What can you do to combat air pollution?

December 8, 2022

On December 6 Ryan Schmedding, a scientific researcher at the US Embassy, conducted a guest lecture organized by the AUCA Center for Environmental Studies and Development, the Alliance of Universities of the Kyrgyz Republic for Green Economy and Sustainable Development (AVZUR) together with the US Embassy in the Kyrgyz Republic.

During the lecture, the researcher explained air pollution basics, the main types of pollution, and how it forms.

“Regarding the research in Bishkek, we found that most of the air pollution here is primarily driven from home heating to a lesser extent the transportation sector. Generally, air pollution is getting worse over the last few years,” -noted Ryan

It was also mentioned that air pollution is a major public health issue, dirty air harms health. The researcher also analyzed the pros and cons of various tools for monitoring air quality, as well as sensor data for Bishkek.

“Things can always change, and it’s hard to say what to expect in the next 10 years. Looking at the last 2 years since the pandemic a lot of things have changed dramatically, nobody expected everyone to stop driving for a year. The thing is that the next 10 years will be critical from the climate change standpoint in terms of what actions we take. I’m personally optimistic that things will improve, there’s been a lot of interest from various groups who are interested in increasing advocacy for air pollution and making people more aware of it. I know The U.S. Embassy has wanted to bring this issue to the floor because it’s making so many people sick. The Ministry of Japan funded the report on the health effects of air pollution on children. There’s a lot of interest from people who want to see the situation improve. Also, there’s a lot of young and motivated people and non-profit sectors who are interested in improving air pollution,” -mentioned Ryan

To make a difference and change the air quality there are small but important things that everyone can do according to experts' opinions.

“Of course, a lot of it depends on your living situation, but if you can get a better heating source for your home, that’s not combustion, whether it is electric or gas that would be great. Also if you can walk instead of driving, or use public transportation. If it’s possible try to turn down the heating to 4-5 degrees, that would make a difference,” -shared Ryan

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