‘Depts should unite in fight against pollution’

Hindustan Times spoke to Australian scientist and climate strategist, Dr Anthony Horton, an international authority on environmental protection and climate change. Dr Horton has travelled extensively as a sought-after consultant to government bodies and private enterprises. Anthony is an active environmental analyst providing insights on a range of economic, health and social issues. Three main strategies. First, limiting age of vehicles licenced to use the roads. Compared to older vehicles, more recently manufactured ones are generally made in accordance to a more stringent design standard. Second, improving quality of fuel with stringent fuel quality standards. These standards can target pollutants such as nitrogen oxides and hydrocarbons. Third, introducing alternative fuels, such as liquefied petroleum gas or natural gas. ‘Improvement of Air Quality in Seoul Metropolitan Area’ enforced in 2005. This Act led to recognition that action needed to be taken. Different departments within the government, from transport, industries, textile to science and technology, should have the courage and willingness to reach out and share data with each other, and to discuss initiatives they have implemented that have been successful as well as acknowledge those that perhaps haven’t been so successful. With adequate financial resources, the government should be able to purchase, operate and maintain air quality monitoring equipment that is in accordance with international

standards