ACAP | EANET Acid Deposition Monitoring Network in East Asia

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.

The Consultation Meeting on the Zero Draft of the Medium-Term Plan (2026–2030) for the EANET

Posted on 2025/04/282025/06/23 by Aurélia Lemoine

28 April 2025 – Bangkok, Thailand

The Consultation Meeting on the Zero Draft of the Medium-Term Plan (MTP) (2026–2030) for the EANET took place virtually on 24–25 April 2025. The development of EANET’s next Medium-Term Plan for 2026-2030 is an important milestone and provides an opportunity to make EANET even more impactful and relevant in the region. The next five years of EANET’s work will also lead towards the 2030 deadline for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Over 70 representatives from the Participating Countries, the Secretariat for the EANET hosted by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and from the Asia Center for Air Pollution Research (ACAP) serving as the Network Center (NC) for the EANET, joined to discuss and review the Zero Draft of the MTP and provide strategic input.

Opening Remarks

Dr. Mushtaq Memon, Regional Coordinator for Chemicals and Pollution Action, UNEP, Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific, opened the session by highlighting EANET’s progress in tackling acid deposition and air pollution, including its 2021 scope expansion to cover other atmospheric substances. He emphasized the network’s growing regional and global recognition, particularly through recent UN resolutions, and encouraged feedback on the Zero Draft Medium-Term Plan, reaffirming UNEP’s ongoing support.

Dr. Toshimasa Ohara, Director General of the Asia Center for Air Pollution Research (ACAP), followed with remarks stressing the complexity of managing PM_2.5and ozone pollution, which varies by country and requires knowledge-sharing and multilateral cooperation. He pointed to rising pollutant concentrations as evidence that national efforts alone are insufficient and welcomed the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)’s work on Short-Lived Climate Forcers. He underlined the importance of co-benefits, nitrogen management, and strategic planning for EANET’s future, expressing optimism for meaningful discussions ahead.

Key Discussions

*Screenshot from some participants at the CM-MTP2025 meeting*

The Secretariat and Network Center for the EANET presented the Zero Draft Medium-Term Plan, outlining proposed scientific, technical, and intergovernmental activities.

Key discussions focused on the Draft’s conceptual framework, existing Core and new activities, potential Project Activities, and indicative budgets. Participants, including EANET National Focal Points and Scientific Advisory Committee members, provided feedback and guidance to support the development of the First Draft MTP to be presented during the next working group meeting in June. They discussed air pollution components to prioritize, in line with the EANET’s defined scope included in the Annex to the Instrument.

They also stressed the importance of strengthening monitoring systems, exploring new and cost-efficient technologies as well as expanding capacity-building initiatives.

Next Steps

The First Draft of the MTP (2026-2030) will be discussed at The Working Group Meeting on the Draft of the MTP (2026-2030) (WG-MTP2025), to be organized online on 10-11 June 2025. The final draft of the EANET MTP (2026-2030) will be deliberated for adoption at the 27th Intergovernmental Meeting (IG27) in November 2025.

The meeting concluded with a shared appreciation for the participants’ contributions and reaffirmed commitment to improving air quality in East Asia through collaborative action.

Read the Report of the Session (available soon)

Considering Volatile Organic Compounds Emission Inventories and Their Policy Implications: Insights from the EANET Workshop in 2024

Posted on 2025/03/202025/03/20 by Aurélia Lemoine

20 March 2025 – Bangkok, Thailand

The Network Center for the EANET organized a virtual workshop on the Emission Inventory of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and its Application for Policy Consideration on December 4, 2024. The workshop consisted of two sessions: expert lectures and participant presentations. The first session covered key topics such as the importance of developing an emission inventory for atmospheric environmental management, methodologies to estimate VOCs’ emissions from stationary sources, the transportation sector, and biogenic sources. It also included air quality modeling of VOCs and control measures for VOCs. Participants shared the status of VOCs management in their respective countries and discussed ideas for EANET’s involvement in addressing VOCs’ issues. Approximately 60 participants attended the workshop.

Exploring Emission Inventory Methodologies and Applications: Insights from Experts

Dr. Jun-ichi Kurokawa, from the Asia Center for Air Pollution Research serving as the Network Center for the EANET, delivered a lecture on the introduction of emission inventories, focusing on their roles in managing atmospheric environmental issues and the basic methodology to develop an emission inventory, particularly for Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) emissions from stationary sources. The presentation began by highlighting the necessity and framework of air quality management, emphasizing the importance of VOCs and emission inventories. For methodologies, general procedures to develop emission inventories were explained, following the process flow of the development from defining the scope and structure to create emission tables and gridded data. Next, the methodology for estimating VOCs emissions from stationary sources was presented. This included details of sector categories, examples of fugitive emissions characteristics of VOCs sources, collecting and setting activity data, emission factors, removal efficiencies, speciation to components, and calculating emissions to create final products. References for methodologies to develop emission inventories were also introduced.

Dr. Tazuko Morikawa from the Japan Automobile Research Institute delivered a lecture on the methodology for estimating emissions from road transport. The lecture began with an overview of global changes in passenger cars and heavy duty vehicles, including electrification targets for passenger cars aimed at mitigating both climate change and air pollution. Next, the necessary information for developing emission inventories for the road transport sector was detailed. This included characteristics of gasoline and diesel vehicles, methods for calculating tail pipe emissions, the definition and estimation of evaporative emission from gasoline vehicles (which are particularly important for VOCs), and component species of VOCs in emissions from the road transport sector. Finally, bioethanol-blended fuels originally introduced to mitigate climate change were discussed due to their impact on air pollutants emissions.

*Screenshot of some participants during the Workshop*

Dr. Justin Sentian, from Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Malaysia, delivered a lecture on VOCs emissions from biogenic sources. Biogenic VOCs (BVOCs) are organic compounds emitted by plants and other biological sources. Although these are natural sources, the importance of BVOCs was highlighted due to their strong impact on the formation of ozone and secondary PM_2.5. Understanding the contribution of BVOCs is essential for developing effective policies to control anthropogenic VOCs emissions. The lecture also covered the recent status of BVOCs emissions and case studies for Southeast Asia, including future simulations under different climate scenarios. Since BVOCs emissions are significantly influenced by temperature, climate change impacts BVOCs emissions, which in turn affects ozone and PM_2.5concentrations.

Dr. Satoru Chatani from the National Institute for Environmental Studies presented a lecture on the air quality modeling of anthropogenic VOCs. The lecture began by introducing the necessities and roles of air quality simulations for VOCs, which help understand complex physical and chemical processes, including non-linear relationships among NO_x, VOCs, and ozone. Next, the treatment of VOCs and their photochemical reactions was explained, including popular chemical modules and VOCs speciation used in air quality models. Application methodologies of air quality models to analyze VOCs issues were then introduced, covering validations and evaluations of simulated results based on monitoring data. This highlighted the importance of monitoring of VOCs and their components. It was emphasized that air quality modeling is essential for developing effective strategies to suppress ambient concentrations of secondary pollutants.

Dr. Shinichi Yonemochi from the Center for Environmental Science in Saitama delivered a lecture on control measures of VOCs using the case of Saitama Prefecture of Japan. The lecture began with an overview of the current and historical backgrounds of Saitama Prefecture focusing on the status of ozone pollution. Regulations of VOCs in Saitama Prefecture, including legal measures and voluntary actions by companies to reduce VOCs were explained.

Next, trends in VOCs emissions from major sources in Saitama Prefecture were presented to demonstrate the effects of these regulations. Examples of actual control measures were introduced, includingVOCs’ emission control techniques, VOC measuring instruments, and experiences using them in various applications such as for outdoor painting and the cleaning process for printing machines.

Addressing the Status and Issues of VOCs: Perspectives from Participants

During the second session, participants exchanged information on VOCs related issues in their countries, including the general status of air quality, specific topics such as the management of the petrochemical industry, and the progress and challenges in developing VOCs emission inventories. As in previous workshops, many countries identified the continuous enhancement of national emission inventories as a challenge and expressed the desire for additional EANET projects focusing on capacity-building activities. Suggestions included not only webinars but also on-site training courses for major source categories of the emission inventory. The Network Center for the EANET, as the workshop organizer, will assess potential future activities through the EANET Project Fund.

Find out more about the EANET Project Fund.

Useful Resources

Outline and Program
Panelists and Participants’ Presentations:
- Introduction of Emission Inventory and VOCs Emissions From Stationary Sources (by Dr. Jun-ichi Kurokawa)
- VOCs Emissions from Road Transport (by Dr. Tazuko Morikawa)
- NMVOCs Emissions from Biogenic Sources (by Dr. Justin Sentian)
- Air Quality Modeling of NMVOCs (by Dr. Satoru Chatani)
- Control Measures of VOCs: Case Study of Saitama Prefecture of Japan (by Dr. Shinichi Yonemochi)
- Presentations from Participants

Highlights of the EANET Online Seminar on Particulate Matter and Haze in Southeast Asia

Posted on 2025/02/122025/04/30 by Aurélia Lemoine

12 February 2025 – Niigata, Japan

The EANET Online Seminar for Particulate Matter Problems including Haze in Southeast Asia took place on 20 December 2024. Organized by the Network Center for the EANET, it gathered 88 participants, from the EANET Participating Countries and beyond, to discuss the various effects of PM/Haze pollution on ecosystems and human health.

Opening Session

Prof. Fan Meng, Deputy Director General, of the Asia Center for Air Pollution Research, ACAP (the Network Center for the EANET), delivered the Opening Remarks. He highlighted the need for integrated approaches to address shared challenges, particularly in cooperation between EANET and the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution (AATHP).

Mr. Bert Fabian, Coordinator of the Secretariat for the EANET delivered the Welcome Remarks. He emphasized the importance of understanding pollution sources, meteorological influences, and the need for collaborative efforts among scientists, government officials, and intergovernmental bodies like ASEAN to mitigate this problem.

Effects of Particulate Matter (PM) in the Atmospheric Environment in East Asia

Mr. Wiraditma Prananta, from the Environment Division at the ASEAN Secretariat highlighted ASEAN’s commitment to addressing transboundary haze pollution through the Second ASEAN Haze-Free Roadmap 2023–2030. He outlined the historical impacts of haze pollution, ASEAN’s adoption of the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution (AATHP), and the development of successive haze-free roadmaps, with the current one aiming to eliminate haze by 2030 through strategies such as sustainable land management and enhanced monitoring. The roadmap emphasizes regional and subregional activities, sustainable peatland management, and a haze knowledge portal while addressing challenges such as resource mobilization and root causes of fires. Mr. Wiraditma Prananta concluded with a call for collaboration among stakeholders to achieve a haze-free region and improve environmental and air quality standards by 2030.

Mr. Zhong-Yi Chia, from the ASEAN Specialized Meteorological Centre (ASMC) explained the small haze dispersion modeling efforts at ASMC, focusing on the integration of fire hotspot emissions, weather forecasts, and observational data to predict haze spread. He highlighted the challenges of modeling in the tropical region, such as thick cloud cover, transient weather phenomena, and limited ground observation coverage, while detailing the use of tools such as the United Kingdom’s Met Office’s Numerical Atmospheric-dispersion Modelling Environment (NAME) model and wildfire emission estimations based on fire radiative power and land cover maps.

Dr. Eric Zusman, from the Integrated Sustainability Centre, Institute for Global Environment Strategies (IGES) focused on addressing haze pollution in Southeast Asia, emphasizing the need for multi-level and multi-stakeholder solutions, particularly through the implementation of a roadmap running from 2023 to 2030. The roadmap includes nine strategies targeting PM2.5 pollution and haze episodes, aligning with the World Health Organization’s air pollution standards and promoting evidence-based, integrated approaches tied to climate, biodiversity, and development goals. Key challenges to implementing solutions, such as open burning restrictions, stem from social, institutional, economic, and technological barriers. He advocated for enabling environments, awareness programs, and innovative governance models to overcome these barriers, leveraging both cooperative and competitive frameworks for scaling effective solutions.

*Panelists from the EANET Online Seminar on Particulate Matter and Haze in Southeast Asia*

Overview of the Scientific Knowledge on PM Pollution in Other Regions

Dr. Jan Eiof Jonson from the Meteorological Synthesizing Centre-West of EMEP (MSC-W of EMEP), Norwegian Meteorological Institute, focused on the Convention on Long-Range Transboundary Air Pollution under United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), addressing environmental challenges such as acid deposition, air pollution, and wildfire impacts. He highlighted the establishment of monitoring centers across Europe and North America to track emissions, pollutants such as PM 2.5, and their transboundary effects. Pollution reduction trends, driven by legislation, are noted, though discrepancies in reporting and uncertainties remain. Satellite data and emission datasets including the Global Fire Assimilation System (GFAS) and FINN v2.5 are utilized for monitoring wildfire emissions and assessing their effects on air quality and climate. Key challenges include differences in emission estimates, injection heights, fire radiative power, and regional variability. He stressed the need for global collaboration and further refinement in modeling to support effective policy development, particularly in Europe.

Closing Session

Dr. Toshimasa Ohara, Director General of ACAP, delivered the Closing Remarks. He emphasized the importance and common challenge for all countries in Southeast Asia to gain a better understanding of the status of PM health pollution and to explore the best solutions to reduce it. He concluded by expressing hope that this workshop would be a good opportunity to strengthen collaboration between EANET and the ASEAN.

Find out more on EANET Project Fund and EANET Projects.

Useful Resources:

Watch the recording on YouTube
Read the Panelists’ Presentations:
- Session 1-1 by Mr. Prananta
- Session 1-2 by Mr. Chia
- Session 1-3 by Dr. Zusman
- Session 2 by Dr. Jonson

EANET VOCs Project Annual Meeting 2025 Strengthens Regional Cooperation on Air Quality

Posted on 2025/10/272025/12/19 by Aurélia Lemoine

October 2025 – Gwangju, Republic of Korea

The EANET Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) Project Annual Meeting 2025 was successfully held from 15 to 17 October 2025 at the Kim Daejung Convention Center in Gwangju, Republic of Korea. The meeting brought together 25 participants from Cambodia, China, Japan, Mongolia, the Philippines, the Republic of Korea, Thailand, and Viet Nam, and the United States, participating both in person and online. The event was organized by the Network Center for the EANET in collaboration with the Korean Society for Atmospheric Environment (KOSAE).

EANET VOCs Annual Meeting: Reviewing Progress and Future Plans

The EANET VOCs Annual Meeting, held from 15 to 16 October, provided a platform for reviewing project implementation, promoting EANET’s VOC initiatives, and exchanging scientific knowledge on emerging trends in VOC emissions. Opening remarks by Dr. Toshimasa Ohara, Director General of the Asia Center for Air Pollution Research (ACAP), and Prof. Gang-Woong Lee of Hankuk University of Foreign Studies highlighted the urgent need to strengthen VOC monitoring across East Asia to support regional air quality management.

Representatives from Mongolia, the Philippines, Cambodia, and Viet Nam presented progress achieved in 2025 and outlined their implementation plans for 2026, as part of the EANET Project Capacity Building in Promoting VOCs in the EANET. Participants also discussed next steps for the project. In addition, the EANET Network Center introduced the outline of a technical training guidance for VOC monitoring, noting that a drafting committee has been established and a preparation schedule agreed.

KOSAE–ACAP Joint International Symposia

On 15 October, the KOSAE–ACAP Joint International Symposia I and II featured expert presentations on VOC monitoring, source apportionment, and management strategies in East Asia and beyond. Speakers shared recent findings from field campaigns, laboratory studies, and policy-oriented research, highlighting advances in measurement techniques and the role of VOCs in ozone and PM₂.₅ formation.

Plenary Session at the KOSAE Conference

The KOSAE Conference Plenary Session on 16 October offered a broader perspective on VOC emissions and air quality challenges. Presentations addressed trends and future projections of anthropogenic VOC emissions in East Asia, difficulties in achieving ozone standards, and recent progress and remaining challenges in national air quality improvement efforts.

EANET VOC Seminars: Advancing Technical Knowledge

EANET VOC Seminars 1 and 2, held from 16 to 17 October, focused on advanced monitoring techniques, emission inventories, modeling approaches, and environmental impacts of VOCs, including secondary organic aerosol formation. The seminars also highlighted ongoing and new international collaborative research initiatives.

Closing Remarks

In closing, Dr. Meng Fan, Deputy Director-General of ACAP and the EANET Network Center, expressed sincere appreciation to KOSAE for its strong cooperation in co-organizing the meeting and thanked participating countries, experts, and partner institutions for their continued engagement. He reaffirmed EANET’s commitment to strengthening regional collaboration on VOC monitoring and research to improve air quality across East Asia.

Read the full summary of the event here.

Collaboration in Action: NIER and EANET Wrap Up Session 2 of their 2025 Air Quality Training

Posted on 2025/12/11 by Aurélia Lemoine

September–October 2025, Republic of Korea and Japan

Four government officials and researchers from China, the Philippines, Russia, and Thailand completed an intensive, capacity-building program on acid deposition and air quality management. Co-organized by EANET and the National Institute of Environmental Research (NIER), Republic of Korea, the Technical and Training (TNT) and Capacity Building Program aimed to strengthen technical expertise among the EANET Participating Countries.

Advanced Technical Training in Republic of Korea

The first part of the program took place in Republic of Korea from September 25 to October 2, 2025. At NIER in Incheon, participants were introduced to the institute’s mission and work on environmental protection and public health. Visits to key institutions included Seoul National University (SNU), the Jeju Island Air Quality Research Center, the Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), the National Air Emission Inventory Research Center (NAIR), and the Environmental satellite Center(ESC).

“The part I found most engaging was learning how NIER and NAIR integrate satellite monitoring, emission inventories, and national policies to reduce PM concentrations. I found it interesting to see how advanced technology is practically applied to support evidence-based policymaking.”

— A comment from a trainee

At SNU, trainees received instruction in air filter sampling and analysis techniques. During their visit to the Jeju Center, they learned about the history and role of the center, the air quality monitoring network, data management, equipment, and emission inventory. At UNIST, the focus shifted to research on air quality monitoring and satellite-ground validation studies. At NAIR, trainees learned how air emissions data from various sources is compiled to support environmental policy and compliance. Finally, at ESC, they gained insight into how GEMS satellite data enhances real-time and regional air quality monitoring, as well as data integration techniques that combine emissions, satellite observations, and modeling.

“I was particularly interested in the advanced monitoring of both particulate and gaseous pollutants. Understanding how these measurements can be applied to identify pollution sources and track air quality trends made this part of the training very relevant and engaging.”

— A comment from a trainee

“I didn’t know about GEMS and Pandora before. The visit helped me to learn about GEMS and Pandora – satellite systems used for air quality observation. This helped me understand how satellite data can support ground monitoring.”

— A comment from a trainee

Immersive Training in Japan

From October 6 to 10, 2025, the training continued in Japan.

At the Asia Center for Air Pollution Research (ACAP), participants engaged in various studies covering topics such as Atmospheric Deposition, Filter Pack and Wet Deposition Monitoring, and Ion Chromatography (IC). They attended lectures on atmospheric deposition, conducted EC and pH measurements for wet samples, and maintained equipment including rain samplers, PM2.5 analyzers, and ozone calibrator. Additionally, they performed IC measurements for both wet and dry samples and carried out data checks for reference and low-cost sensors.

“I found it most interesting to learn about EANET and ACAP’s role in coordinating air quality monitoring across participating countries. The training highlighted how the network enables countries to share data, standardize methods, and collaborate on addressing transboundary air pollution. It was interesting to see how regional cooperation strengthens scientific capacity and policy making in each member country.”

— A comment from a trainee

“I was particularly interested in the session on Low-Cost Sensor (LCS) monitoring, as it was impressive to learn how LCS technology can complement conventional monitoring stations by expanding spatial coverage and providing more localized air quality data. Additionally, the short lecture on automatic monitor maintenance for PM2.5 was highly insightful—it emphasized the importance of proper calibration, routine checks, and maintenance to ensure data accuracy and instrument reliability, which are vital for continuous and dependable air quality monitoring across participating countries.”

— A comment from a trainee

Sharing Knowledge Across the Region

Feedback after the training indicated that all participants found the program in both the Republic of Korea and Japan to be extremely valuable. It is anticipated that the knowledge and experiences gained will be shared with colleagues through seminars, lectures, or study meetings in their home countries. This sharing is expected to contribute to the development of skills in air quality management throughout the EANET region.

“I plan to utilize the knowledge and skills I gained from the NIER and ACAP trainings by applying them directly to my work in the operation and maintenance of PM2.5 and wet deposition samplers, as well as in Ion Chromatography (IC) and mass concentration analysis (if possible). The training enhanced my understanding of data quality assurance, calibration, sensor comparison, and the integration of satellite and ground-based data. I intend to apply these learnings in improving the accuracy and reliability of our air quality monitoring activities, particularly in our EANET monitoring sites, and to share this knowledge with colleagues through technical discussions and capacity-building initiatives within our laboratory.”

— A comment from a trainee

Supporting Regional Cooperation

The 2025 TNT and EANET Capacity Building Program was approved as a Project Activity at the Twenty-sixth Session of the Intergovernmental Meeting on the EANET in November 2024. It was co-funded by the EANET Project Fund and the Republic of Korea, representing a continued commitment to regional cooperation in environmental protection.

Find more about the EANET Project Fund.

View more photos on Flickr.

NIER and EANET Wrap Up Session 1 of the 2025 Training on Air Quality Management

Posted on 2025/05/052025/06/26 by Aurélia Lemoine

5 May 2025, Japan and the Republic of Korea

Four government officials and researchers from Cambodia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, and Mongolia completed an intensive, capacity-building program on acid deposition and air quality management. Co-organized by EANET and the National Institute of Environmental Research (NIER), Republic of Korea, the Technical and Training (TNT) program aimed to strengthen technical expertise among EANET Participating Countries.

Immersive Training in Japan

The first part of the program began in Japan from April 14 to 18, 2025. At the National Institute for Environmental Studies (NIES) in Tsukuba, trainees were introduced to advanced research facilities, including the atmospheric chamber and lidar system. Lectures covered various topics such as oceanic observation networks, Fourier-transformed infrared spectrometry (FTS), and chemical ionization mass spectrometry (CI-MS).

*Participants in Japan during Session 1 of the TNT training in April 2025*

At the Asia Center for Air Pollution Research (ACAP), participants studied topics including the ecological effects of atmospheric deposition, QA/QC activities in EANET, and the Inter-laboratory Comparison Project. Training also covered monitoring of soil, vegetation, and aquatic environments, and included a site visit to the Niigata city monitoring station to observe practical applications in air quality monitoring.

“Visiting the Niigata Monitoring Site and the Niigata Prefecture office provides an excellent opportunity to learn about local air quality monitoring and environmental management practices. The monitoring site offers hands-on experience in collecting and analyzing real-time air quality data, while the Prefecture office provides insight into how data is used to inform policy decisions and pollution control strategies at the regional level. This combined knowledge will be valuable for improving air quality management and implementing effective environmental policies in my country.”

— A comment from a trainee

Advanced Technical Training in Korea

From April 21 to May 2, 2025, the training continued in the Republic of Korea. At NIER in Incheon, participants were introduced to the institute’s mission and work on environmental protection and public health. Visits to key institutions included Seoul National University (SNU), the Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), the National Air Emission Inventory Research Center (NAIR), the Han River Environmental Research Center, and the Jeju Island Air Quality Research Center.

“The cruise ship tour on the Bukhan River was a memorable experience, allowing me to enjoy the natural scenery, observe the habitat of black birds, and learn how the river’s water quality is measured.”

— A comment from a trainee

*Participants in Republic of Korea during the Session 1 of the TNT training in April-May 2025*

At SNU, trainees received instruction in air filter sampling and analysis techniques. At UNIST, the focus was on international research collaboration and satellite monitoring validation. At NAIR, they learned how air emissions data from various sources is compiled to support environmental policy and compliance. The Jeju Center visit introduced trainees to remote sensing and high-precision instruments for monitoring air pollutants such as particulate matter, ozone, and sulfur compounds.

“The National Air Emission Inventory and Research Center (NAIR) of Korea is highly valuable for my capacity building because it leads in the systematic collection, analysis, and management of national air emissions data, which directly supports evidence-based air quality policies. As a professional in Air Quality, Noise, and Vibration, learning from NAIR’s advanced emission inventory system, modeling tools, and data validation methods would significantly enhance my technical skills and support the development of more accurate and effective air quality strategies in my country.”

— A comment from a trainee

Sharing Knowledge Across the Region

According to post-training feedback, all participants found the program in both Japan and the Republic of Korea to be highly valuable. It is expected that the experience and knowledge gained will be shared with colleagues through seminars, lectures, or study meetings in their home countries, contributing to capacity building in air quality management across the EANET region.

“The discussion on the challenges faced by each country regarding the main sources of environmental pollution is an important matter, as it provides participants with the opportunity to share their views, experiences, and suggestions based on their respective national contexts. This allows for a deeper understanding of regional pollution issues and paves the way for more effective collaboration and solutions through platforms such as EANET.”

— A comment from a trainee

Supporting Regional Cooperation

Find more about the EANET Project Fund.

View more photos on Flickr

The Second Session of the Technical and Training Capacity Building Program in 2024

Posted on 2025/02/062025/04/30 by Aurélia Lemoine

6 February 2025 – Niigata, Japan

The Technical and Training (TNT) program of the National Institute of Environmental Research (NIER), Republic of Korea, and the EANET Capacity Building Program have been collaborating since 2023 to provide training on acid deposition and air quality management for the EANET Participating Countries. The second session of the program was held in Japan and the Republic of Korea in September and October 2024, offering training to four government representatives from the EANET Participating Countries.

NIER’s TNT and EANET’s Capacity Building Program Session 2 in September-October 2024

In 2024, the program was structured into two sessions, each comprising two parts, alternating between the Republic of Korea and Japan. The second session started in Japan from September 30 to October 4, 2024, followed by the Republic of Korea from October 7 to October 18, 2024. Four government officials and researchers from four EANET Participating Countries (China, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Viet Nam) were selected to participate in this training, based on their professional backgrounds, technical expertise in monitoring activities, and motivation.

From late September to early October in Japan, at the Asia Center for Air Pollution Research (ACAP) in Niigata, EANET’s Network Center, participants attended lectures covering a wide array of atmospheric environmental issues. The trainees also learned about the mechanisms and processes of atmospheric deposition, including wet and dry deposition, QA/QC activity, calculation of the deposition flux and so on. Furthermore, participants learned about the monitoring equipment and how the data contribute to the air quality assessments. In the hands-on training, they learned the procedures for assembling filter packs to ensure accurate sampling, EC/pH analysis for rain samples, and the process of analysis using ion chromatography for the rain and filter pack samples including preparing standards solutions. By using ion chromatography, participants learned basic troubleshooting skills to avoid issues while handling and conducting analyses. Finally, participants visited the monitoring site in Niigata city, stationed in the Niigata prefecture office, where the telemeter system is located. During this visit, participants gained practical insights into how air quality monitoring is conducted in Niigata prefecture and learned about the challenges and real-world applications of air quality monitoring in a local context including costing and operations.

*The four EANET trainees during the TNT and EANET Capacity Building Program in Niigata in September-October 2024*

From early to mid-October, participants travelled to the Republic of Korea and underwent comprehensive training at the National Institute of Environmental Research (NIER) in Incheon. During this training, lecturers presented the primary responsibilities and mission of NIER related to environmental protection and public health in the Republic of Korea. The trainees also visited several key institutions, including the Atmospheric Environment and Climate Change Laboratory at Seoul National University (SNU), the Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), the National Air Emission Inventory Research Center (NAIR), the Han River Environmental Research Center, and the Jeju Island Air Quality Research Center. At SNU, the trainees learned about filtering and sampling techniques, filter extraction, and mass concentration measurement, as well as the analysis of microelements using methods like X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and organic carbon/elemental carbon (OC/EC) analysis. They gained practical experience in conducting these analyses during hands-on laboratory sessions. At UNIST, they attended lectures on international research collaboration related to air quality, research instruments and tools for air quality analysis, and methods for validating satellite monitoring techniques. During their visit to NAIR, the trainees learned how the center compiles and manages data on pollutants from various sources, including industries, vehicles, and natural phenomena. This data supports air quality policies, regulations, and compliance assessments. The trainees also visited the Han River Environmental Research Center, where they explored the technologies and methods used to safeguard the environment of Paldang Lake. They delved into achievements in water quality monitoring, including analyzing the root causes of pollutants and studying biological indicators. Finally, they visited NIER’s Jeju monitoring station, where they learned about the use of advanced instruments and techniques, including high-precision analyzers and remote sensing tools. These instruments are employed to study air pollutants like particulate matter, ozone, and sulfur compounds, along with their sources and transport patterns.

*The four EANET trainees during the TNT and EANET Capacity Building Program in Seoul, Ulsan, and Incheon in October 2024*

Enhancing Expertise in the EANET Participating Countries

The training’s feedback survey indicated that all participants found the program in Japan and the Republic of Korea to be highly valuable. It is anticipated that the experience and knowledge gained will be disseminated to colleagues in their respective countries through seminars, lectures, or study meetings, further enhancing expertise in air quality management in the EANET Participating Countries.

The TNT and EANET Capacity Building Program in 2024 was approved at the Twenty-fifth Session of the Intergovernmental Meeting on the EANET (IG25) in November 2023 as a Project Activity, co-funded by the EANET Project Fund and the Republic of Korea.

Find out more about the EANET Project Fund.

The First Session of the Technical and Training Capacity Building Program in 2024

Posted on 2024/07/312025/04/30 by Aurélia Lemoine

The First Session of the Technical and Training Capacity Building Program in 2024_group photo

31 July 2024, Niigata, Japan

The Technical and Training (TNT) program of the National Institute of Environmental Research (NIER), Republic of Korea, and the EANET Capacity Building Program have been collaborating since 2023 to provide training on acid deposition and air quality management for the EANET Participating Countries. The first session of the program was held in the Republic of Korea and Japan in April and May 2024, offering training to four government representatives from the EANET Participating Countries.

Background

Since 2002, the EANET has trained over 200 government officials and researchers on acid deposition and air quality management through its individual training and capacity-building activities conducted mainly at the Asia Center for Air Pollution Research (ACAP) in Niigata, Japan, which hosts the Network Center for the EANET.

The National Institute of Environmental Research (NIER), part of the Ministry of Environment in the Republic of Korea, was established in 1978. It serves as the country’s primary research institution for various environmental aspects. NIER is based in Incheon and operates 12 air quality monitoring stations and 4 river research centers. The institute conducts extensive research and policy development on environmental health, climate, air quality, water resources, and energy, and collaborates on international projects aimed at global environmental protection.

NIER’s TNT and EANET’s Capacity Building Program Session 1 in April-May 2024

In 2024, the program was structured into two sessions, each comprising two parts, alternating between the Republic of Korea and Japan. The first session started in the Republic of Korea from April 28 to May 11, 2024, followed by Japan from May 11 to May 18, 2024. Four government officials and researchers from four EANET Participating Countries were selected to participate in this training, based on their professional backgrounds, technical expertise in monitoring activities, and motivation.

From late April to early May, in the Republic of Korea, participants first underwent comprehensive training at the National Institute of Environmental Research (NIER) in Incheon, where lecturers presented their primary responsibilities, ongoing projects, and the specialized tools and instruments utilized in their divisions. Additionally, the trainees visited the Atmospheric Environment and Climate Change Laboratory at Seoul National University (SNU) and Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST). During their visit to SNU, they learned about filtering and sampling, filter extraction and mass concentration measurement, and analysis of microelements (XRF, OC/EC). In the laboratory hands-on section, they gained practical experience in conducting analyses. At UNIST, lectures on international research collaboration on air quality, research instruments and tools for analyzing air quality, and method validation of satellite monitoring were delivered. The trainees also explored NIER’s Jeju monitoring station and the National Air Emission Inventory and Research Center (NAIR) under the Ministry of Environment of the Republic of Korea. At these locations, they learned about the Republic of Korea’s policies and strategies for managing air pollution, extensive monitoring, analysis, and forecasting of air pollutant sources.

The First Session of the Technical and Training Capacity Building Program in 2024_ROK — *The four EANET trainees during the TNT and EANET Capacity Building Program in Seoul, Osong, and Ulsan (Republic of Korea) in April-May 2024.*

During the second week of May, in Japan, participants visited the National Institute for Environmental Studies (NIES) in Tsukuba City, where they received briefings and lab tours in the Climate Change Research Hall. The trainees were also introduced to the atmospheric chamber and lidar system. They received lectures on the Earth System Division (ESD), and observations of NO2 and greenhouse gases (GHG) using stationary and mobile networks. While at the Asia Center for Air Pollution Research (ACAP) in Niigata, EANET’s Network Centre, participants attended lectures covering a wide array of atmospheric environmental issues, including the ecological impacts of atmospheric deposition and air pollution in Europe, the USA, and Asia. The training also covered methods for monitoring soil, vegetation, inland aquatic environments, and catchment areas. Furthermore, participants learned about quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) activities in EANET, data reporting procedures, the Inter-laboratory Comparison Project, the analysis of EANET monitoring data (including from the Periodic Report on the State of Acid Deposition in East Asia (PRSAD)), and an introduction to emission inventories and air quality modeling. They also received an introduction to Air Quality Monitoring Systems Using Low-Cost Sensors (LCS). Finally, participants visited the EANET Niigata-Maki monitoring site. During this visit, participants had the opportunity to observe wet-only samplers (both weekly and daily), the filter pack system, automatic monitors for SO2, NOx, O3, PM2.5, and PM2.5 components, as well as meteorology monitors. This visit provided participants with hands-on practice using field equipment for air quality monitoring.

The First Session of the Technical and Training Capacity Building Program in 2024_Japan — *The four EANET trainees during the TNT and EANET Capacity Building Program in Niigata, Tsukuba City, and at the Niigata-Maki monitoring station (Japan) in May 2024.*

Enhancing Expertise in the EANET Participating Countries

The training’s feedback survey indicated that all participants found the program in the Republic of Korea and Japan to be highly valuable. It is anticipated that the experience and knowledge gained will be disseminated to colleagues in their respective countries through seminars, lectures, or study meetings, further enhancing expertise in air quality management in the EANET Participating Countries.

The second session of the Technical and Training Capacity Building Program will be held in Japan and the Republic of Korea in September and October 2024.

View more photos of the TNT Capacity Building program session 1 on Flickr.

The Informal Meeting on the Initial Preparation of the Draft Medium Term Plan (2026-2030) for the EANET

Posted on 2024/06/192024/06/21 by Aurélia Lemoine

19 June 2024, Bangkok, Thailand

The Informal Meeting on the Initial Preparation of the Draft Medium Term Plan (2026-2030) for the EANET was held at the United Nations Conference Centre in Bangkok, Thailand, on May 29, 2024, as a side event to the EANET Regional Workshop in 2024. The session brought together around 30 representatives from the 13 Participating Countries, UNEP, the Asia Center for Air Pollution Research (ACAP), and observers, to discuss the future direction of EANET.

Opening Remarks

Dr. Le Ngoc Cau, Deputy Director General of the Viet Nam Institute of Meteorology, Hydrology and Climate Change (IMHEN), welcomed participants. He emphasized the importance of reflecting on the current Medium Term Plan (MTP) and gathering inputs for the upcoming 2026-2030 plan, the need for input on priorities such as resource mobilization and climate change impacts on air quality. Dr. Mushtaq Memon, Regional Coordinator for Chemicals and Pollution Action at the United Nations Environment Programme, Asia Pacific Regional Office highlighted the importance of regional cooperation on air pollution and stressed enhancing the science-policy interface and improving capacity building efforts. Prof. Meng Fan, Deputy Director General at the Asia Center for Air Pollution Research, highlighted potential modifications in EANET’s MTP and objectives, potential future expansions including nitrogen management, climate change, VOC and ozone monitoring, and the importance of new technologies and aligning activities with policy objectives.

Participants at the Informal Meeting on the Initial Preparation of the Draft Medium Term Plan (2026-2030) for the EANET

Participating Countries’ Interventions Highlights

Representatives from the EANET Participating Countries shared a wide range of suggestions and insights for the next Medium Term Plan.

Among these suggestions, participants emphasized the need to improve the evaluation of air quality data to better inform policy decisions. There was a call for strengthening the coordination between various stakeholders, including government agencies and research institutions. Improving the digital infrastructure to support more effective data collection and analysis was also suggested.

Many countries stressed the importance of ongoing capacity building initiatives to enhance the skills and knowledge of professionals involved in air quality monitoring and management, in particular targeting lower income countries. Suggestions included developing more training programs and workshops including at the national and local levels. Additionally, the need for upgrading to new and more effective technologies for monitoring and data analysis was emphasized.

Several representatives pointed out the possibility to integrate climate change considerations into EANET’s activities. This could include assessing the impact of climate change on air quality and acid deposition patterns, while ensuring such activities align with the Instrument and Annex for the EANET.

Increasing public awareness and mobilizing more resources was seen as vital. This includes campaigns to encourage participation in air quality improvement efforts and enhancing communication within national governments and between countries to promote EANET’s initiatives, while also developing strategies to mobilize more resources to support EANET’s activities in the future, through its Project Fund, among others.

Ways Forward

The meeting set the stage for the development of a robust MTP for 2026-2030, focusing on understanding the Participating Countries’ needs and priorities, and enhancing EANET’s capacity to address air pollution and its impacts in Asia. Discussions on the preparation of the MTP for the EANET for 2026-2030 will continue during the Working Group meeting in 2024 (WG2024) to be held on 20 and 21 August 2024, and in EANET meetings next year and submission for approval of Participating Countries in November 2025.

Read the Report of the Meeting (available soon) and discover the meeting’s pictures on Flickr.

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