27 September 2023 – The Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) is proud to announce the launch of two knowledge products supported by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) aimed at supporting the development of better environmental health policy in the ASEAN region.
Developed as part of the 2021-2023 UNEP project, “Strengthening ASEAN Member State Policies with Environmental Health Data on Costs of Inaction and Co-Benefits,” these knowledge products are the result of collaborative efforts involving UNEP, the Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI), Clean Air Asia, the Ministry of Environment of Cambodia, the Bandung Institute of Technology, UNDP, and AIT.
Evidence-based Air Pollution Policymaking in the ASEAN Region: Good Practices, Experiences, and Innovations
This working paper compiles good practices of the use of data tools and data to inform policymaking on air pollution in ASEAN countries. This resource underscores the importance of science-based policy planning. It showcases successful approaches from Cambodia, Philippines, Lao PDR, and Thailand.
ISSUE BRIEF: Air Pollution as a Risk Factor for Non-Communicable Diseases: Lessons from Thailand and the ASEAN Region
Air pollution and Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) pose significant challenges to ASEAN countries. This issue brief highlights the critical link between air pollution and NCDs, emphasizing that air pollution is the third leading cause of NCD-related deaths in the region, following closely behind tobacco smoking and unhealthy diets. It provides a compelling case for integrated, cross-sectoral approaches and stronger investment cases for action, drawing on experiences from Thailand and other ASEAN nations.
AIT’s Associate Professor and Head of Energy, Environment and Climate Change Department Dr. Ekbordin Winijkul, a Principal Investigator of the project, has been instrumental in its success. Dr. Ekbordin emphasized the significance of this report, saying, “This compilation serves as a valuable resource for policymakers, stakeholders, and governments to make informed decisions and drive positive environmental change in the ASEAN region.” He further added, “It is evident that policies to mitigate air pollution offer enormous potential for reducing the NCD burden in our region. Yet, there is still a gap in incorporating air pollution into NCD strategies, despite the overwhelming evidence.”
The AIT Entrepreneurship Center supported editing and layout designing of these knowledge products under the project. These knowledge products are available to download at the following links:
