Aurélia Lemoine | EANET Acid Deposition Monitoring Network in East Asia

Indonesia Hosts Pivotal Air Quality Events Showcasing Collaborative Solutions and Regional Action

Posted on 2024/09/262025/04/30 by Aurélia Lemoine

From left to right: Mr. Iyad Kheirbek, Director of Air Quality, C40; Mr. Rachmat Kaimuddin, Deputy, CMMI; Ms. Liang Wenyue, Director General, Beijing Municipal Ecology and Environment Bureau; Ms. Dechen Tsering, Regional Director UNEP; Mr. Rui Luo, Director of Global Energy Transition, Bloomberg Philanthropies

26 September 2024 – Jakarta, Indonesia

In the first week of September 2024, Indonesia hosted a series of key air quality events showcasing collaborative solutions and regional action. These included the workshop “Advancing Science-Based Local Actions to Combat Air Pollution in Greater Jakarta” (Sept 2-3) by Viriya ENB and Clean Air Asia, the “Southeast Asia Climate Philanthropy Forum” (Sept 4) organized by hosted by Bloomberg Philanthropies in collaboration with Coordinating Ministry of Maritime and Investment (CMMI), and the “Indonesia International Sustainability Forum (ISF)” (Sept 5-6), led by the CMMI.

Advancing Science-Based Local Actions to Combat Air Pollution in Greater Jakarta

The workshop Advancing Science-Based Local Actions to Combat Air Pollution in Greater Jakarta discussed the city’s worsening air quality and actions to address this issue. Opening remarks by Dr. Suzanty Sitorus (Viriya ENB), Mrs. Velly Asvaliantina (CMMI), and Ms. Catherine Witherspoon (ClimateWorks) emphasized the importance of science in tackling pollution. Information on air pollution sources shared by CMMI revealed that vehicles contribute 42%-57% of pollutants during the dry season and 32%-41% during the rainy season, with coal-fired plants, construction activities, and open waste burning also contributing significantly. Discussions included efforts to reduce pollution, such as shifting to renewable energy, and challenges such as upgrading fuel quality to Euro4 standards were also highlighted. Experts from Thailand (Thailand Pollution Control Department – PCD), China (Beijing Transport Institute, Center for Science and Environment – CSE) and Indonesia (Jakarta Transportation Management Body – Badan Pengelola Transportasi Jabodetabek/BPJT – and Institute for Transportation and Development Policy – ITDP) called for stricter emission standards, better fuel quality, and the promotion of electric vehicles.

On the second day, experts from EANET, Peking University, China, the National Research and Innovation Agency (Badan Riset dan Inovasi/ BRIN), the Institute for Global Environment Strategies (IGES), the Clean Air Fund (CAF), and the Imperial College of London, stressed the need for collaboration between scientists and policymakers for tailored solutions, as pollutant compositions vary between cities. Mr. Bert Fabian, Coordinator of the Secretariat for the EANET, emphasized the need to bridge the gap between scientific research and policy implementation to create effective and locally appropriate air quality strategies. He highlighted the role of EANET in scientific cooperation among countries in East Asia including Indonesia, and its new mandate to work on air pollution.

Advancing Science-Based Local Actions to Combat Air Pollution in Greater Jakarta, Indonesia — Some panelists at the Workshop Advancing Science-Based Local Actions to Combat Air Pollution in Greater Jakarta on 3 September 2024. From left to right: Mr. Bert Fabian, Coordinator, Secretariat for the EANET; Ms. Fu Lu, China Director, Clean Air Asia; Mr. Didin Permadi, Lecturer, National Institute of Technology; Ms. Puji Lestari, Professor, Bandung Institute of Technology; Mr. Mohammed Mead, Head of Air Quality Measurement, Imperial College of London; Ms. Ririn Radiawati Kusuma, Indonesia Director, Clean Air Asia

Southeast Asia Climate Philanthropy Forum

On September 4, the Southeast Asia Climate Philanthropy Forum convened, marking a milestone as the first forum of its kind in the region. The event provided an inclusive platform to accelerate people-centered climate solutions. A key breakout session focused on air pollution and inclusivity, featuring panelists from C40 Cities, UNICEF Indonesia, DILANS (The Movement of Persons with Disabilities and the Elderly in Indonesia), and PT Transportasi Jakarta (the city’s public transport operator).

The session stressed the need to involve vulnerable and marginalized communities in efforts to tackle air pollution and ensure access to clean air. According to PT Transportasi Jakarta, although public transportation covers 98% of Jakarta, only 13 bus-stops currently offer accessibility for disabled individuals.

Indonesia International Sustainability Forum

The Indonesia International Sustainability Forum, held on September 5-6, was inaugurated by Indonesian President Joko Widodo, who reiterated the nation’s commitment to addressing climate change, energy transition, and sustainability goals. Indonesia reaffirmed its pledge to achieve net-zero emissions in the face of the growing climate crisis.

During Plenary 5, “Pioneering Solutions for Urban Air Pollution,” speakers, including Ms. Dechen Tsering, UNEP’s Executive Director for the Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific; Mr. Rui Luo, Director of Global Energy Transition at Bloomberg Philanthropies; Ms. Liang Wenyue, Director General of Beijing’s Municipal Ecology and Environment Bureau; and Mr. Iyad Kheirbek, Director of Air Quality at C40, shared insights into addressing urban air pollution in some of the most polluted cities in Asia Pacific. The session highlighted the importance of regional cooperation to tackle the transboundary nature of air pollution. UNEP, which hosts the EANET Secretariat, also emphasized the role of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP)’s Regional Action Programme on Air Pollution (RAPAP) in fostering greater regional collaboration.

These events underscored the urgent need for collaborative science-based solutions to combat air pollution across Southeast Asia, emphasizing cross-sector collaboration —from science to policy — and ensuring inclusivity in finding sustainable solutions.

Find out more about the EANET and its air quality monitoring stations in Indonesia.

Photo credits: cover photo: the fifth plenary discussion at the Indonesian International Sustainability Forum (ISF) 2024 at Jakarta Convention Center (JCC) Senayan, Jakarta, on 5/9/2024. ©ANTARA FOTO/Novrian Arbi/Spt. All other photos: all rights reserved to EANET.

EANET Working Group 2024: Reviewing Achievements and Planning Activities for Better Air Quality in Northeast and Southeast Asia

Posted on 2024/08/282024/09/20 by Aurélia Lemoine

28 August 2024 – Bangkok, Thailand

The Working Group Meeting on the EANET held its 2024 session virtually on 20-21 August, focusing on reviewing the progress of activities in 2023 and 2024, preparing the next Medium-Term Plan (MTP) for EANET (2026-2030), and considering new projects for 2024. The session brought together over 50 representatives from the Participating Countries to assess achievements, discuss strategic directions, and plan future projects and activities.

Progress Report of Activities Conducted in 2023 and 2024

The Working Group began by reviewing the significant achievements in the last quarter of 2023 and the first half of 2024, highlighting key activities.

The Secretariat and Network Center for the EANET presented Draft Reports on EANET Core Activities and Projects for 2023 and 2024. The Secretariat outlined activities including organizing the 23rd Session of the Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC23), the 25th Intergovernmental Meeting (IG25), and the Informal Meeting on the Initial Preparation of the Draft Medium-Term Plan (2026-2030) (IM2024). Highlights included the EANET Regional Awareness Workshop and National Awareness Workshops in China and Cambodia, as well as updates to the EANET website and communications.

The Network Center reported on its activities, such as preparing National Monitoring Plans, the EANET Data Report, technical manuals, and QA/QC activities. EANET Project Activities for 2024 covered studies on atmospheric deposition, VOCs capacity building, Low-Cost Sensors, PM2.5 source apportionment, and various meetings and webinars on air quality and nitrogen management. The Secretariat also reported on a project assessing emissions inventories and source apportionment in Southeast Asia.

*Some participants at the virtual WG2024 meeting*

Preparation of the Next Medium-Term Plan (MTP) for the EANET (2026-2030)

A major focus of the session was the development of the next MTP, setting the strategic direction for 2026-2030.

The Secretariat presented the Draft Annotated Outline for the Medium-Term Plan (MTP) for EANET (2026-2030) and the Draft Partnership and Resource Mobilization Strategy. An overview of the proposed content for each section of the outline was provided and the steps for drafting the MTP were discussed. The session invited comments and suggestions for improvement.

Key points of the discussion included the need to address emerging challenges in air quality management. Recommendations were made for better data utilization in policymaking, incorporating cost-benefit analyses and considering the key results from the Draft Partnership and Resource Mobilization Strategy. The Secretariat will integrate feedback from the WG2024 and refine the outline which will be submitted for review by the SAC24 in October in Seoul, Republic of Korea, and for consideration at the IG26 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in November 2024.

Proposed Projects for 2024

A total of 11 Project Plans were presented to the Session.

The Network Center and the Secretariat explained the proposed projects including studies on atmospheric deposition effects, VOC capacity building, and feasibility studies for new monitoring technologies. Other projects focused on analyzing precipitation and particulate matter, webinars for emission inventories, and strengthening nitrogen cycle management. supporting emission inventory development in Southeast Asia and improving regional capacity building for air quality monitoring and assessment.

In the discussion, various representatives highlighted key points: the need for enhanced capacity building alongside pollution control, the value of satellite monitoring, support for field studies and VOC projects, and the importance of linking project activities to the upcoming Medium-Term Plan (MTP). There were also suggestions to prioritize capacity-building activities, as well as to include additional meteorological factors in projects related to particulate matter.

Closing Session

The 2024 session of the EANET Working Group highlighted significant progress in 2023, set the stage for the next MTP, and laid out new initiatives for 2024.

Further discussions on the proposed Project Plans, among other important agenda items, will be held during the Twenty-fourth Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC24) meeting on the EANET to be organized from 29 to 31 October 2024, in Seoul, Republic of Korea.

Read the Report of the Session.

Find out more about EANET’s Project Fund and Project Activities.

Shaping Future Leaders: The Fellowship for Building Leadership in Atmospheric Environment and Air Quality Management in East Asia

Posted on 2024/08/212024/08/28 by Aurélia Lemoine

21 August 2024, Bangkok, Thailand

On August 9, 2024, the EANET successfully concluded its Fellowship Program with a closing session held both in-person at Fudan University, in Shanghai, and online. The event marked the culmination of months of dedicated research and collaboration aimed at advancing air quality management and atmospheric science across the East Asian region.

About the Fellowship

The Fellowship for Building Leadership in Atmospheric Environment and Air Quality Management in East Asia is a program organized by the Network Center for the EANET, hosted by the Asia Center for Air Pollution Research (ACAP), in collaboration with Fudan University (FDU), in Shanghai, China, and Clean Air Asia (CAA). It aims to strengthen the research capacity of young government officers and researchers in the Participating Countries, particularly in developing countries. It seeks to promote research and scientific policy-making while developing leadership skills among EANET participants. The program encourages interdisciplinary research and enhances cooperation between academia and government to address complex challenges in the atmospheric environment in the EANET region. Additionally, it provides a platform for the next generation of researchers and government officials to engage in integrated discussions and reflections, preparing them to manage EANET in the future.

Open to participants from the 13 EANET Participating Countries, the program was held for six months in 2024 including two alternate on-site research sessions at Fudan University in Shanghai, China, and the Network Center for the EANET in Niigata, Japan, from July 15 to August 9, 2024. Five participants were selected, engaging in monthly online meetings and intensive on-site training from July 15 to August 9, 2024, with progress reporting and discussions with designated supervisors in both China and Japan.

On-site Sessions in Japan and China

The on-site session started in Japan from July 15 to July 27, 2024, followed by China from July 28 to August 10, 2024.

In Japan, the first day started with the fellows’ introduction to the Research Plan & Progress Report, conducted both in-person at the Asia Center for Air Pollution Research (ACAP) headquarters in Niigata, Japan, and online. The Opening Session was moderated by Dr. Ken Yamashita, Head of the Planning and Training Department, and the Opening Remarks were delivered by Dr. Toshimasa Ohara, Director General of ACAP, Mr. Bert Fabian, Coordinator, Secretariat for the EANET, Prof. Xu Tang, Executive Director of IRDR International Center of Excellence on Risk Interconnectivity and Governance on Weather/Climate Extremes Impact and Public Health at Fudan University (FDU-IRDR ICoE-RIG-WECEIPHE), and Dr. FU Lu, the China Director of Clean Air Asia. The speakers expressed their hopes that the fellows’ research would contribute to creating cleaner air across East Asia and that this program would serve as a strong foundation for international collaborative research. Supervisors from the Network Center for the EANET (NC) and research fellows discussed their research studies intensively at the NC for 2 weeks. During the program, Dr. Hajime Akimoto, Emeritus Research Fellow of the National Institute for Environmental Studies (NIES) and Science Advisor of ACAP, delivered a lecture titled “Past and Present Challenges to Atmospheric Environmental Chemistry,” sharing scientific insights related to the expansion of EANET’s scope. Additionally, discussions were held with supervisors and researchers from ACAP about EANET’s future development & fellows’ contributions.

In China, the on-site session was organized by the IRDR ICoE-RIG-WECEIPHE and MAP-AQ Aisan Office Shanghai, Fudan University. The fellows participated in the International Summer School Program on Climate Change and Related Risks held at Fudan University’s Jiangwan campus and joined discussions, under the supervision of FDU. The program featured lectures by several internationally acclaimed scholars and leaders in their respective fields. Additionally, the fellows visited the greenhouse gas lab and atmospheric chemistry lab of the Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences, FDU, the Shanghai Environmental Monitoring Center, and the relevant facilities related to air quality management. Fudan University also gifted souvenirs and cultural shirts with the logo of this year’s training course to the fellows and organizers.

Highlights of Fellows’ Presentations

The session featured five fellows, each presenting their research projects, which covered a broad spectrum of atmospheric and environmental studies.

Indonesia: The fellow, from the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), presented his study on the impact of anabatic and katabatic winds on the dispersion and concentration of PM2.5 in Bandung Basin, utilizing the WRF-Chem Model.
Malaysia: The fellow, from the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MMD), focused on the long-term trends of acid deposition in Malaysia and the corresponding impacts of forest fires.
Myanmar: The fellow, a Staff Officer at Myanmar’s Department of Meteorology and Hydrology (DMH), provided an overview of air quality in Yangon, highlighting significant challenges and potential solutions.
The Philippines: The fellow, from the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB), Department of Environment and Natural Resources, discussed her research on determining potential EANET monitoring sites based on sulfur dioxide emissions in the northern region – Northeastern Pangasinan.
Russia: The fellow, from the Yu.A. Izrael Institute of Global Climate and Ecology (IGCE), shared her findings on acidifying compounds runoff discharge and its variations at the Pereemnaya River, Baikal Lake Region.

Following the presentations, participants provided feedback and comments that underscored the importance of such collaborative research efforts. Supervisors from FDU and ACAP, along with other participants, offered their insights, fostering a rich exchange of knowledge and ideas.

The fellows with their completion certificates

Closing Remarks and Future Prospects

The event, moderated by Prof. Xu Tang, concluded with remarks from Prof. Meng Fan, the Deputy Director General, Asia Center for Air Pollution Research, from Mr. Bert Fabian, Coordinator, the Secretariat for the EANET, from Prof. Renhe Zhang, Former Vice President of Fudan University, and Dr. Wei Wan, China Program Director, Clean Air Asia. In their remarks, the speakers commended the fellows for their exceptional work and encouraged continued collaboration. The session highlighted the significant strides made through the program in building leadership in air quality management in East Asia, setting a strong foundation for future initiatives.

The Closing Session concluded with Professor Renhe Zhang, Former Vice President of Fudan University, Dean, the Institute of Atmospheric Science (IAS), FDU Director, FDU/IRDR International Center of Excellence, and WMO/IGAC MAP-AQ Asian Office in Fudan University, presenting the completion certificates to the fellows on behalf of the program organizers.

The Fellowship for Building Leadership in Atmospheric Environment and Air Quality Management in East Asia program has been approved at the Twenty-fifth Session of the Intergovernmental Meeting (IG25) on the EANET, as a Project Activity, co-funded by the EANET Project Fund, Fudan University, and Clean Air Asia.

View the photos on Flickr.

EANET Highlighted in WHO Science-Policy Brief on Transboundary Air Pollution

Posted on 2025/08/282025/08/28 by Aurélia Lemoine

28 August 2025 – Bangkok, Thailand

The World Health Organization (WHO) has launched a series of Air Quality, Energy and Health Science and Policy Summaries (SPS) to support decision-makers by presenting key insights from scientific research. As part of this series, Transboundary Cooperation for Our Shared Air – Protecting Public Health has been published, underscoring the urgent need for regional and global collaboration to combat air pollution and mapping key organizations linked to air quality. The technical brief recognizes the critical role of networks such as EANET in advancing scientific cooperation and improving air quality management.

Air Pollution: A Shared Challenge

Air pollution remains one of the greatest environmental health risks, linked to 6.4 million deaths globally each year. Its impacts are not confined to national borders, as pollutants travel across regions, harming ecosystems, economies, and public health far from their source. The WHO brief stresses that regional cooperation is essential to address this challenge, citing examples of long-standing agreements and networks worldwide.

The WHO technical brief notes that transboundary cooperation is vital to achieving co-benefits for climate and health. By providing reliable data, fostering dialogue among governments, and facilitating technical and financial cooperation, networks such as EANET contribute to the momentum created by recent global commitments, including the 2024 United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA) resolution 6/10 on Promoting regional cooperation on air pollution globally.

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Way forward

While significant progress has been made in certain regions, the technical brief emphasizes that more can be done to broaden the scope of existing collaborations, mobilize resources, and build capacities worldwide. WHO calls for stronger multisectoral action, particularly engaging the health workforce in air pollution control.

Read the Transboundary cooperation for our shared air: protecting public health

Photo credits: boy in orange (2020) by Li Lin.

Africa and Asia United for Clean Air at the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development

Posted on 2025/08/212025/08/28 by Aurélia Lemoine

28 August 2025 – Yokohama, Japan

Thematic discussions on Advancing the “Africa Clean Air Programme” through Africa-Asia Collaboration took place at the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD-9) in Yokohama, Japan, on 21 August 2025. Co-organized by the Ministry of the Environment, Japan (MOEJ), the Climate & Clean Air Coalition (CCAC), the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and the Asia Pacific Clean Air Partnership (APCAP), the event brought together more than 80 participants, including participants from Burkina Faso, Japan, Kenya, Madagascar, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, Thailand, Tunisia, and Uganda, to foster Africa-Asia collaboration on air quality solutions.

The Africa Clean Air Programme and Country Spotlights

Opening remarks were delivered by Mr. Kentaro Doi, Vice Minister of MOEJ, and Dr. Peter Justice Dery of Ghana’s Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, who highlighted Asia’s leadership in tackling air pollution and potential for cross-regional learning. A first panel focused on the “Africa Clean Air Programme”, with country spotlights from Senegal and South Africa. Ms. Fatou Ndiaye, from the Ministry of the Environment and Sustainable Development, Senegal, shared Senegal’s work on cross-sector coordination for air quality, while Ms. Ricca Marowe, from the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment, South Africa, outlined South Africa’s progress in strengthening national air quality management services.

*From left to right: Ms. Ricca Marowe, Mr. Jimmy Rakotovao, and Ms. Fatou Ndiaye.*

Learning from Asia’s Experience

The second panel, “Asia to Africa,” emphasized how Asia’s experience in air quality management could support Africa’s emerging frameworks. Contributions included insights from Clean Air Asia on cooperative action, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) on capacity development, and Thailand’s Pollution Control Department on lessons learned from Thailand’s journey toward cleaner air, including recommendations on the role of low-cost air quality monitoring sensors to supplement regulatory stations.

Mr. Kohei Muto of the Japanese consulting firm Double Feather Partners Inc. highlighted innovative financing mechanisms for clean air and sustainable mobility, bridging environmental and economic goals.

From left to right: H.E. Mr. Ahmed Araita Ali; H.E. Mr. Ahmed Araita Ali, Ms. Kaye Patdu, Dr. Mushtaq Memon, and Dr. Eric Zusman; participants; Mr. Tomoyuki Izumi, Ms. Dang Espita Casanova, Dr. Hiroaki Takiguchi, Ms. Siwaporn Rungsiyanon, Mr. Kohei Muto, and Dr. Akie Yuba.

EANET’s Expertise in Air Quality Monitoring and Regional Cooperation

Dr. Akie Yuba of the Asia Center for Air Pollution Research, the Network Center for the EANET, presented EANET and its Hybrid Air Quality Monitoring Network (HAQMN), which aims to combine traditional reference sensors and low-cost sensors (LCS) to enhance real-time, accessible air quality data across the region. The session also underscored EANET’s 25 years of experience in regional monitoring, data sharing, and capacity building across East Asia.

Participants noted that EANET’s proven cooperative and standardized framework could serve as a valuable reference for the African Region as it considers developing regional mechanisms for air quality management. The discussion reinforced the importance of international collaboration in establishing robust monitoring networks and promoting technology transfer.

Regional Cooperation and Path Forward

The third panel addressed broader regional and global cooperation. Speakers explored financing mechanisms, leapfrogging opportunities for pollution-free development, and synergistic solutions linking air pollution and climate change. The dialogue emphasized South-South and Triangular Cooperation, with Asia’s experience offering support for African countries’ path forward and vice versa.

The event ended with a networking reception, which convened over 60 participants, with delegations from Cabo Verde, Egypt, Madagascar, Mozambique, South Africa, and Uganda, engaging with Japanese stakeholders and partners.

Access EANET’s Air quality data

Strengthening Regional Collaboration on Clean Air: EANET at NEACAP Policy Dialogue and National Workshop in Mongolia

Posted on 2025/09/302025/11/04 by Aurélia Lemoine

30 September 2025, Bangkok, Thailand

EANET joined the Second Northeast Asia Clean Air Partnership (NEACAP) Science Policy Dialogue and the NEACAP National Workshop on Air Quality Management held on 23–24 September 2025 in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. The EANET Secretariat was invited to moderate and speak during the events, marking an important step in strengthening collaboration between EANET and NEACAP. The National Workshop also served as the EANET National Awareness Workshop for Mongolia.

Policy Dialogue Highlights

Organized back-to-back with the 28th Senior Officials Meeting (SOM-28) of the North-East Asian Subregional Programme for Environmental Cooperation (NEASPEC), the Policy Dialogue gathered policymakers, technical experts, and regional organizations to discuss clean air cooperation. During the meeting, the 2025 report “NEACAP Policy Analysis Report: Successes and Challenges in Addressing Air Pollution in North-East Asia” was launched. The report highlighted persisting challenges such as rising ground-level ozone, urban and agricultural emissions, and the growing influence of climate change on air quality.

The Dialogue also emphasized the need for integrated approaches linking air quality and climate change, which is a key focus area of the newly adopted NEACAP Work Plan 2026–2030. National experiences from China, Japan, Mongolia, the Republic of Korea, and Russia showcased opportunities for policy alignment and shared learning.

Mongolia’s Progress and Future Directions

The National Workshop on 24 September spotlighted Mongolia’s ongoing air quality management initiatives. Dr. Tsatsral Batmunkh, EANET National Focal Point and Director of the Central Laboratory of Environment and Metrology, NAMEM, underscored Mongolia’s long-standing engagement with EANET and the benefits of the Network’s QA/QC guidelines in improving monitoring data quality.

Mongolia currently operates 19 monitoring stations in Ulaanbaatar and 2 in Erdenet, with new stations to be installed in 21 provinces with support from the Republic of Korea in 2025. Policy updates included a new National Committee for Air Pollution Reduction (2024) and a target to phase out solid fuels by 2040. The government also plans amendments to the Air Law and Air Pollution Charges Law, alongside new investment mechanisms and long-term pollution reduction plans.

*NEACAP National Workshop on Air Quality Management and EANET National Awareness Workshop for Mongolia participants and speakers (all rights reserved to NEACAP)*

Enhancing Cooperation on Air Quality in Northeast Asia and Beyond

EANET reaffirmed its readiness to support Mongolia and regional partners through the EANET Project Fund. Ongoing collaboration with NEACAP to advance clean air across Northeast Asia and beyond is also in line with efforts to increase regional cooperation as part of the development of the EANET’s next Medium-Term Plan (2026-2030) to be considered for approval at the 27th Intergovernmental Meeting (IG27) on the EANET in November 2025 in Bangkok, Thailand.

Find out more about the EANET Project Fund.

The Twenty-fifth Session of the Scientific Advisory Committee on the EANET

Posted on 2025/10/292025/10/29 by Aurélia Lemoine

27 October 2025 – Vientiane, Lao PDR

The Twenty-fifth Session of the Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC25) on the EANET was held from 20 to 22 October 2025, in Vientiane, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, and online. The Session gathered over 50 representatives from the EANET Participating Countries, along with the Secretariat and the Network Center for the EANET, and observers from institutions interested in partnering with the EANET. The SAC25 served as a milestone meeting to review progress, assess EANET’s monitoring and research activities, and propose scientific recommendations on the Draft Medium-Term Plan (2026-2030) to the upcoming Twenty-seventh Session of the Intergovernmental Meeting (IG27).

Opening Session

The SAC25 opened with welcoming remarks from Mr. Khamsene Ounekham, Director General of the Biotechnology and Ecology Institute, Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, who highlighted the importance of the SAC’s role in advancing atmospheric monitoring and regional collaboration. Dr. Toshimasa Ohara, Director General of the Asia Center for Air Pollution Research (ACAP), underscored the region’s persistent air pollution challenges and called for stronger science–policy links, innovative monitoring, and integration of climate and nitrogen management. Ms. Yujeong Kim, Ad Interim Coordinator for the Secretariat for the EANET, United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), emphasized the region’s progress and continued urgency in tackling air pollution, reflecting on EANET’s 25 years of achievements and upcoming plans, including drafting the Fifth Periodic Report on the State of Acid Deposition in East Asia (PRSAD5), and the next Medium-Term Plan for 2026-2030 aligned with the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.

Progress of EANET in 2024–2025

EANET continued to strengthen its Core and Project Activities under the current Medium-Term Plan (MTP) 2021–2025, advancing both its scientific and collaborative agenda.

Key highlights in 2025 included the organization of National Awareness Workshops in Lao PDR, and Mongolia, conducted in partnership with ESCAP’s Clean Air for Sustainable ASEAN (CASA) Project and the Northeast Asia Clean Air Partnership (NEACAP), respectively. These workshops contributed to raising awareness and strengthening technical capacity for air pollution monitoring and management in the region.

Promotion of data sharing with regional and global partners was enhanced, including through engagement with ESCAP’s Regional Action Programme on Air Pollution (RAPAP), the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC) data sharing platforms, and the World Health Organization (WHO)’s publication Air Quality, Energy and Health: Science and Policy Summaries. Significant progress was made on the drafting of the Fifth Medium-Term Plan (2026–2030), which will guide EANET’s next phase of strategic actions.

The Network Center presented updates on dry and wet deposition monitoring, catchment-scale ecosystem studies, and nitrogen management.

Adoption of Key Scientific Reports

The SAC25 reviewed and adopted several key technical documents including:

The EANET Data Report 2024, featuring updated monitoring results on wet and dry deposition, ozone, and ecosystem impacts across 13 EANET Participating Countries.
The Report on the Inter-Laboratory Comparison (ILC) Projects 2024, confirming the analytical consistency and reliability of laboratory analyses across the network.
The Updated National Monitoring Plans (NMPs), underscoring Participating Countries’ continued commitment to harmonized methodologies and improved data quality.

Strengthening Scientific Collaboration and Innovation

The SAC25 highlighted the importance of maintaining strong quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) systems, expanding data access, and fostering regional collaboration. The Committee endorsed the Guidelines for Establishing Hybrid Air Quality Monitoring Networks (HAQMN) and the Technical Manual for Hybrid Monitoring with Low-Cost Sensors, incorporating updates based on feedback from SAC24. These resources, developed with reference to standards from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), and the European Commission (EC), will guide EANET countries in improving data reliability and calibration practices. EANET also continued projects on Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) monitoring, PM₂.₅ source identification, and nitrogen management.

Looking Ahead

Twelve Project Plans for 2026 were also reviewed, including initiatives on nitrogen deposition assessment, satellite-based air quality monitoring, sustainable agriculture for clean air, and leadership training in atmospheric environment management. Project leads interested in collaborating with the EANET through the EANET Project Fund presented their project plans during the meeting. The Project leads included the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), Clean Air Asia, the Institute for Environment and Development (LESTARI), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), the Thailand Hub of Talents, and UNEP.

The SAC25 reviewed the Draft Medium-Term Plan (MTP) (2026–2030), which will guide EANET’s work for the next five years and reaffirmed EANET’s key role as a regional scientific network supporting cooperation and data-driven policymaking to improve air quality across East Asia.

Recommendations and outcomes from SAC25 will be presented at the Twenty-seventh Session of the Intergovernmental Meeting (IG27), to be held on 27-28 November in Bangkok, Thailand, back-to-back with UNEP’s Clean Air Week.

Read the SAC25 Report of the Session.

View the photos on Flickr.

EANET’s 26th Senior Technical Managers Meeting Gathers in Manila

Posted on 2025/09/142025/10/14 by Aurélia Lemoine

2 September 2025, Manila, Philippines

Senior technical officials from the EANET countries gathered for the Twenty-Sixth Senior Technical Managers’ Meeting (STM26) in Manila, Philippines, from the 2 to 3 September 2025, to review progress and plan national monitoring of Participating Countries, exchange scientific findings, and discuss the future direction of cooperative efforts under the upcoming Medium-Term Plan (2026–2030).

Hosted by the Government of the Philippines and organized by the EANET Network Center (Asia Center for Air Pollution Research, ACAP) with support from the Secretariat for the EANET, the meeting brought together over 50 experts from the 13 Participating Countries.

Opening Session: Reaffirming Regional Commitment

In her welcome remarks, Engr. Maria Dorica Naz-Hipe, Assistant Director of the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) of the Philippines, emphasized the importance of STM meetings as platforms for technical exchange and cooperation. She highlighted EANET’s role in ensuring data transparency, harmonizing monitoring practices, and enabling evidence-based policymaking to address air pollution challenges across East Asia.

Dr. Toshimasa Ohara, Director General of ACAP, echoed the call for collaboration, noting that EANET’s monitoring activities serve as the foundation for regional science-based policy decisions. He outlined key objectives of STM26, including reviewing the Preliminary Data Report 2024, the Inter-laboratory Comparison (ILC) results, and National Monitoring Plans (NMPs), as well as shaping the forthcoming Medium-Term Plan (MTP 2026–2030).

*Some participants at the STM26 meeting in Manila, Philippines on 2 September 2025*

Reviewing Progress: Strengthening Core Activities

The Secretariat reported on achievements since the last 26th Intergovernmental Meeting (IG26), including successful convening of Scientific Advisory Committee Meeting (SAC24) and IG26 in 2024, capacity-building workshops, and enhanced knowledge-sharing through outreach activities and material. The Network Center presented the Preliminary Draft Data Report 2024, covering wet and dry deposition, soil and vegetation, inland aquatic environment, and catchment-scale monitoring.

The 2024 ILC projects confirmed the importance of robust QA/QC systems. There were discussions on analytical methods for ammonium (NH₄⁺), where discrepancies between spectrophotometry and ion chromatography in some laboratories highlighted the need for capacity building and standardization. Countries were reminded to submit outstanding ILC data to finalize the report ahead of SAC25.

Each Participating Country presented the National Monitoirng Plan 2025 and its national monitoring priorities, challenges, and innovations. These inputs will inform the revised Summary of National Monitoring Plans to be presented at SAC25 in October in Lao PDR.

Towards the Next Medium-Term Plan (MTP) for 2026-2030

The meeting discussed monitoring activities including QA/QC and analysis of monitoring data relevant to the draft Medium Term Plan (2026–2030). Progress on EANET Project Fund activities was also reviewed including Guidelines on Hybrid Air Quality Monitoring Networks (HAQMN), Technical Guidance on VOC Monitoring and Catchment Monitoring/Analysis.

The meeting concluded with reflections on next steps, reaffirming the commitment of the Participating Countries to collaborative action on acid deposition and air pollution in East Asia.

View the photos on Flickr.

EANET Working Group Advances Medium-Term Plan Development and Project Proposals for 2026

Posted on 2025/08/142025/08/28 by Aurélia Lemoine

14 August 2025 – Bangkok, Thailand

The Working Group Meeting in 2025 (WG2025) on the EANET brought together over 60 participants virtually, including representatives from the 13 Participating Countries, UNEP, ACAP, the Secretariat and the Network Center for the EANET, and participants from other organizations presenting proposals for cooperation with EANET in 2026. The meeting mainly focused on the future direction of the network including on the review of the Second Draft Medium-Term Plan (MTP) (2026–2030) and proposed Project Activities for 2026.

Opening Remarks

Dr. Mushtaq Memon, Regional Coordinator for Chemicals and Pollution Action, United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific, highlighted the urgent need for stronger regional cooperation on air pollution, noting its growing recognition at global forums. He stressed that the new MTP will guide EANET’s future work and strengthen its role in regional and international initiatives.

Dr. Toshimasa Ohara, Director General of the Asia Center for Air Pollution Research (ACAP), pointed out East Asia’s serious challenges with pollutants such as ozone and PM2.5. He underlined EANET’s valuable two decades of monitoring and called for the new MTP to also address wider issues such as climate change and nitrogen management.

Shaping the Next Medium-Term Plan (2026-2030)

A central focus of the meeting was the consultation on the Second Draft Medium-Term Plan (2026–2030). Participating Countries welcomed the revisions made following the June 2025 Working Group Meeting on the First Draft of the MTP (2026-2030), noting significant improvements.

Countries highlighted the importance of leveraging new technologies while stressing the need for resource mobilization strategies to support the next MTP. The draft will undergo further written consultations until September, with the final version to be considered at the upcoming Intergovernmental Meeting (IG27) in November 2025.

Screenshot of some participants during the WG2025 virtual meeting

New Project Activities Proposed for 2026

The meeting also reviewed nine draft Project Plans and two Concept Notes for 2026. These proposals cover diverse themes, including:

Proposed Project Plans (EPPs)

EPP 2026-01: Accumulation of atmospheric nitrogen deposition data for sustainable nitrogen management in existing EANET monitoring sites
EPP 2026-02: Fellowship for building leadership in Atmospheric Environment and Air Quality Management in East Asia
EPP 2026-03: Collaboration of Technical and Training (TNT) and capacity building program for personnel of the Participating Countries on monitoring
EPP 2026-04: Webinar for understanding of influences by changing climate on air quality over East Asia
EPP 2026-05: Capacity building webinar workshop on application of satellite observation for atmospheric environmental management
EPP 2026-06: Methodological Study on PM2.5 Source Identification and Capacity Enhancement in EANET with Emphasis on Southeast Asia
EPP 2026-07: Strengthening EANET Capacity in Financing Strategies for Project Planning and Advanced Methods for Monitoring of Air Pollution and Emissions
EPP 2026-08: Driving Action through Data: Development of the EANET Data Dashboard
EPP 2026-09: Enhancing Regional Understanding of Black Carbon Pollution through Integrated Monitoring Across EANET Countries

Proposed Project Concept Notes (PCNs)

PCN 2026-01: Knowledge exchange and capacity strengthening on sustainable agricultural practices for clean air in Mekong region
PCN 2026-02: Strengthening capacity on air quality legislation: Capacity building workshop on Law and Air Quality for EANET

Countries emphasized the need to prioritize projects within the scope of the EANET (based on its Annex to EANET Instrument) and encouraged expanding capacity-building initiatives.

All Project Plans and Concept Notes, with modifications when relevant, will be further considered at the upcoming Scientific Advisory Committee Meeting (SAC25) on the EANET held on 20-22 October in Vientiane, Lao PDR, before being submitted for final consideration and approval at the Twenty-seventh Intergovernmental meeting on the EANET (IG27) in November 2025 in Bangkok, Thailand.

Next Steps

EANET representatives will meet again in September during the Twenty-sixth Senior Technical Manager’s Meeting (STM26) in Manila, Philippines, followed by the SAC25 and IG27. The IG27 will review the Final Draft of the Medium-Term Plan (2026–2030) supporting EANET’s strengthened role in tackling air pollution and advancing regional cooperation in East Asia.

Read the Meeting Report.

The Working Group Meeting on the First Draft of the MTP (2026-2030)

Posted on 2025/06/23 by Aurélia Lemoine

23 June 2025 – Bangkok, Thailand

EANET held its Working Group Meeting (WG-MTP2025) virtually to discuss the First Draft of its Medium-Term Plan (MTP) for (2026–2030) on 10 and 11 June 2025, gathering over 50 representatives from the EANET 13 Participating Countries, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the Secretariat and the Network Center for the EANET.

Opening Remarks

In his opening remarks, Dr. Mushtaq Memon, Regional Coordinator for Chemicals and Pollution Action, United Nations Environment Programme, Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific, emphasized the significance of the Medium-Term Plan (2026–2030) for guiding EANET’s future activities, promoting regional cooperation on air pollution, and encouraging active participation to enhance air quality and partnerships across Asia. He noted its alignment with international frameworks such as the UNEA-6 resolution on Promoting regional cooperation on air pollution to improve air quality globally. Prof. Meng Fan Deputy Director General, Asia Center for Air Pollution Research (ACAP), highlighted EANET’s key role in regional air pollution monitoring since 2001, emphasized the importance of its expanded scope to address broader environmental challenges, and called for continued cooperation, technological innovation, and integration of science into policy to strengthen its impact.

Key Discussions

The meeting’s discussions focused on the three proposed outcomes of the First Draft MTP: (1) improved understanding of air pollution and atmospheric deposition, (2) better access to evidence-based policy information, and (3) enhanced regional cooperation. Countries acknowledged the improved quality of the draft since the Consultation Meeting on the Zero Draft of the MTP (2026-2030) held in April 2025, and offered suggestions for further clarification and streamlining.

Among other topics, participants discussed how new technologies could support existing ground monitoring. The scope of activities was reviewed to ensure consistency with the EANET Instrument and its Annex and the allocated budget considered. The need for clear definitions was emphasized, with agreement that further consultations during the Working Group Meeting in 2025 (WG2025) on August 7-8 would refine these areas.

*Screenshot of some participants at the WG-MTP2025 online meeting on 10 June 2025*

Path Forward to the Twenty-seventh Intergovernmental Meeting on the EANET

The Secretariat outlined the timeline for finalizing the MTP, including a follow-up consutation during the Working Group meeting in 2025 (WG2025) on 7 and 8 August 2025, and submission to the Twenty-fifth Scientific Advisory Committee meeting (SAC25) in October, and for consideration and possible adoption at the Twenty-seventh Intergovernmental Meeting (IG27) on the EANET in November 2025.

The IG27 will be hosted by Thailand on 27-28 November, and will be held in Bangkok during the same week as UNEP’s Clean Air Week from 24 to 28 November 2025, further highlighting regional efforts to improve air quality.

As EANET moves toward its next five-year phase, the meeting reaffirmed the Network’s crucial role in driving cooperation, scientific exchange, and informed policy action across East Asia.

Read the Meeting Report.

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