- The COVID-19 pandemic allowed researchers to examine how lockdowns affected air quality in the Asian Monsoon region, finding significant decreases in air pollutants like particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide during strict lockdowns.
- Satellite data showed a notable reduction in nitrogen dioxide across major cities, alongside reductions in other pollutants, while surface ozone levels increased due to changes in chemical reactions from lower nitrogen oxides.
- Some Asian countries showed positive economic growth during the pandemic despite lockdowns, indicating a possible link between reduced industrial activity and improved air quality, suggesting that emission reductions from traffic can enhance air quality in the region.
* It identifies key research priorities based on a series of workshops, aiming to support authorities in tackling PM pollution and its health impacts through evidence-based strategies.
* The study outlines five specific PM research gaps that can be addressed using these sensors, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, affordability, and stakeholder engagement for successful implementation.