Pakistan's Air: Strategies For Pollution Reduction

Pakistan's air pollution is a pressing issue that has severe impacts on public health and the economy. The country's urban air pollution is among the worst in the world, with cities like Lahore and Gujranwala ranking among the most polluted globally. The main sources of air pollution in Pakistan include vehicle emissions, industrial activities, and agricultural practices such as stubble burning. To address this issue, Pakistan has implemented short-term measures, such as the green lockdown, and is exploring long-term solutions like improving public transportation. However, the country's air pollution control measures are insufficient, and it lacks an integrated national strategy to manage air pollution and climate change simultaneously. Sustainable development strategies, stringent air pollution control measures, and collaboration with neighboring countries are essential to improve air quality and protect the health and well-being of Pakistan's citizens.

Reduce emissions from vehicles, factories, and brick kilns

Pakistan's air pollution is a pressing issue, with a significant impact on public health and the economy. To reduce emissions from vehicles, it is important to encourage the use of fuel-efficient and less polluting vehicles. This includes electric, plug-in hybrid, and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. The public should be encouraged to use public transportation, carpool, and utilize ride-sharing services. Additionally, maintaining vehicles and driving efficiently by reducing aggressive acceleration and braking can also help lower emissions.

For factories, there are several strategies to reduce emissions. Firstly, energy efficiency can be improved by using renewable energy sources and implementing combined heat and power systems. Switching to alternative fuels and improving the efficient use and recycling of materials can also reduce emissions. Certain industries, such as oil and gas production, need to address methane emissions, which are a significant contributor to climate change.

Brick kilns are a major source of air pollution, particularly in urban areas. The heavy metals and other pollutants emitted during the brick manufacturing process have detrimental effects on soil quality and the environment. To mitigate these emissions, eco-brick manufacturing technologies should be adopted. Additionally, the implementation of emission control measures, such as stack emission reduction during the brick production period, is crucial.

By focusing on these key areas and implementing a combination of strategies, Pakistan can effectively reduce emissions from vehicles, factories, and brick kilns, contributing to improved air quality and public health in the country.

Improve fuel quality and engine standards

Pakistan's air pollution is largely caused by vehicles, factories, and open-air burning. In particular, the country's numerous poor-quality vehicles running on fossil fuels are a large contributor to pollution.

To improve fuel quality and engine standards, Pakistan could:

• Transition to Euro-5 emission standards, as outlined in the country's updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
• Implement stricter emission control measures, such as those recommended by the GAINS model, to cut PM2.5 levels and reduce the number of mortalities associated with air pollution.
• Move towards the use of alternative fuels, such as electric vehicles, LPG, or Shell's gas-to-liquid fuel derived from natural gas. Pakistan's Electric Vehicle Policy, adopted in 2020, aims for a 30% shift in sales to electric vehicles by 2030.
• Improve engine standards by introducing more stringent regulations for vehicle emissions. This could include regular checks and measurements of engine exhaust emissions, as well as stricter penalties for non-compliance.
• Promote the use of more fuel-efficient vehicles, such as autonomous vehicles, which can improve fuel efficiency by 15-40%.
• Encourage the development and adoption of new technologies, such as hydrogen fuel additives, which can reduce emissions and increase combustion efficiency.
• Invest in public transport infrastructure to reduce the number of vehicles on the road. This could include improving walking and cycling infrastructures, as outlined in Pakistan's National Transport Policy, as well as developing rapid transit systems, such as the bus rapid transit (BRT) system in Karachi.

Regulate industrial emissions and move towards renewable energy sources

Pakistan's air pollution is caused by a combination of industrial emissions, vehicle exhausts, and the burning of crops stubble by farmers. The country's air quality is among the worst in the world, wreaking havoc on public health and the economy. To regulate industrial emissions and transition to renewable energy sources, Pakistan can take the following steps:

Implement stringent air pollution control measures

Pakistan's current air pollution control measures are insufficient to meet the country's air quality standards. Implementing sustainable development strategies and stringent air pollution control measures can cut PM2.5 levels in half by 2050, reducing PM2.5-related mortalities by 24% and greenhouse gas emissions by 53%.

Invest in renewable energy sources

Pakistan has set a target to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030. The Government of Pakistan (GoP) is actively pursuing renewable energy investments on a large scale as part of its clean energy goals. Pakistan has considerable potential for wind energy generation, particularly in the coastal belt of Sindh and Baluchistan. The GoP has developed a wind power energy corridor along these regions, with 36 private wind projects currently operating and producing approximately 1845 MW.

Promote solar power

Solar power entered Pakistan's energy mix in 2013, with the government introducing support policies to foster renewable energy development. There are currently seven operational solar projects supplying electricity to the national grid. With rising electricity costs and an unreliable grid supply, more industries and commercial organizations are turning to captive solar solutions, and there has been a strong surge in domestic installation of rooftop photovoltaic panels in larger cities.

Improve energy transmission and distribution systems

Pakistan's energy sector faces challenges due to outdated transmission and distribution systems. Upgrading these systems will help ensure that renewable energy generated is efficiently distributed and transmitted to where it is needed.

Encourage energy efficiency and conservation

Pakistan can promote energy efficiency and conservation practices to reduce energy consumption and associated emissions. This can include improving energy efficiency in buildings, industries, and transportation, as well as encouraging the use of energy-efficient appliances and equipment.

International cooperation

Finally, as air pollution is a transboundary issue, Pakistan can engage in international cooperation with neighbouring countries like India to address the problem. For example, Pakistan's environment protection authorities estimate that around 30% of Lahore's smog comes from across the border with India, mainly due to the burning of crop stubble by farmers. By working together, both countries can find solutions to reduce this source of air pollution.

Address seasonal crop burning and provide alternatives to farmers

Background

Crop burning is a common practice in Pakistan, especially in the Punjab province, which constitutes over 80% of the country's cropped area. Each winter, an estimated 3.6 to 5 million tons of rice residue is burned to plant wheat, exacerbating the province's winter smog. This practice is detrimental to the environment and public health, contributing to air pollution and global warming. It is also economically inefficient in the long term, as it leads to nutrient loss, depletion of soil organic matter, and reduced soil fertility and water retention capacity.

Policy Responses

A combination of regulatory, economic, and soft policy instruments is needed to address crop burning effectively. Here are some specific measures that can be implemented:

• Regulatory measures: The Punjab Government has introduced a ban on crop burning for one month starting in October each year, with fines of up to PKR 50,000 (USD 300) per acre for violations. However, enforcement and compliance remain weak, and farmers do not find the fines prohibitive. Therefore, regulatory measures should be coupled with feasible alternatives and better access to information about them.
• Economic measures: The government has also introduced subsidised equipment, such as 'happy seeders' and rice straw shredders, which can help incorporate crop residue back into the soil instead of burning it. However, these machines require tractors with a minimum horsepower that many small farmers do not have. The government could consider providing additional subsidies to make these machines more accessible. Another option is to establish residue markets and promote the use of crop residues for bioenergy production, providing farmers with an alternative source of income.
• Soft measures: Awareness campaigns and education initiatives are crucial to help farmers understand the negative impacts of crop burning and the availability of alternative methods. This should be coupled with practical solutions and technical assistance to empower farmers to adopt more environmentally friendly practices.
• Innovative solutions: Exploring innovative solutions, such as zero-tillage techniques, mechanised management of rice crop residue, and the use of microbes for agricultural waste management, can also help reduce the reliance on crop burning.

Addressing seasonal crop burning in Pakistan requires a comprehensive approach that includes strict enforcement of regulations, economic incentives, awareness campaigns, and the promotion of innovative agricultural techniques. By providing feasible and economically viable alternatives to crop burning, the government can improve air quality, mitigate global warming, and enhance the sustainability of the agriculture sector.

Implement air pollution control measures and improve air quality monitoring

Pakistan's air pollution is a pressing issue that requires immediate attention and comprehensive measures to improve air quality. Here are some key strategies to implement air pollution control measures and enhance air quality monitoring:

Implement Strict Air Pollution Control Measures:

• Stringent Regulations and Enforcement: Pakistan should enforce strict regulations to reduce air pollution, with a focus on industrial emissions, vehicle exhausts, and crop burning. This includes setting emission standards, particularly for vehicles and factories, and ensuring compliance through regular inspections and penalties for violators.
• Improve Fuel Quality: Upgrading the quality of fuel used in vehicles and industries can significantly reduce air pollution. This can be achieved by investing in refinery infrastructure and implementing higher standards for fuel production and distribution.
• Promote Renewable Energy: Pakistan should encourage the adoption of renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydropower. This will help reduce the country's reliance on fossil fuels, leading to a decrease in air pollution levels.
• Regulate Brick Kilns and Steel Mills: These industries are major contributors to air pollution in Pakistan. By implementing regulations and providing incentives for the adoption of cleaner technologies, the government can reduce emissions from these sectors.
• Address Open Burning: Open burning of waste, crops, and other materials is a significant source of air pollution. Pakistan should enforce laws prohibiting open burning and promote alternative waste management practices, such as recycling and composting.
• Control Vehicular Emissions: Pakistan can implement measures such as improving public transportation and promoting electric vehicles to reduce pollution from cars, motorbikes, trucks, and buses.

Enhance Air Quality Monitoring:

• Expand Air Quality Monitoring Network: Pakistan should invest in a comprehensive network of air quality monitoring stations across the country. This will provide real-time data on air pollution levels, helping authorities identify hotspots and take targeted action.
• Utilize Advanced Technology: Advanced technologies, such as remote sensing and air quality sensors, can be employed to enhance air quality monitoring. Drones and satellite imagery can also be used to detect pollution sources and track the movement of air pollutants.
• Public Awareness and Education: Increasing public awareness about air quality issues is crucial. The government can develop mobile apps and websites that provide real-time air quality data and health advisories. Educational campaigns can also promote the use of air purifiers and masks, especially among vulnerable groups.
• International Cooperation: Air pollution is a transboundary issue, as evident from the impact of crop burning in neighbouring countries. Pakistan should collaborate with other countries in the region to develop joint strategies and share best practices to combat air pollution.
• Improve Data Analysis and Research: Pakistan should invest in data analysis capabilities to interpret air quality data effectively. This includes utilizing machine learning and artificial intelligence to identify patterns and predict air pollution levels. Additionally, promoting research collaborations between local universities and international organizations can help develop context-specific solutions.

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