Air quality is an important issue in Singapore, especially during certain times of the year when air pollution levels can spike. The city-state has made significant efforts to improve air quality, but there are still times when the air can be unhealthy to breathe.
Singapore’s Air Quality
Singapore’s air quality is measured using the Pollutant Standards Index (PSI), which ranges from 0 to 500. A reading of 0 to 50 is considered good, 51 to 100 is moderate, and anything above 100 is unhealthy. During the haze season, which typically occurs between June and October, the PSI can soar to hazardous levels due to forest fires in neighboring Indonesia.
In addition to the haze season, air pollution can also be a problem during periods of dry weather or when there are high levels of vehicle emissions. For example, in December 2021, the PSI reached unhealthy levels due to the accumulation of particulate matter in the air.
Protect Your Health
To protect your health during times of high pollution, it is recommended that you limit your time outdoors and avoid strenuous activities. It is also important to keep doors and windows closed, and to use air purifiers indoors. If you must go outside, wear a mask to filter out pollutants.
It’s crucial to take air quality seriously because exposure to air pollution can have serious health consequences. It can aggravate asthma and other respiratory conditions, and it has been linked to heart disease, stroke, and cancer.
Measures to Improve Air Quality
The Singapore government has implemented measures to improve air quality, including stricter regulations on vehicle emissions and industrial pollution. But there is still more that can be done. Individuals can do their part by reducing their own carbon footprint through actions like taking public transportation or reducing energy use at home.
Air quality is an important issue in Singapore that can impact our health and well-being. By staying informed about pollution levels and taking steps to protect ourselves during periods of high pollution, we can all help ensure that the air we breathe is as clean as possible.
Also learn about Singapore’s Sustainability Efforts: Green Spaces and Eco-Friendly Innovations and Why Cars Are Not Popular in Singapore: Understanding the Economic, Environmental, and Urban Factors.
