Reducing Air Pollution In Chiang Mai: Strategies For Improvement

Chiang Mai, Thailand, is a city famed for its hundreds of Buddhist temples, some of which date back to the 13th century. The city has experienced a population boom in recent years, with the number of residents increasing from 191,000 in 1989 to 1.3 million in 2024. This rapid growth has been fuelled by a thriving tourism industry, with the city attracting up to 10 million visitors per year. However, Chiang Mai's growing popularity as a tourist destination is under threat from its poor air quality, which has been described as hazardous.

The city has been identified as one of the world's most polluted cities, with airborne particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) being a particular cause for concern. This is largely due to the burning of crops and forests in the surrounding region, as well as vehicle emissions and industrial pollution.

So, what can be done to reduce air pollution in Chiang Mai?

Reduce burning of organic material

The air pollution in Chiang Mai is largely caused by the burning of organic material, which includes the burning of forests and crops. This is often done by farmers as a cheap and efficient way to clear fields for future planting. While this practice is technically illegal, it is still widespread. To reduce the burning of organic material in Chiang Mai, the following measures can be implemented:

Enforcement of Regulations and Policies

The Thai government has implemented policies such as the Clean Air Bill, which aims to introduce widespread measures to tackle polluting sources and better manage emissions from factories, agricultural burning, and vehicles. However, the success of these policies depends on effective enforcement and the cooperation of neighbouring countries like Laos and Myanmar, which also contribute to the air pollution in Chiang Mai.

Alternative Methods for Farmers

Instead of burning crop residue, farmers can be encouraged to use alternative methods such as ploughing and burying the residue or selling it to energy recycling plants. The Chiang Mai provincial administration has banned the burning of farm waste without permission and required farmers to seek approval from the district office. District chiefs have been tasked with finding alternative methods and providing support to farmers, such as providing fuel for their tractors to plough the fields and bury the garbage.

Public Awareness and Education

Individuals in Chiang Mai can play a role by reducing their personal pollution emissions. This includes reducing the use of cars, opting for public transportation, and switching to greener fuel alternatives. It is important for the public to be aware of the worsening air quality and take proactive measures to reduce their contribution to air pollution.

International Cooperation

Neighbouring countries, such as Laos and Myanmar, should be engaged in discussions to reduce their slash-and-burn farming practices, which contribute to the air pollution in Chiang Mai. A regional approach that addresses the root causes of the issue is necessary to effectively reduce the burning of organic material.

Improve farming practices

Farming practices in Chiang Mai and the surrounding areas can be improved to reduce air pollution. One of the primary causes of the dangerous smog in Chiang Mai is agricultural burning, where farmers burn crop residue as a cheap and efficient way to clear fields for future planting. While this practice is technically illegal, it is still widespread and often results in massive wildfires. To address this issue, farmers can adopt alternative methods for clearing fields, such as baling and carting straw from the fields or chopping and ploughing straw into the soil. Additionally, authorities should enforce stricter rules and regulations regarding slash-and-burn farming practices and take more effective action against those responsible.

Another way to improve farming practices is by managing livestock access to streams and water bodies. Farmers can install fences along streams, rivers, and lakes to block access for animals, helping to restore stream banks and prevent excess nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, from entering the water. This will not only improve water quality but also reduce air pollution, as excess nitrogen and phosphorus in farm fields can be lost into the air and contribute to air pollution.

Farmers can also adopt nutrient management techniques to improve air quality. This involves applying nutrients (fertilizer and manure) in the right amounts, at the right time of year, with the right method, and in the right placement. By ensuring that nutrients are used efficiently and that nutrient losses are minimized, farmers can reduce emissions of harmful gases such as ammonia and nitrogen oxides.

In addition, implementing conservation tillage practices can help reduce air pollution. By reducing the frequency and intensity of tilling, farmers can improve soil health, reduce erosion, runoff, and soil compaction, thereby decreasing the chance of nutrients reaching waterways and, ultimately, the air.

Lastly, promoting sustainable agricultural systems and providing support for farmers who adopt environmentally friendly practices can also help improve farming practices in Chiang Mai. Through initiatives such as eco-schemes, governments can encourage farmers to preserve natural resources, reduce emissions, and provide public goods that contribute to a sustainable food system.

Reduce vehicle emissions

Reducing Vehicle Emissions in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai, Thailand, is a fast-growing city with a booming tourism industry. As the city has grown, so too have its emissions, which pose a significant threat to health and the tourism industry.

Non-Motorised Transport System

To reduce emissions and encourage job opportunities for the urban poor, the city implemented the "non-motor transport" system (NMT). This system provides resources for transportation options such as walking, cycling, and human-powered taxis called rickshaws. The NMT has been deemed a success due to its pollution reductions and increased economic growth for residents.

Reducing Vehicle Emissions

To reduce vehicle emissions on a larger scale, there is an urgent need to reduce emissions from factories and vehicles, as well as smoke from agricultural burning. Individuals can also take steps to reduce their personal pollution emissions by spending less time in their cars, opting for public transport, and switching to greener fuel alternatives.

Electric Vehicles

The implementation of electric vehicles (EVs) and the infrastructure to support them could also help to reduce vehicle emissions. This could include electric cars, buses, and scooters.

Greener Fuel Alternatives

In terms of fuel, alternatives such as biodiesel, ethanol, and biogas can be used instead of traditional fossil fuels. These alternatives are typically cleaner-burning and produce fewer emissions.

Energy-Efficient Appliances

In addition to reducing vehicle emissions, individuals can also reduce their energy consumption by using energy-efficient appliances. This includes LED lighting, energy-efficient air conditioners, and high-efficiency cooking stoves.

By implementing these measures, Chiang Mai can take important steps towards reducing vehicle emissions and improving the air quality of the city.

Improve air quality monitoring

Air quality monitoring is an essential tool for understanding and addressing Chiang Mai's air pollution issues. Here are some ways to improve air quality monitoring in the city:

• Increase the number and density of air quality monitoring stations: By deploying more monitoring stations across the city, including in remote areas, authorities can gather more granular data on air pollution levels. This data can help identify pollution hotspots and inform targeted mitigation strategies.
• Utilize advanced technology for monitoring: Investing in advanced air quality sensors and equipment can provide more accurate and real-time data on pollutants such as PM2.5, PM10, NO2, and SO2. Technologies like drones, satellite imagery, and air quality sensors can offer a more comprehensive view of air pollution levels.
• Promote community engagement and citizen science: Encouraging citizens to participate in air quality monitoring can supplement official data. Providing accessible and affordable air quality sensors for homes and communities can help build a more detailed picture of air pollution at a hyper-local level.
• Develop a comprehensive air quality monitoring system: Integrating data from various sources, including government agencies, academic institutions, and citizen science initiatives, can lead to a more robust air quality monitoring network. This system can provide a dynamic and holistic view of air pollution levels across the city.
• Enhance data analysis and interpretation: Advanced data analysis techniques, such as machine learning and artificial intelligence, can be leveraged to identify patterns, trends, and sources of air pollution. This analytical capability can support more effective decision-making and policy formulation.
• Make air quality data publicly accessible: Transparent and timely sharing of air quality data with the public can raise awareness and empower individuals to take appropriate actions. Developing user-friendly platforms and mobile applications that provide real-time air quality information can help keep residents informed and engaged.

Encourage use of protective equipment

The air pollution in Chiang Mai can be reduced by encouraging the use of protective equipment. This can include the use of masks, such as N95 masks, which can help protect individuals from breathing in harmful pollutants. The Thai government has recommended the use of masks, particularly for sensitive groups, and this should be encouraged to ensure that individuals are taking the necessary precautions to protect their health.

In addition to masks, other protective equipment can also be encouraged. For example, individuals can invest in air purifiers for their homes or workplaces, which can help reduce indoor air pollution and improve the air quality in enclosed spaces. This is especially important for those who are unable to limit their time outdoors or avoid exposure to polluted areas.

Another way to encourage the use of protective equipment is to promote the use of air quality monitors and apps. By providing real-time data on air quality, individuals can make more informed decisions about their activities and the need for protective equipment. For example, during periods of high pollution, individuals can be encouraged to wear masks and limit their time outdoors, especially for sensitive groups such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.

Protective equipment can also extend to vehicles, as car emissions contribute significantly to air pollution. Encouraging the use of electric vehicles, carpooling, and public transportation can help reduce vehicle emissions and improve air quality. Proper maintenance of vehicles, such as keeping engines tuned and tires properly inflated, can also help reduce emissions and contribute to better air quality.

Finally, individuals can be encouraged to use energy-efficient appliances and heating systems, as well as conserve energy in their homes and workplaces. By reducing energy consumption, individuals can not only help improve air quality but also curb greenhouse gas emissions and save money on their energy bills. This can include simple actions such as turning off electrical appliances when not in use, using energy-efficient light bulbs, and setting air conditioners to a higher temperature.

Frequently asked questions