This project is divided into three categories: future air quality control policy planning, particulate matter disaster prevention, and public participation and science popularization activities promotion.
Through air quality monitoring data analysis, geographical condition and environmental load analysis, and systemic scientific research review, this project summed up future direction: First, in addition to current target, fine particulate matter (PM2.5), there is an urge to take action on ozone (O3). Considering the generation mechanism of O3, it is necessary to strengthen control strategy on both volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides (NOx). Second, each region of Taiwan has different characteristics, which are key considerations that must be concerned. Therefore, this project suggested focus on both PM2.5 and O3 in central Taiwan and south Taiwan, and focus on mainly O3 for the rest (north Taiwan and east Taiwan), and has analyzed the main pollution in each region in order to make follow-up suggestions. Third, as air quality continuous improvement to certain degree, there will encounter bottlenecks and uncontrollable restrictions. In the long run, it is appropriate to continue establishing basic research and enhancing public consensus. Continuing previous points, this project has suggested next stage improvement target for PM2.5 and O3. In terms of strategy formulation, this project has proposed short-term, mid-term and long-term strategies for all pollution sources in accordance to precursors and primary pollutant they emit.
In terms of fine particulate matter disaster prevention and protection, this project has proposed the draft for next version of Fine Particulate Matter Disaster Prevention and Protection Operation Plan and other supporting administrative rules based on consolidating domestic and foreign disaster cases, reviewing Regional Disaster Prevention and Protection Plans, and summarizing implementation experiences. The highlights of the draft included adjusting the threshold of setting up central emergency operation center (CEOC), specifying and strengthening the function of CEOC and emergency response teams, and strengthening disaster response measures and protection of the public. Considering the urge of having CEOC members, related ministries and central government’s sectors, familiar to their emergency actions and tasks, this project has established rehearsal scripts and templates, and has conduct Fine Particulate Matter Disaster drills.
To achieve the ultimate goal of improving air quality, it requires not only reinforcing pollution control measurements, but also a gradual change in public habits and customs. This project assisted in the air quality science knowledge competition for high school and college students. In order to promote this competition and air quality issues, promotional videos and images were produced and exposed through social media, and 5 seminars, finals, award ceremony and press conference were held. Moreover, to promote volunteer participation and popularize air quality protection awareness, 2 types of teaching lesson plans and tools were designed for preschool and elementary school students. At the same time, referring to public’s perspective, this project reviewed the blind spots, and shaped policies that are close to public concern.
