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Vietnam’s Air Pollution Crisis: How IQAir Provides the Solution

Vietnam faces a severe air pollution crisis, ranking as the second most polluted country in ASEAN and 22nd globally. Hanoi, notably, is the eighth most polluted city worldwide. In March, Hanoi had only one day of "moderate" air quality, with 2023's PM2.5 levels averaging nearly six times higher than WHO recommendations.

Air pollution in Vietnam poses severe health risks, similar to smoking, and is linked to respiratory problems, stroke, heart disease, lung cancer, and COPD. It causes around 7 million deaths globally and 70,000 in Vietnam annually, reducing average lifespans by 1.4 years. Vulnerable groups include those with pre-existing health conditions, children, the elderly, outdoor workers, and pregnant women. Indoor air pollution also contributes significantly to health issues.

Economically, air pollution costs Vietnam over $13 billion annually, or 4% of its GDP, by reducing worker productivity, agricultural yields, tourism revenue, and international investment.

The Silver Lining and Solutions

There is a silver lining: tackling air pollution will benefit Vietnam’s health, society, and economy. Cleaner air will contribute to climate mitigation targets, enhance access to clean energy, and improve environmental governance, making cities more livable and sustainable. Health improvements will also boost educational outcomes and labor productivity.

World Environment Day underscores the urgent need for collective action to restore clean air in Vietnam. While individuals can take steps to protect themselves, such measures are often inaccessible to many. Therefore, systemic changes at policy, industrial, and sectoral levels are crucial to tackling pollution at its source.

Key strategies include improving air quality monitoring and public information, protecting vulnerable populations, implementing short-term mitigation measures, accelerating public transport electrification, enhancing waste management, and phasing out fossil fuels.

Technological Solutions: HealthPro® Multi Gas and 250 with AirVisual Pro

To combat this crisis effectively, advanced air purification technologies like the IQAir HealthPro® Multi-Gas and HealthPro® 250, combined with the AirVisual Pro monitoring system, are essential.

HealthPro® Multi-C and HealthPro® 250

These units are renowned for their superior filtration efficiency. The HealthPro® Multi Gas and 250 feature HyperHEPA® filters, which can trap ultrafine particles as small as 0.003 microns, offering comprehensive protection against airborne pollutants, including PM2.5, bacteria, and viruses. Their advanced V5-Cell gas and odor filter also removes harmful chemicals and odors, ensuring cleaner indoor air.

AirVisual Pro

The AirVisual Pro provides real-time air quality monitoring, enabling users to stay informed about the air they breathe. It features a high-accuracy laser sensor that measures PM2.5 levels, temperature, and humidity, and it provides actionable insights via an intuitive app. This system empowers individuals and communities to take proactive measures based on accurate, localized air quality data.

Vietnam's Commitment and the Path Forward

Vietnam has shown commitment to addressing climate change, aiming for zero carbon emissions by 2050 and launching initiatives like the Just Energy Transition Partnership. The UN supports these efforts but emphasizes the need for stronger, more immediate actions.

Effective measures from other countries can guide Vietnam, such as enhanced air quality monitoring, protective measures for vulnerable groups, short-term pollution reduction strategies, public transport electrification, waste management improvements, and transitioning to cleaner energy sources.

Source: Vnexpress - Vietnam's heavy air pollution needs stronger action


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