Malé Declaration: Strengthening Regional Framework on Air Pollution Reduction - The Need for a Regional Legally Binding Instrument

Malé Declaration: Strengthening Regional Framework on Air Pollution Reduction - The Need for a Regional Legally Binding Instrument

Partner: UNEP-ROAP

Year: 2011

Locale: South Asia

Team Members: Dr. Mahmood A. Khwaja

Introduction: The Malé Declaration stated the need for countries to carry forward, or initiate, studies and programs on air pollution in the member states Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Iran, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. On the request of United Nations Environment Program the regional office for Asia Pacific (UNEP-ROAP to provide technical support, a feasibility study has been conducted on the “Malé Declaration on Control and Prevention of Air Pollution and its likely Trans-boundary Effects for South Asia” to discuss the socioeconomic situation of South Asia, the existing situation of air pollution in the countries and region and the responses of countries to air pollution. In light of the analysis of gaps and weaknesses of Male declaration, socio-economic status, air pollutants levels and existing legislation, institutions and initiatives and arrangement for control, a regional legally binding instrument among Male declaration member states, for strengthening the framework for air pollution reduction, has been strongly recommended. (Feasibility study report under review process at UNEP-ROAP)