Monitoring of Air Pollution in Suriname: Dijkveld (Paramaribo) as a test case to inform the development of a national monitoring network

Abstract

Air pollution is a global problem, annually leading to millions of deaths and health problems. In developing countries like Suriname, the crisis is exacerbated by economic growth, lax regulations, and limited resources. Thus, establishment of an effective air quality monitoring network is imperative. This study focused on developing best practices to collect local air pollution evidence using various monitoring methods over an extended period. It was conducted in Dijkveld, a suburban area near an industrial zone in Suriname, where residents had reported air quality issues that previous measurements failed to validate. The primary objective was to assess the effectiveness and efficiency of different air quality measurement methods.
A mixed-method approach was deployed, combining qualitative and quantitative data to comprehensively analyze local air quality. The study commenced with a preparatory phase, assessing environmental and social factors in Dijkveld and formulating an experimental monitoring plan. During the monitoring phase, a combination of fixed and mobile instruments was utilized along with a resident complaint application for reporting pollution incidents. Fixed monitors were installed to measure particulate matter (PM) and volatile organic compounds (VOC), while passive diffusive samplers captured VOC levels. Mobile monitoring assessed PM concentrations. Instrument placement adhered to EU and USEPA siting criteria, with fixed monitors at one selected site and ten scattered sites chosen for near-road VOC testing. Mobile monitoring concentrated in areas with pollution complaints, including Livorno and Houttuin resorts.
The findings revealed that PM measurements from the fixed station consistently met WHO standards, occasionally displaying unexplained peaks. A diurnal pattern indicated higher PM levels at night, attributed to stable nighttime atmospheric conditions. Mobile measurements showed steady PM levels, with peaks associated with traffic and dust. Wind direction significantly affected several PM hotspots, particularly along main roads. A comparison of fixed and mobile PM results showed only minor differences due to location and weather conditions. VOC measurements from the fixed station recorded minimal values, whereas near-road sampling revealed elevated VOC concentrations. The majority of air pollution complaints were linked to odors, with correlations identified between these complaints and VOC levels. No dust related complaints were reported.
The study affirmed that intensive air quality monitoring can detect air pollution standard violations and substantiate people's complaints. However, this is not self-evident due to various factors. Different monitoring methods each have their advantages and limitations. Fixed stations prove effective for establishing extended baseline data, while mobile monitoring offers valuable insights into spatial variation, population exposure, and source attribution. The choice of method depends on specific objectives and target parameters but a hybrid approach is recommended based on the results. This approach unveiled spatial and temporal variations in Dijkveld's air quality, pinpointing hotspots tied to industrial and traffic emissions. It was tailored to the specific environmental and social characteristics of Dijkveld.
Based on the findings, it is recommended to replicate measurements during the dry season and at night for a more comprehensive grasp of Dijkveld's air quality. Additionally, the case of Dijkveld emphasizes the importance of a case-specific approach to air quality networks in order to establish an efficient and effective monitoring network. A thorough assessment of the purpose, the environmental and social factors of the place (location), specific parameters, and participation (4P’s) is essential to gather valid results. Moreover, for Suriname, transitioning to the utilization of Air Quality Indices (AQI) instead of global standards like WHO is advised. AQI simplifies air quality communication to the public, empowering informed decisions regarding outdoor activities and health precautions. This transition also encourages regulatory efforts to enhance air quality standards. The insights from this study hold value not only for Suriname but also for other nations grappling with comparable environmental challenges.

Date of Award	8 Nov 2023
Original language	English
Supervisor	J de Kraker (Examiner) & Frank Van Belleghem (Supervisor)