The Environment Protection Administration (EPA) proposed on Tuesday a future revision to the Emergency Management for Prevention of Air Quality Deterioration. That’s due to recent high levels of PM2.5.
The PM2.5 density in the middle and southern region of Taiwan has frequently exceeded the highest level this autumn. EPA official Shieh Ping-fei said the management plan will add an early warning system, as well as the measurement of PM2.5.
“We have officially included the measurement of fine suspended particulate matters(PM2.5) in our new management plan. We are still in the process of adjusting the threshold by which the plan is initiated. An early warning system is to be added to the plan as well,” said Shieh.
Shieh said a high level of PM pollution is when the Pollution Standards Index (PSI) exceeds 500, or when the PM2.5 density exceeds 350 μg/m3(microgram per cubic meter). In these situations, coal-fired power plants must decrease their output and waste disposal factories must decrease their waste output by 40%. In areas with even worse air pollution, additional measures such as banning of vehicle usage and outside activity may be employed.
The plan also includes new measures for low and intermediate levels of PM2.5 pollution. This includes banning high-emission vehicles, outdoor school activities, and adjustment of factories output. The newly added warning system will broadcast PM levels when it exceeds 54μg/m3, much like the typhoon warning system.
Lastly, the central government will coordinate measures if more than 3 cities or counties simultaneously face severe pollution.