Fires, Haze and Acid Rain: The Social and Political Framework of Air Pollution in ASEAN and Asia

Abstract

Among the largest environmental challenges facing Asia are the recurring Indonesian fires and resulting smoke haze pollution, and the acid rain phenomenon in North East Asia. In 1997-98, the fires affected an estimated 20 to 70 million people in five countries in the region. Major sectors of the economy and the safety of air and sea travel were also impacted, with over US$20 billion in losses. The fires are influenced by climatic conditions and the El Nino phenomenon. However, the primary causes are illegal acts, human activity for short-term economic gain, and development policies that are unsustainable. The laws and administration of the country at the centre of the fires, Indonesia, are unable to effectively address the issues. The regional institution, ASEAN, has made efforts to bring governments together and develop specific action plans on the fires. These however have not proven to date to be effective.