Anyone who’s stepped outside the past few days can tell you, “the Haze” is back. We’ve got all you need to know about what is happening and how to protect you and your family.
According to the Straits Time article "Air Quality May Turn 'Unheathly' as Haze Returns," the National Environmental Agency reports 120 hot spots detected in Sumatra, Indonesia (this week) with visible smoke plumes from some of the areas. “[The NEA] added that the 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI), which indicates the air quality, is expected to be in the high end of the moderate range of 51 to 100, and may even enter the low end of the unhealthy range.” Feng Zengkun, 21 August 2014.
Even if you have no understanding of PSI readings, you only have to look outside to know this is not good.
What is going on?
Logging and burning of forests to clear land for cultivation is a practice as old as farming. Deforestation in Indonesia began to take off in the 1970s as they saw a dramatic economic benefit in developing industries and they haven’t looked back. Since that time, deforestation of Indonesia has steadily increased.
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| Open Burning in Sumatera, Indonesia |
Known as “slash and burn,” this agricultural technique is cheap, effective, quick and disastrous for the environment. While slash and burn clearance is illegal, many blame corruption and bribery between the Indonesian government and large corporations who operate there for this persistent problem. The fires and consequent haze only seem to be increasing in both frequency and intensity.
The fires can be particularly bad during the dry season and when winds blow from the South-West.
What is being done about it?
In September 2014, Indonesia’s parliament ratified the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution (which had been signed in 2002!). Under the agreement, companies are liable to pay hefty fines if they are found causing unhealthy levels of haze. For example, for each day of unhealthy haze, a company can be fined 80,000 USD. The maximum penalty is capped at 1.6 million USD.
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| A heavy fine has been introduce to stop open burning |
However as with any multi-national agreement, implementing and enforcing the fines can be difficult and complicated. Indonesia ratified the agreement with the express understanding there sovereignty would remain unchallenged. Therefore, it is difficult for Malaysia (or any other ASEAN nation) to step in and “police” the affairs of corporations and the Indonesian government. Because Malaysia such a large economic powerhouse in the region, some companies may be responsive to pressure from Malaysia to curb haze pollution especially if the corporations also operate in Malaysia. In order for to investigate, it must have cooperation from the Indonesia government. As the issue of haze only worsens, hopefully the two nations will see the mutual benefits of increased cooperation.
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| Couple in Muar wearing mask during wedding |
Malaysia has also been working closely with the Indonesian government to try to control and monitor the haze. Additionally, Singapore has recognized the need to move beyond “monitoring” and has been working with farmers to help them develop more sustainable and environmentally friendly farming practices.
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| Even the guest have to wear mask |
Indonesia’s disaster mitigation agency “has deployed three aircraft to do cloud seedings and six helicopters for water bombing in Riau. Cloud seeding in Riau has also been carried out since June 22 and more than 100,000kg of chemicals have been used to induce rain” (Feng Zengkun, The Straits Times).
Cloud seeding, a controversial practice with both critiques and supporters, only adds another layer of complexity to the haze issue. While it does provide a short term fix for the haze, as all governments continue to seek ways to combat, control and contain, environmental problems, cloud seeding practices are likely (hopefully) going to be monitored and adjusted carefully.
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| Cloud seeding to make rain |
What can I do?
- Don’t panic but be smart. Limit your time outdoors.
- Keep windows shut and if you have an air purifier, keep it on and check to make sure your filters are new and working properly.
- If you don’t have an air purifier, keep the air con on. It can help filter some dust (though not as well as an air purifier). And, if you are particularly worried about long term air pollution and environmental hazards, you may be opposed to keeping it running.
- Do not exercise outdoors.
- Haze can be particularly irritating for elderly, children, pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems.
- Drink more water. Water is the best way to rid your body of toxins.
- Build up your immunity with foods rich in vitamins and minerals.
- If you cannot avoid long term exposure outdoors, wear a mask to cover your nose and mouth.
- Educate yourself. These issues can’t be left to corporations and governments alone to tackle. The more informed you are, the better you can contribute to creating a healthier planet.
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