Publication

Air quality in Bishkek, assessment of emission sources and road map for supporting air quality management

31 October 2022

The air pollution situation in Bishkek is severe especially during the wintertime heating periods, occurring from October to March. The Air Quality Index of Bishkek city topped the global air quality index (AQI) rankings in recent years during the heating season. Poor air quality is causing serious health effects, among others i.e., increased cases of child asthma and respiratory disease related morbidity increase. Current governmental air quality management tools, such as the air quality monitoring network including modern, real-time, and reliable monitoring stations and online data, modeling studies, and the emissions inventory, in Bishkek city are insufficient in providing reliable air quality data to support decision-making and to inform citizens about air quality. Therefore, there is a need for enhanced air quality management tools/systems, and more detailed analysis of air quality data to support decision making and preparation of clean air action plans.

This study is the first comprehensive analysis of key emission sources and their impact on ground-level air pollution concentrations in Bishkek, thus providing decision-makers for the first time with scientific evidence for policy-making. The study analysed air quality monitoring data (2015-2021), developed and analysed emissions inventories, conducted local-scale dispersion modelling and analysed satellite data. Results of this study, including the Roadmap for Implementation of the Priority Policies and Measures can be used to prioritise air pollution interventions, focusing on what actions will result in the biggest health gains. This study provides an important foundation for other research to build on, opening the door for further understanding Bishkek’s air pollution, its sources and impacts, and how to improve air quality.