Air pollution

A continuing environmental problem facing Chiang Mai is the rising air pollution. Air quality in Chiang Mai often remains below recommended standards with fine-particle dust levels reaching twice the standard. [13] The northern center of the Meteorological Department has reported that low-pressure areas from China trap forest-fire smoke. Chiang Mai’s air quality has been steadily deteriorating over the past ten years. [14]. This is, in part, seen in cities that attempt to increase economic growth without considering the environmental impact. The city is often shrouded in smog. Fine-particle dust levels have been tested between 190 micrograms and 243 micrograms per square metre (mpsm). The standard level is 120 mpsm. One of the sources of particulate matter pollution in Chiang Mai is the prevalence of burning in the city, with cremations, or burning off garbage, forest fires or vehicular emissions. Added to that are dusts raised during building and excavations. Chiang Mai’s problems are exacerbated by the fact that the city is located in a natural bowl that results in the same air being recirculated, picking up more particulates every time. The Thailand Pollution Control Department of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment is actively engaged in finding solutions to this hazardous problem.