We Need a Breath of Fresh Air: Singapore´s Struggle for Improving Air Quality And What European Cities Can Learn From It

One in five people live in areas which do not meet the air quality standards of the World Health Organization. Air pollution is one of the seven largest causes of avoidable deaths and in many countries - especially in South and Southeast Asia - a leading risk. Is the world losing the battle for clean air?

The increasing demand for energy in China was brought by extensive industrial growth. Besides cars and trucks, coal is the main factor why China’s air is full of pesticides, as it is responsible for 60% of Chinas electricity. The state must take fundamental actions, starting with transforming the infrastructure and achieving a substantial reduction of the use of coal and vehicles. Furthermore, the public needs to be educated on the severe problems air pollution can lead to, due to the fact that air pollution can result in long-term health problems and weaken the immune system. In China air pollution has even been linked to premature death, asthma and a higher chance of tumours and cancer. For the simple reason that the signs are hidden and can hardly be related to air pollution, it is easy to overlook them and the impact air pollution really causes.

As it is taking a heavy toll on public health, economy and environment, individuals tried to raise awareness about environmental issues. In the documentary ‘Under the Dome’, made by Chai Jing about the air quality in China public mindset was successfully made aware of air pollution as a prominent topic. The documentary notched up 300 million views and not just raised public attention, but also the attention of non-profits all around the globe. These Organizations are trying to make an impact. Greenpeace is one of the leading organizations fighting against air pollution in China, as it is not only taking a heavy toll on public health, but also on the economy and environment. The organisation develops solutions by promoting cooperation among countries and states, since air pollution does not stop at borders.

One good example for the success of NGO’s in improving air quality in mega cities is Singapore. Around 50 non-governmental and non-profit organisations are dedicated to the environment in this city, which is increasingly showing effects. For example, The Environment Challenge Organization in Singapore works with young people, aiming to educate 17-35 aged people to adopt sustainable lifestyles and to engage in fighting against key environmental issues. They plan and execute various environmental projects. This is just one example of an organization, which is trying to develop practical solutions to make economics and technology work environment friendly. Furthermore, the data of cars is collected and aggregated to create an even more environmental friendly road layout in the future. What is more, the organisation tries to raise public awareness and incorporate biodiversity into school to raise people’s appreciation of the environment and achieve participation of the adults of tomorrow in the long run.

Citizens would be ill advised to ignore the threat of air pollution. Especially in fast growing developing countries it is important to plan a sustainable infrastructure from scratch. Further, regardless of the level of development, cities have their vulnerable areas. For example, cities located near low lying coasts could be endangered during climate or weather changes. Moreover, it is important to teach individuals from the cradle to take responsibility to the environment and to educate the waste generation. To sum it up, emission reduction, adaption to climate and weather changes, building resilience and teaching children to raise awareness and responsibility are all sectors NGOs are working in with developing countries.