DENR: Motor vehicles account for 80% of air pollution in Metro Manila

Summary

Air pollution levels in Metro Manila are dangerously high, with total suspended particulates (TSP) reaching 130 to 250, far exceeding the World Health Organization’s safe standard of 90. This poses serious health risks, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. In response, the Land Transportation Office will start enforcing penalties on vehicles emitting excessive smoke, with fines ranging from 2,000 to 6,000 pesos. The MMDA recently tested vehicles, finding that 99% failed the emissions test. Motorists are being urged to fix their vehicles to avoid future penalties.

Takeaways

• 😀 Air pollution levels in Metro Manila are significantly higher than the World Health Organization's standard, reaching between 130 to 250 total suspended particulates (TSP).
• 😀 The World Health Organization's recommended air pollution limit for TSP is 90, much lower than the current levels in Metro Manila.
• 😀 A study by the Coalition for Clean Air Advocates highlights the severe health risks of the high air pollution, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
• 😀 Air pollution in Metro Manila also contributes to the development of cancer due to the elevated levels of particulate matter.
• 😀 To combat air pollution, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) will begin apprehending motorists whose vehicles emit excessive smoke starting next week.
• 😀 The penalties for smoke-belching vehicles are P2,000 for the first offense, P4,000 for the second offense, and P6,000 for the third offense, along with suspension of vehicle registration.
• 😀 The MMDA's Anti-Smoke Belching Unit conducted a test along Commonwealth Avenue and found that 99% of the vehicles failed the emissions test.
• 😀 Car owners who failed the test were given a few days to repair their vehicles, with a warning that they will be apprehended if they fail again.
• 😀 Law enforcement agencies are working to improve air quality by encouraging vehicle maintenance and reducing emissions.
• 😀 The public is being reminded of the serious health risks associated with the ongoing pollution in the region, urging compliance with regulations to lower pollution levels.

Q & A

What is the current air pollution level in Metro Manila?

The air pollution level in Metro Manila is between 130 to 250 total suspended particulates (TSP), which is considered very high according to the World Health Organization's standard of 90 TSP.

What are the main health risks associated with air pollution in Metro Manila?

Air pollution in Metro Manila is linked to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, as well as cancer, due to the high level of particulates in the air.

Who conducted the study on air pollution levels in Metro Manila?

The study on air pollution levels in Metro Manila was conducted by the Coalition for Cleaning Air Advocates.

What action is being taken to address air pollution in Metro Manila?

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) will begin apprehending vehicles that emit smoke starting next week. Motorists are being reminded to take care of their vehicles to avoid penalties.

What penalties will motorists face for failing the smoke test?

Motorists will face penalties for smoke emission violations as follows: 2,000 pesos for the first offense, 4,000 pesos for the second offense, and 6,000 pesos for the third offense, along with suspension of their vehicle registration.

What is the result of the MMDA's vehicle smoke test along Commonwealth Avenue?

The MMDA's anti-smoke belching unit tested several vehicles along Commonwealth Avenue and found that 99% of them failed the test.

What will happen to car owners who fail the smoke test?

Car owners who fail the smoke test will be given a few days to fix their vehicles. If they do not comply, they will be apprehended and fined.

When will the Land Transportation Office begin apprehending smoke-belching vehicles?

The Land Transportation Office will begin apprehending smoke-belching vehicles starting next week.

How does air pollution in Metro Manila compare to the World Health Organization's standards?

The air pollution levels in Metro Manila, with a range of 130 to 250 TSP, far exceed the World Health Organization's recommended limit of 90 TSP.

Why is it important to address air pollution in Metro Manila?

It is crucial to address air pollution in Metro Manila to protect public health, as exposure to high levels of air pollution can lead to serious health issues, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases and even cancer.