Air pollutant emissions and sources in Lao People’s Democratic Republic: a provincial scale analysis for years 2013-2019

Exposure to Outdoor Air Pollution in Lao PDR

Outdoor air pollution in Lao PDR is responsible for approximately 10,000 premature deaths each year. The concentration of fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) in the country exceeds the World Health Organization’s recommended guidelines by four times. Additionally, indoor air quality is a concern due to the extensive use of biomass cooking fuels, causing around 6,000 premature deaths annually. To address these issues and support the country’s climate change commitments, the creation of Lao PDR’s first national and provincial air pollutant emissions inventory is crucial.

Building the Emissions Inventory

The researchers followed international guidelines set out by the Intergovernmental Panel for Climate Change (IPCC) to develop the emissions inventory. They quantified emissions of various air pollutants and gases, including fine particulate matter (PM_2.5), black carbon, nitrogen oxides (NO_x), ammonia (NH₃), carbon dioxide (CO₂), and methane (CH₄).

Emission Sources

The study found that in urban provinces, industry, transport, and electricity generation are the key sectors contributing to emissions. However, in more rural provinces, residential and agricultural emissions are a more significant issue. Forest fires and agricultural burning also contribute significantly to the country’s particulate air pollution.

Future Challenges and Mitigation Strategies

The authors highlighted that Lao PDR’s economic development is projected to continue at a rapid rate, leading to increased energy demands, waste generation, and agricultural production. If these trends persist, emissions will rise accordingly. Therefore, it is crucial to develop the capacity to address this pressing health and climate challenge. The emissions inventory serves as a vital step towards creating mitigation strategies and promoting sustainable economic growth for the country.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being

The issue of premature deaths caused by outdoor and indoor air pollution is directly connected to SDG 3, which aims to ensure good health and well-being for all.

SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy

The use of biomass cooking fuels and its impact on indoor air quality is related to SDG 7, which focuses on ensuring access to affordable and clean energy.

SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

The concentrations of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in urban areas highlight the importance of addressing air quality in cities, aligning with SDG 11’s goal of creating sustainable cities and communities.

SDG 13: Climate Action

The emissions of air pollutants and gases mentioned in the article are directly related to SDG 13, which aims to take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.

SDG 15: Life on Land

The impact of forest fires and agricultural burning on air pollution connects to SDG 15, which focuses on promoting sustainable land use and protecting terrestrial ecosystems.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

Target 3.9

The article highlights the need to reduce the number of deaths and illnesses caused by air pollution, aligning with Target 3.9 of SDG 3.

Target 7.1

The issue of indoor air pollution caused by biomass cooking fuels relates to the target of ensuring universal access to affordable, reliable, and modern energy services (Target 7.1) under SDG 7.

Target 11.6

The concentrations of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in urban areas emphasize the importance of addressing air quality in cities, aligning with Target 11.6 of SDG 11.

Target 13.2

The need to integrate climate change measures into national policies and planning is highlighted in the article, connecting to Target 13.2 of SDG 13.

Target 15.2

The impact of forest fires and agricultural burning on air pollution relates to the target of promoting sustainable forest management and halting deforestation (Target 15.2) under SDG 15.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

Yes, the article mentions several indicators that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets:

• Number of premature deaths caused by outdoor and indoor air pollution as an indicator for Target 3.9 under SDG 3.
• Extent of biomass cooking fuel use and its impact on indoor air quality as an indicator for Target 7.1 under SDG 7.
• Concentrations of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in urban areas as an indicator for Target 11.6 under SDG 11.
• Emissions of air pollutants and gases, including fine particulate matter (PM2.5), black carbon, nitrogen oxides (NOx), ammonia (NH3), carbon dioxide (CO2), and methane (CH4) as indicators for Target 13.2 under SDG 13.
• Impact of forest fires and agricultural burning on air pollution as an indicator for Target 15.2 under SDG 15.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.

Source: sei.org

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