Air pollution is becoming a prominent social problem in fast-growing Asian economies. Taking the Bangkok Metropolitan Region (BMR) as a case, we conducted an observational study of fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) and acid deposition, consisting of their continuous monitoring at two sites. To find the major contributing sources of PM_2.5, the PM composition data were analyzed by a receptor modeling approach while the pollution load from BMR sources to the air was characterized by an emission inventory. Our data show generally alarming levels of PM_2.5 in the region, of which transportation and biomass burning are two major sources. In this paper, we present a general overview of our observational findings, contrast the scientific information with the policy context of air quality management in BMR, and discuss policy implications. In BMR, where a set of conventional regulatory instruments on air quality management are already in place, a solution for the air pollution problem should lie in a combination of air quality regulation and other policies, such as energy and agricultural policies.

This study aimed to estimate and compare the spatial-temporal variation in health impact attributable to PM_2.5, including the major particulate constituents and anthropogenic emission sectors of PM_2.5, and ozone in the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei (BTH) region using monitoring data from 2013 to 2020. The liquid phase reaction may play an important role in PM_2.5 formation in winter. We estimated that 110,613 [(95% CI): 91,913, 128,615] and 9921 (95% CI: 3325, 13,191) cases of all-cause mortality in 2020 were attributable to exposure to PM_2.5 and ozone in the BTH region, respectively. The control of PM_2.5 pollution is currently a priority over that of ozone. An appropriate co-control policy for PM_2.5 and ozone pollution is necessary for the surrounding areas of Beijing City to protect public health. From 2013 to 2020, the mortality owing to exposure to PM_2.5 dropped significantly. The reduction in carbonaceous components in PM_2.5 can have the most effective health benefits. The top two contributing emission sectors to the mortality from PM_2.5 in Beijing were regional transportation and vehicles which could explain approximately 6.5% and 5.1% of the total mortality, respectively. The mortality owing to PM_2.5 was higher in Beijing than in Tokyo and Bangkok in East Asia.