The 12th Better Air Quality Conference (BAQ 2026), held in Bangkok, Thailand from 11–13 March 2026, brought together more than 1,000 participants from over 50 countries under the theme “Together for Clear Skies: Driving Action, Accelerating Investment.” The conference highlighted the urgent need to accelerate implementation of clean air solutions through stronger governance, financing, and regional cooperation.
Mobilizing the Clean Air Community in Asia and the Pacific
Discussions throughout the conference emphasized that the challenge is no longer identifying solutions but ensuring their effective delivery at scale. Key themes included strengthening city-level implementation, mobilizing finance for clean air projects, reducing short-lived climate pollutants, and promoting integrated approaches linking air quality, climate, health, and sustainable development.
The conference highlighted the growing shift from pilot projects toward large-scale implementation supported by stronger governance systems, investment-ready project pipelines, and coordinated regional action. BAQ 2026 also showcased emerging initiatives, including airshed management approaches, investment matchmaking platforms, and technical tools supporting implementation across sectors.
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Strengthening Regional Partnerships through South-South Cooperation
Regional cooperation was at the center of the plenary session “Forging South-South Partnerships and Accelerating Collective Action on Air Pollution,” co-organized by ESCAP and UNEP. The session underscored the importance of coordinated regional responses to transboundary air pollution and highlighted mechanisms supporting collaboration across Asia and the Pacific.
EANET was recognized during the plenary as one of the regional cooperation mechanisms supporting harmonized monitoring, open data sharing, technical exchange, and policy support to improve air quality and health across the region. Alongside other regional platforms, EANET contributes to strengthening science-based cooperation and collective action on air pollution. Prof. Sarawut Thepanondh, Associate Professor and Dean, Faculty of Public Health, Mahidol University and Thailand’s Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC) Member for the EANET contributed to the Panel discussion: “Regional and multistakeholder cooperation for clean air”.
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Prof. Sarawut speaking during the plenary panel on 13 March 2026 at the United Nations Conference Center in Bangkok, Thailand. Photo credits: Clean Air Asia
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The plenary also emphasized the value of South-South cooperation and knowledge exchange in strengthening institutional capacity, improving air quality monitoring, and accelerating implementation of effective clean air policies across countries and regions.
EANET was also promoted in several other BAQ26 sessions, including during the poster presentation of the Project “Capacity Building on VOCs” presented by the Asia Center for Air Pollution Research (ACAP).
According to the conference report, more than 70% of participants reported establishing new partnerships during BAQ 2026, reflecting growing momentum for collaborative action on air pollution.
As countries across Asia and the Pacific continue to face severe air pollution challenges, BAQ 2026 reinforced the importance of sustained cooperation, investment, and science-based policymaking to achieve cleaner air, protect public health, and support resilient development pathways.
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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
Photo credits: cover photo of Yamashita Park, 279 Yamashitachō, Naka Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan, by Yanhao Fang (2025); all other images, all rights reserved to MOEJ.
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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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.
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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.
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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 Instrumentand 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.
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Screenshot of some participants at the WG-MTP2025 online meeting on 10 June 2025
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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.
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.
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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 PM2.5 and 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.
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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.
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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.
A regional orientation session for the Regional Capacity Building Programme on Air Pollution Emissions Inventory kicked off on 8 July 2025, drawing environmental professionals from across the Asia-Pacific region to discuss emission inventories, data systems, and regional collaboration. The session marks the launch of a multi-phase capacity-building regional programme aimed at strengthening national air quality management and is jointly organized by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the Asia-Pacific Clean Air Partnership (APCAP), the Ministry of Environment of the Republic of Korea, and the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), in partnership with EANET.
UNEP, with support from the Ministry of Environment of the Republic of Korea and in partnership with AIT, is leading this initiative. The programme offers a structured curriculum combining theoretical learning, case studies, practical assignments, group work, interactive sessions, field-based exercises, and site visits. Training will take place from June to September 2025, including online sessions in July and an in-person component at the AIT campus in Bangkok, Thailand, in September. More details on the curriculum and selection criteria are available in the programme’s Concept Note.
This regional programme is generously supported by the Ministry of Environment of the Republic of Korea as part of EANET Project Activity 2025-06, titled “Development of methodology and guidelines for national emission inventory and capacity building program for Southeast Asia.” This activity, approved at the Twenty-Sixth Session of the EANET Intergovernmental Meeting (IG26), contributes significantly to EANET’s regional collaboration and technical capacity-building efforts.
In her opening remarks, Ms. Shin Bong-Ju, Deputy Director of the Air Quality Division at the Ministry of Environment of the Republic of Korea, emphasized the importance of emission inventories as the foundation for effective air quality management. She shared the vision behind the programme and encouraged stronger cooperation across borders to combat air pollution.
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Programme Structure and Curriculum
The session featured a detailed overview of the training programme, presented by Ms. Kaye Patdu, Programme Management Officer – APCAP at UNEP, and Interim Coordinator for EANET Secretariat, and Dr. Ekbordin Winijkul, Associate Professor at AIT. The programme consists of three phases:
Orientation Session (completed on 8 July 2025)
Online Training Workshops on 17, 24, and 31 July 2025
In-Person Workshop from 9–12 September 2025 at AIT in Pathum Thani, Thailand.
The curriculum includes six modules, beginning with an introduction to emissions inventory, followed by data collection and management. It then covers sectoral emission estimation, quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC), and the use of tools for inventory development. The final module focuses on reporting and the application of emission inventories in policymaking.
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Engaged and Diverse Participation
The orientation session welcomed 30 participants from across the Asia-Pacific region, including representatives from: Bangladesh, Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Mongolia, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Viet Nam.
Participants—many of whom are actively engaged in EANET activities—shared their backgrounds, goals, and expectations. They expressed a strong interest in learning new tools and methodologies to support evidence-based policymaking and improve national emission inventory systems.
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Screenshot from some participants at the orientation session on 8 July 2025.
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Closing and Next Steps
Ms. Ji Hyun Lee, Senior Programme Management Officer at UNEP, delivered the closing remarks. She encouraged participants to stay actively engaged and reiterated the importance of sustained regional collaboration. She also expressed appreciation to the Ministry of Environment of the Republic of Korea for their generous support.
This training series directly supports EANET’s core mission to enhance cooperation, harmonize air quality data, and build capacity among Participating Countries to address atmospheric deposition and related air pollution challenges.
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.
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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.
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Participants at the Informal Meeting on the Initial Preparation of the Draft Medium Term Plan (2026-2030) for the EANET
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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.
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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.
Focused on unlocking and future-proofing air quality management in Asia, the regional multi-stakeholder consultation workshop was held in Bangkok, Thailand, on May 27 and 28 2024. Co-organized by UNEP, ESCAP, and EANET, it aimed to improve multilateral and international cooperation on air pollution, drawing 212 participants from 32 countries, including representatives from academia, government, youth groups, NGOs, the private sector, and UN agencies.
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Opening Session
Ms. Maria Cristina Zucca, Head of the Pollution and Health Unit at UNEPopened the workshop. She stressed the health risks of air pollution, causing 6.5 million deaths annually, mainly in Asia-Pacific. She urged for robust action and multilateral cooperation, citing the UNEA-6 resolution on promoting regional cooperation on air pollution. Dr. Sangmin Nam, Director of the Environment and Development Division at ESCAP, highlighted the public health impact in Asia-Pacific and emphasized the importance of regional technical cooperation through RAPAP. Dr. Le Ngoc Cau, Deputy Director General of the Viet Nam Institute of Meteorology, Hydrology, and Climate Change, and Chair of the Bureau of the 25th Intergovernmental EANET Meeting emphasized the significance of EANET and called for continued regional cooperation to advance air quality management, including monitoring additional pollutants.
Transitioning to future-oriented strategies, Dr. Andrea Hinwood, Chief Scientist at UNEP, delivered a keynote presentation on the importance of horizon scanning and strategic foresight in air quality management. She stressed the interconnectedness of air pollution, climate change, and biodiversity, and how these factors collectively impact public health and the environment.
Several strategies were proposed to effectively address air pollution. Firstly, the implementation of WHO guidelines on air pollution was advocated, with aims to save lives, disseminate knowledge, establish standards, promote dialogue, and contribute to climate action. Secondly, leveraging both Low-Cost Sensors and satellite data was suggested to bridge gaps in atmospheric monitoring. This approach could support existing monitoring networks and prioritize early warning systems for events such as Dust and Sand Storms (DSS) wildfires, and overall air quality. Thirdly, enhancing air pollution monitoring using satellite data was recommended, with a comprehensive approach that included mapping, monitoring, modeling, and measuring. Additionally, integrating data from various spheres such as the atmosphere, lithosphere, biosphere, and hydrosphere was proposed to gain a better understanding of air pollution dynamics. Collaboration with international organizations was also encouraged. Finally, recognizing clean air as a fundamental human right was emphasized. Prioritizing data collection on areas and populations most affected by air pollution was deemed essential for targeted interventions and policy formulation.
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Panel Discussion on Understanding the Transboundary Haze Issue
Key actions were emphasized in addressing haze pollution. Collaboration among ASEAN countries was deemed crucial to address transboundary haze pollution, with a focus on implementing regional initiatives such as the ASEAN Haze-Free Roadmap. Engagement of various stakeholders beyond traditional forestry sectors, including agriculture and biodiversity sectors, was seen as necessary to address land-clearing practices. Developing robust warning systems like the WMO’s Vegetation Fire and Smoke Pollution Warning Advisory and Assessment System was considered vital, alongside enforcing national laws and fostering regional cooperation to combat haze pollution effectively. Prioritizing sustainable land and forest management, particularly in regions like the Mekong countries, was highlighted as essential to prevent large-scale fires. Providing financial support for projects addressing air quality management and ensuring scientific findings translated into actionable solutions through community engagement and implementation-focused initiatives were both emphasized.
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Unlocking Finance for Clean Air in Cities
The session on unlocking financial resources for clean air initiatives brought together experts from various organizations including UNEP, the Clean Air Fund, representatives from the governments of the Republic of Korea, Japan, and Mongolia, the World Bank, and the Massive Earth Foundation.
National governments were advised to establish robust legal and policy frameworks and secure long-term funding for air quality initiatives. Government support, societal investment in environmental efforts, substantial funding mechanisms, and private sector involvement were deemed crucial. Learning from examples such as Mongolia, considering the environmental impact of small businesses, and raising awareness through NGOs was recommended. Regional cooperation, international funding channels, and domestic commitments to funding air quality projects were seen as essential. Climate action presented opportunities for industrial innovation. Reforming vehicle tax systems to prioritize mileage and emissions over vehicle type, inspired by successful reforms in Europe, could fund clean air initiatives.
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A Global Knowledge Platform on Air Quality
Juliette Laurent from the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC) emphasized the importance of assessment, political support, and future planning for air quality management, introducing the CCAC’s Air Quality Management Exchange (AQMx) initiative.
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Future Challenges and Solutions in Air Quality Management
The final session of the workshop addressed future challenges and potential solutions in air quality management. Experts from UNEP, the governments of Japan, the Republic of Korea and Thailand, and ESCAP, participated in this session.
The discussions emphasized regional and subregional bodies, as well as financing institutions, to develop and implement regional solutions and cooperate on setting goals for air quality improvement, as outlined in UNEA Resolution 6/10. Panelists underscored the need for essential resource mobilization and tailored regional solutions to achieve significant air quality improvements. Strengthening international and regional collaboration through platforms such as RAPAP, EANET, and the Asia Pacific Clean Air Partnership (APCAP) was recommended, focusing on knowledge sharing, capacity building, and joint research projects. It was also suggested to promote greater regional coherence and harmonization towards cleaner air, leveraging cooperative channels, and addressing regional ozone pollution. Prioritizing technology and innovation, improving data accuracy for public communication, and fostering international and regional cooperation were highlighted as essential for effectively combating air pollution. Leveraging geospatial data, ground-based sensors, digital technology, AI, promoting sustainable agriculture practices, and fostering cross-border collaboration were also recommended strategies.
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RAPAP as a Collective Action Programme
The sessions on 28 May focused on the Regional Action Programme on Air Pollution (RAPAP) which was adopted by ESCAP member States at the 7th Committee on Environment and Development in 2022, and subsequently endorsed by ESCAP resolution (79/6). RAPAP provides a framework or reference for national, subregional, multilateral, and multistakeholder mechanisms to advance their cooperation agenda for clean air in the Asia Pacific region. The sessions aimed at exchanging information and updates on initiatives supporting regional clean air cooperation, identifying focus areas, and recommending actions to enhance collaboration and stakeholder contributions.
Experts from UN agencies, Development agencies, Foundations, the ASEAN, NGOs, research institutes, and Asian governments discussed opportunities for technical cooperation involving identifying training needs, sharing best practices, and promoting partnerships to tackle air pollution. Recommendations for accelerating regional cooperation were discussed, including developing coordinated strategies, enhancing air quality monitoring and technical assistance, and improving communication and stakeholder engagement.
The Secretariat for the Acid Deposition Monitoring Network in East Asia (EANET) and the Asian Institute of Technology – Regional Resource Centre for Asia and the Pacific (AIT RRC.AP), organized the kick-off meeting of the project “Stocktaking and Methodological Assessment of Emissions Inventories and Source Apportionment of Air Pollution in Southeast Asia” on 26 March 2024 in Bangkok, Thailand. The objective of the meeting was to better understand the emissions inventories and source apportionment situation in the countries of Southeast Asia and discuss with project partners and experts the framework for metadata analysis and project ideas on emission inventories and source apportionment studies in the region.
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Opening Session
Representatives from the National Air Emission Inventory and Research Center (NAIR) in Korea, the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in the Philippines, the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA), the Centre Interprofessionnel Technique d’Etudes de la Pollution Atmosphérique (CITEPA), the Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI), Clean Air Asia (CAA), the Bandung Institute of Technology in Indonesia, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, the Asia Center For Air Pollution Research (ACAP), the Regional Resource Center For Asia and the Pacific (RRC.AP), the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) in Thailand, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and the EANET Secretariat attended the meeting with a total of 28 participants.
Dr. Mushtaq Memon from UNEP opened the meeting, and, in his remarks, he stressed the importance of regional mechanisms like EANET for addressing air pollution. He highlighted the need for emission inventories, supportive policies, air quality standards, stakeholder engagement, and public awareness.
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Expert Insights from the EANET Participating Countries and Non-governmental Organizations
Experts from the EANET region and Europe presented use cases on emission inventories and source apportionment in different settings.
Dr. Ekbordin Winijkul from AIT discussed Thailand’s emission inventory experience, emphasizing an integrated approach to air quality management, and outlining the plans for the Thailand National Emission Inventory project. Dr. Jongmin Joo from NAIR introduced the Clean Air Policy Support System (CAPSS) and the Republic of Korea’s National Emissions and Air Quality Assessment System (NEAS), detailing their methodologies and their integration into policymaking and governmental acknowledgment. Mr. Jundy del Socorro from EMB, Philippines, discussed emission inventory development, highlighting methodologies and regional contributions to air pollutants, as well as introducing the Philippines’ Integrated Information System (IIS) for data coordination.
Dr. Zbigniew Klimont from IIASA presented the Greenhouse Gas Air Pollution Interactions and Synergies (GAINS) model, emphasizing its use in assessing emission control strategies’ cost-effectiveness and showcasing case studies in Asia. Dr. Sophie Moukhtar from CITEPA discussed emissions inventories under the Convention on Long-Range Transboundary Air Pollution (CLRTAP), emphasizing their importance and reporting obligations. Dr. Chris Malley from SEI presented the Long-range Energy Alternatives Planning Integrated Benefits Calculator (LEAP-IBC) for integrated air pollution and climate change mitigation assessment, while Mr. Enrique Mikhael Cosep from CAA discussed emission inventories and source apportionment challenges in Asia.
Dr. Jun-ichi Kurokawa from ACAP presented the EANET’s activities related to emission inventories and source apportionment, highlighting ongoing projects.
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Project Discussion
The project kick-off meeting continued with discussions among participants on how to develop a relevant framework for metadata analysis of the studies in Southeast Asia.
Dr. Ram Lal Verma from AIT RRC.AP provided an initial review of existing emission inventories in Southeast Asian countries, highlighting available research studies and developed inventories in several countries in the region. Dr. Nguyen Thi Kim Oanh from AIT discussed the meta-analysis of emission inventory and source apportionment databases in Southeast Asia, proposing a framework and sharing database templates.
Participants expressed insights on follow-up activities and projects of EANET, emphasizing the need to avoid duplication of work and standardize frameworks for emission inventories and source apportionment methodologies. It was agreed that government involvement is crucial for data collection and quality assurance when developing emission inventories. Participants stressed the necessity of regional mechanisms to harmonize emission inventories’ methodologies and processes.
Source apportionment studies were noted as important but lacking in ASEAN countries, requiring capacity building and resources. Volatile Organic Compound speciation and Greenhouse gas emissions’ emission inventories processes were suggested for inclusion in the meta-analysis. Finally, lessons from the European Union’s common frameworks for emission inventories were discussed as an important model to consider for the ASEAN region.
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The next meeting of the project will be held on 29 May in Bangkok, Thailand, back to back with the EANET Regional Awareness Workshop.
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The project Stocktaking and Methodological Assessment of Emissions Inventories and Source Apportionment of Air Pollution in Southeast Asia is being conducted with the support of the EANET Project Fund.
