Citizen Crusaders: Mobilizing the Masses to Combat Air Pollution

Champions of Clean Air: People Power in the Fight Against Air Pollution

A Global Crisis

Air pollution is a pressing global issue that poses a significant threat to human health. According to the latest report from the Air Quality Life Index (AQLI), air pollution is the greatest global threat to human health. The World Health Organisation (WHO) confirms this, stating that 99% of the world’s population is breathing unhealthy air. The detrimental impact of air pollution on human health cannot be overstated, with diseases such as lung disease, heart disease, strokes, and cancer directly linked to exposure to dirty air. Despite the alarming health risks, governments and the companies responsible for fueling the air pollution crisis have not taken adequate action to address this urgent problem.

The Rise of the People’s Movement

However, amidst this crisis, a global people’s movement has emerged, demanding clean air and advocating for local solutions to combat air pollution. These champions of clean air are leading the way in their communities, inspiring and empowering others to take action. Let us meet some of these individuals and learn from their stories.

Thailand – Involving Indigenous Knowledge

Prue Odochao, a farmer and leader of Ban Samoeng Tai in the Samoeng District of Chiang Mai Province, is fighting against air pollution in Northern Thailand. The region experiences annual haze at hazardous levels, caused by seasonal agricultural burning for animal feed and industrial and motor vehicle pollution in cities. Prue, who belongs to the Pgakenyaw Indigenous group, emphasizes the importance of including Indigenous knowledge in tackling air pollution. Recognizing the cultural traditions of controlled burning practices, which have been passed down through generations, Prue believes that empowering civil society and respecting the diversity of ways of life and cultures is crucial for addressing air pollution issues.

Thailand – Advocating for the People’s Right to Know

Penchom Saetang, the Founding Executive Director of Ecological Alert and Recovery–Thailand (EARTH), has been a vocal advocate for the Pollutant Release and Transfer Register (PRTR) law since 2001. This law aims to inform the public about industrial pollutants that may impact their health. Penchom’s activism began in 1998 when she, along with the community in the Map Ta Phut area, raised concerns about pollution from a nearby coal-powered plant. This led to the detection of harmful compounds in the air, strengthening Penchom’s belief in the people’s right to know what they are exposed to. She emphasizes the need for a collaborative environment where community observations and voices are valued, leading to informed decision-making and positive outcomes for all.

Indonesia – Suing for Clean Air

Jakarta, the capital city of Indonesia, is one of the most polluted cities in the world. A group of 32 Jakarta residents, including Elisa, filed a lawsuit against the Indonesian President Joko Widodo and other government members for their inaction on air pollution and negligence of health risks. Despite a court ruling in favor of the plaintiffs and ordering measures to improve air quality, significant action has yet to be taken. Elisa, an urban development activist, became concerned about air pollution after experiencing its detrimental effects on her health and the health of her children. She believes that the role of the government is vital in implementing pollution control measures to create a better life for future generations.

South Africa – Building Climate Change Resilience

South Africa’s reliance on coal for electricity generation has led to severe air pollution, particularly in the industrialized Highveld region. Thabo Sibeko, a Senior Programs Officer at Earthlife Africa, is committed to building climate change resilience at the grassroots level. He mobilizes young people in his township to address poor waste management through creative recycling and ensures that local communities are well-informed about air pollution and the climate crisis. Thabo believes that access to information and community engagement are essential for sustainable development without compromising the environment.

Malaysia – Putting an End to Transboundary Haze

Haze pollution has become a recurring issue in Malaysia due to peatland destruction and slash and burn agricultural practices. Dr. Helena Varkkey, an educator and researcher on environmental politics and governance, has been leading efforts to tackle haze pollution. She emphasizes the need to recognize the basic human right to clean, haze-free air and calls for greater awareness and active participation in advocating for clean air. Dr. Varkkey’s personal experience, with her son being hospitalized due to respiratory problems during a severe haze period, further motivates her commitment to this cause.

Democratic Republic of Congo – Informing the Community

In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), poor air quality has led to health ailments, particularly affecting women, children, and the elderly. Philemon Nzanzu Mulimirwa, an active youth activist, works tirelessly to raise awareness within his community about the importance of clean air. By mobilizing and collaborating with other NGOs, he puts pressure on political decision-makers to take action against air pollution. Philemon highlights the importance of civil participation and collective efforts in addressing air pollution, as it affects everyone without distinction.

The Power of Community Action

These community heroes’ stories demonstrate the power of people coming together to fight air pollution. Their efforts highlight the importance of grassroots movements, citizen engagement, and the inclusion of diverse perspectives in finding solutions. While individual actions, such as changing lifestyles to reduce personal pollution footprints, are valuable, the role of governments and companies cannot be underestimated. Strong policies, enforcement of regulations, and investment in sustainable alternatives are essential for significant progress in pollution control.

Towards a Cleaner Future

Air pollution is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach. The stories of these champions of clean air serve as an inspiration for individuals and communities worldwide to take action and demand change. It is crucial for governments and businesses to prioritize the health and well-being of their citizens and understand that clean air is a fundamental human right. The fight against air pollution requires collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to sustainable development. By working together, we can create a cleaner and healthier future for generations to come.

Tan Lee Kuen is a communications coordinator with Greenpeace East Asia.

AirPollution–airpollution,citizenactivism,environmentalawareness,communitymobilization,cleanair,publichealth,environmentalprotection,grassrootsmovement,pollutioncontrol,citizenengagement