Evaluating vehicle emissions and their impacts on air quality and health in Bangkok, Thailand
File(s)
Author(s)
Sukitpaneenit, Manlika
Type
Thesis
Abstract
With rapid urbanisation in Bangkok, Thailand, vehicle emissions significantly exacerbate air pollution and negatively impact public health. This thesis examines the effects of vehicle emissions, focusing on pollutant quantification, spatial distribution, and health risks, particularly among vulnerable groups like school children. Using GPS data from taxis, the study predicts hourly traffic flow and vehicle emissions on Bangkok’s road network. The COPERT model estimates emissions of PM2.5, NOx, CO, NMVOCs, and CH4, including tyre and brake wear PM2.5. Diesel vehicles are major contributors, responsible for 98% of exhaust PM2.5 and 76% of NOx emissions, while passenger cars account for 50% of non-exhaust PM2.5 emissions.
To assess health impacts, a land use regression (LUR) model predicts annual average ambient PM2.5 concentrations, showing traffic variables, particularly average speed, as significant factors. A health impact assessment using the Global Exposure Mortality Model (GEMM) links 7,719 non-accidental deaths in 2019 to PM2.5 exposure. Adhering to WHO guidelines of 5 µg/m3 could potentially reduce these deaths by 63%. The study also investigates the respiratory health of school children exposed to PM2.5.
Monitoring in primary schools near roads reveals that indoor and outdoor PM2.5 levels often exceed WHO guidelines. Factors such as school location, obesity, and proximity to main roads are significantly associated with respiratory symptoms. Increased PM2.5 concentrations are linked to allergic rhinitis (OR = 1.14; 95% CI: 1.01, 1.30). This thesis highlights the urgent need for Bangkok to address vehicle emissions and implement stringent air pollution control strategies, particularly in schools, to protect public health.
To assess health impacts, a land use regression (LUR) model predicts annual average ambient PM2.5 concentrations, showing traffic variables, particularly average speed, as significant factors. A health impact assessment using the Global Exposure Mortality Model (GEMM) links 7,719 non-accidental deaths in 2019 to PM2.5 exposure. Adhering to WHO guidelines of 5 µg/m3 could potentially reduce these deaths by 63%. The study also investigates the respiratory health of school children exposed to PM2.5.
Monitoring in primary schools near roads reveals that indoor and outdoor PM2.5 levels often exceed WHO guidelines. Factors such as school location, obesity, and proximity to main roads are significantly associated with respiratory symptoms. Increased PM2.5 concentrations are linked to allergic rhinitis (OR = 1.14; 95% CI: 1.01, 1.30). This thesis highlights the urgent need for Bangkok to address vehicle emissions and implement stringent air pollution control strategies, particularly in schools, to protect public health.
Version
Open Access
Date Issued
2023-09-29
Date Awarded
2024-06-01
Copyright Statement
Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International Licence (CC BY-NC)
License URL
Advisor
Stettler, Marc E J
Publisher Department
Civil and Environmental Engineering
Publisher Institution
Imperial College London
Qualification Level
Doctoral
Qualification Name
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)