Southeast Asia's Transboundary Pollution Problem - History from 2001 to the 2020s

Southeast Asia's Transboundary Pollution Problem - History from 2001 to the 2020s

**2001: The Emergence of the Problem**
In 2001, large-scale forest fires in Indonesia's Sumatra and Kalimantan islands resulted in thick haze spreading to neighboring countries such as Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand, bringing the issue of transboundary pollution to light. The main causes were slash-and-burn farming and illegal logging, highlighting the challenges of forest conservation within Indonesia. This haze led to flight delays and a decrease in tourist numbers in Kuala Lumpur, causing economic losses estimated in the millions of dollars. In Singapore, PM10 levels exceeded the standard fivefold, causing significant health impacts on residents.

In response, ASEAN nations adopted the "ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution," which aimed to promote information sharing, fire prevention measures, and stricter law enforcement among member countries. Indonesia introduced satellite monitoring systems and tightened regulations on slash-and-burn farming as part of specific countermeasures.

**2010s: Strengthening Collaborative Efforts**
In the 2010s, interest in addressing transboundary pollution grew, and regional collaboration advanced. The Indonesian government intensified measures against illegal logging and set a goal to reduce forest fire areas on Sumatra and Kalimantan islands by 30% annually. However, Malaysia and Singapore continued to report health damages from haze, with economic losses estimated to exceed 1 billion dollars annually.

ASEAN nations enhanced the effectiveness of the agreement by jointly funding expanded monitoring systems and fire suppression programs. Public awareness campaigns were also launched in various countries to improve environmental consciousness and deepen cooperation to reduce transboundary pollution.

**2020s: Sustainable Efforts and Challenges**
In the 2020s, forest fires on Indonesia's Sumatra and Kalimantan islands remain the primary cause of transboundary pollution. In 2021, over 100,000 hectares of forests were lost to fires on Sumatra, and the haze spread to Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand. Singapore's Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) exceeded 300, classified as "very unhealthy," impacting residents' daily lives.

In Indonesia, companies like Asia Pulp & Paper (APP) and Wilmar International have strengthened forest protection programs and advanced fire prevention measures. Meanwhile, Japanese company Hitachi has contributed by providing AI-powered haze monitoring systems, enabling early detection and response to pollution.

**Economic and Social Impacts**
Transboundary pollution has also severely affected regional economies. In Bangkok, Thailand, tourist numbers decreased by 20% compared to the previous year, while flight delays exceeded 30% on Langkawi Island. In Johor, Malaysia, schools were temporarily closed, and approximately 500,000 residents reported respiratory illnesses. Regional economic losses due to haze are estimated at 1.6 billion dollars annually.

**Conclusion and Outlook**
From 2001 to the 2020s, efforts to tackle Southeast Asia's transboundary pollution problem have made progress, but challenges remain. ASEAN has set a long-term goal of eradicating haze by 2050, promoting stronger regulations and sustainable corporate practices. Raising public awareness and investing resources are crucial to achieving sustainable solutions.