Participatory Modeling for Air-Quality Policy

Air pollution remains a persistent challenge in Southeast Asia, with major health and environmental impacts across borders. To help address this, the UNDP Bangkok Regional Hub partnered with the Millennium Institute on an initiative to support provincial decision-making in Chiang Rai and Vientiane regions. The project focused on developing a simulation model to analyze policy interventions and strengthen stakeholder engagement. Over two years, the team gathered local data, worked with government agencies, businesses, and civil society through participatory workshops, and explored how different policies could reduce pollution levels.

Christine Wellington-Moore, former Regional Lead Advisor on SDG Integration for UNDP Asia-Pacific, supported the collaboration among institutions involved in the project. In this interview, she reflects on how the participatory modeling approach helped stakeholders discuss assumptions openly, compare perceived versus actual contributors, and better understand how emissions from transport, waste burning, household cooking, industry, and seasonal fires interact over time.

While fires draw attention during peak months, continuous emissions from other sectors contribute more significantly to chronic exposure. The findings indicate that coordinated policies addressing multiple sources—supported by regional cooperation and improved data—offer the most cost-effective path toward cleaner air. The Integrated Policy Analysis and Modelling for the Air Pollution Challenge in Thailand and Laos project illustrates how systems modelling can guide investment priorities, enhance cross-sector coordination, and build a stronger foundation for sustainable air-quality management in the region

Watch the interview to hear Christine Wellington-Moore’s reflections on supporting air-quality policy in Thailand and Laos.