of green belt regions resulted in an illogical arrangement of land use, bolstering concentrations and jeopardizing residential stability. The Green Belt Area Law was enacted in 2000 as a reaction, and the deregulation primarily allowed green belt area to be used for residential reasons. The strategy has had a substantial impact on the housing market in the SMA, resulting in a decrease in average dwelling sales prices due to the release of green belt land. This effect is especially apparent in Seoul, where it has a greater influence compared to Gyeonggi. The strategy has also mitigated the disparity between population and employment, as well as the mismatch between work locations and housing, by enhancing accessibility and options for making location choices, particularly for low-income groups.
The Green Belt around Seoul has somewhat alleviated air pollution inside the city. Greenbelts serve as a barrier between metropolitan areas and pollution sources, thereby reducing the impact of gaseous pollutants. Research has shown that greenbelts may mitigate the effects of hazardous emissions resulting from industrial accidents and contribute to the purification of the air.
Nevertheless, the implementation of the Green Belt strategy has also resulted in the expansion of metropolitan areas and increased travel time for commuters, since growth has bypassed the designated restricted zone. As a result, there has been a rise in both automobile emissions and traffic congestion. The strategy has been ineffective in restricting the expansion of urban development inside the Green Belt, since the majority of growth has occurred outside of it in the broader Seoul Capital Region.
Although the Green Belt has offered some air quality advantages via its plants, the overall effect has been varied. Seoul's fast urbanization and expansion have not been effectively countered by the strategy to reduce air pollution consequences. The deregulation and opening up of Green Belt area for development in recent years has also diminished its ability to purify the air.
The Green Belt has provided assistance in addressing Seoul's air pollution concerns, although it has not completely resolved them. To considerably enhance air quality in the Seoul Metropolitan Area, it is probable that more extensive measures focusing on transportation, industry, and urban planning would be required. The Green Belt by itself is unable to counterbalance the detrimental effects of air pollution caused by the expansion of a megacity.
Outcome: Enhanced urban green spaces, improved air quality, and biodiversity conservation.
Integrating Global Practices with Local Context
While these international practices provide valuable insights, it is essential to adapt them to Bangladesh's specific context. Factors such as economic constraints, social dynamics, and existing infrastructure must be considered. For instance, while ULEZ might be effective, ensuring affordable alternatives for public transport is crucial for successful implementation in Bangladesh.
Recommendations for Bangladesh
The air pollution in the cities of Bangladesh is getting worse continuously. If quick action is not taken via strong political involvement and effective policies, there is a high probability that it will double over the next 10 years. The residents of the nation now consider it essential to attain an environmentally friendly atmosphere with improved air quality. The government should implement effective regulations to combat air pollution, which is a growing problem for health, the economy, and the environment. Unregulated activities such as brick kilns, traffic, open burning of garbage, dust sources such building sites, city corporation fields, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and industries are significant contributors to the emission of pollutants. If the causes of air pollution are effectively addressed and controlled by appropriate policy measures and rigorous law enforcement, there will be a significant improvement in the air quality of our nation. The long-term benefits of enacting legislation to reduce air pollution exceed the costs, considering the additional benefits and advantages that come with it. Some possible solutions and policy measures that can be taken are as follows:
i. Lowering the import tariff will enhance the affordability of hybrid autos. Promoting the use of hybrid automobiles may contribute to the reduction of vehicular emissions, since hybrid cars are known for their superior environmental friendliness. Furthermore, electric cars may be used on the streets due to their many long-term advantages. Nevertheless, the initial investment required for electric cars is substantial, and it is essential to have a sustainable energy source to supply the necessary electricity for their operation.
ii. Regular fitness assessment of automobiles is essential. Implementing the scrapping and phasing out of outdated cars that fail to meet fitness criteria is a crucial measure that the government should take to decrease vehicular emissions. The government might also promote the widespread use of computerised emission testing in automobiles, buses, and trucks to comply with vehicle emission regulations.
iii. The government has the authority to levy a carbon tax. This will aid in reducing the carbon impact. To fully capitalize on the advantages of implementing taxes, it is crucial to establish a organised tax collecting system and enforce a minimum tax return policy. Therefore, it is imperative for the government to carry out a comprehensive analysis to determine the viability and possible benefits of implementing a carbon price. The technology used in brick kilns for brick production is somewhat rudimentary. Efficient brick manufacturing systems that produce less pollutants may be devised to address the significant air pollution caused by brick kilns. For instance, the current models and technology may be substituted by Hoofman Kilns and Vertical Shaft Brick Kiln.
iv. Regulations should be implemented to oversee the appropriate storage, covering, and transportation of building materials at construction sites. Furthermore, the government should establish a legislative framework and implement dust control measures to effectively manage and regulate the emission resulting from construction operations.
?v. Implementing irrigation systems on roadways and surrounding regions of the building site might potentially serve as a viable approach to mitigating air pollution. Watering the trees is crucial for safeguarding biodiversity and the ecology against the detrimental impacts of air pollution.
?vi. In Bangladesh, there is significant variability in both time and space. Hence, policies should be formulated in accordance with the temporal and geographical fluctuations within the nation. The government must establish a strong political dedication among legislators, researchers, scientists, and medics to mitigate the adverse effects of temporal and geographical variance. The government of Bangladesh may engage in discussions with the central government of our neighboring nations about potential measures to mitigate transboundary air pollution.
vii. Additional data collecting locations have been established around the cities of Bangladesh to monitor air pollution. Regular updates are necessary for both emission computation and emission database. Stringent monitoring and enforcement of emission control limits are needed. Continuous monitoring of emissions of critical pollutants should be conducted around the clock. Both sensor-based monitoring and drone monitoring may be used.
viii. We must generate widespread public awareness and educate the populace of our nation of the detrimental impact of filthy air on human well-being. To alleviate the financial burden of citizens' out-of-pocket health expenses, the government might enhance healthcare spending in cities with higher Air Quality Index (AQI).
ix. Finally, it is essential that we transition away from coal and transition towards sustainable and renewable sources of energy. Allocating resources towards renewable energy and green technologies will result in a decrease in air pollution, alleviate climate change concerns, and foster economic expansion.
Conclusion
Bangladesh need to expand its policy scope and discern pragmatic, executable measures to attain cleaner urban areas and ultimately mitigate the detrimental effects of air pollution. Before implementing any technology at the highest level, it is essential to do comprehensive studies on the economic system of Bangladesh. This requires a thorough examination of each sector and conducting in-depth ground-level research. The government should undertake a thorough investigation of air pollution in Bangladesh in order to determine the primary sectors that contribute to pollution. The research should include an analysis of the factors that contribute to air pollution and the consequences it has on different urban areas within the nation. This will enable the government to devise a complete regulatory framework and implement appropriate policy actions. The administration should establish a roadmap of objectives and milestones to accomplish within the next years. Climate change, air pollution, and political health are interconnected. We can thoroughly examine this matter and advocate for comprehensive improvements and policy modifications. Securing unwavering dedication from politicians, researchers, scientists, and medics is crucial for an effective strategy to reducing emissions. Enhancing inter-ministerial coordination is crucial for effective implementation of laws and regulations aimed at mitigating air pollution. Robust enforcement by the Department of Environment and other relevant public and private entities may facilitate the attainment of improved air quality and a more environmentally sustainable urban landscape in Bangladeshi cities. Collaboration between environmental scientists and policy makers is essential in order to integrate economic and environmental policies, resulting in both health and economic advantages.
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