TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Ministry of Environment plans to set up an air quality monitoring center amid concerns over the dangerous levels of air pollution recorded this year.
Power plants were instructed to temporarily scale back operations on Tuesday after air pollution in north Taiwan again reached hazardous levels, per CNA. In the afternoon, a red warning (AQI: 151-200), which indicates unhealthy air quality for all groups was issued for Taipei, New Taipei, Keelung, and Taoyuan.
The proposal submitted to the legislature last week would establish an air quality monitoring center to improve air quality forecasting and target pollution before it reaches extremely high levels. Public concerns heightened after poor air quality on Feb. 25-28 and March 10-12.
The MOENV did not explain the sources of the pollutants. It attributed part of the issue to southeasterly winds trapping pollutants in downwind areas, especially in north and central Taiwan. Photochemical reactions triggered by sunlight in the afternoon also contribute to increased ozone concentrations.
On days with poor air quality, residents are advised to remain indoors where possible, minimize strenuous outdoor activities, and wear masks. When indoors, it is recommended to keep doors and windows closed and run air conditioners or air purifiers.
N95 and KN95 masks filter out a high percentage of airborne particles, including PM2.5 and are recommended for protection against air pollution, according to IQAir. Other mask types, such as cloth or surgical masks, are relatively ineffective in filtering out pollution.
A Taiwan university study this month found that air pollution may affect brain health. It noted that improving air quality can promote cognitive function in older adults, delaying the risk of dementia.
Prolonged exposure to PM2.5 can lead to an increased risk of developing respiratory and heart diseases, severe allergies, and reduced lung function, per the US Environmental Protection Agency. Meanwhile, immediate effects of air pollution can include symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, difficulty breathing, eye, nose, throat, and skin irritation, headaches, and fatigue.
