Environment: Benghazi’s air quality during September “moderate” according to approved indicators – libyaupdate.com

Report on Benghazi’s Air Quality and Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals

1. Key Findings and Public Health Implications (SDG 3)

• The Ministry of Environment reported that the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Benghazi during September was 72, classified as “Moderate.”
• This assessment, aligned with World Health Organization standards, directly impacts **SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being**. While the air quality is generally acceptable, it presents potential health risks to vulnerable populations.
• Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, may experience adverse health effects, highlighting the need for targeted public health measures to ensure well-being for all ages.

2. Urban Environmental Management and Sustainable Cities (SDG 11)

• The continuous monitoring of air quality in Benghazi is a critical action in support of **SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities**, particularly Target 11.6, which aims to reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities.
• Climatic factors, such as moderate temperatures and increased humidity, were noted as influencing variables on the city’s air quality during the reporting period.
• These monitoring efforts are integral to a national plan for creating healthier urban environments by managing sources of pollution and protecting residents from environmental hazards.

3. Governmental Response and Future Commitments (SDG 13 & SDG 17)

1. Continuous Monitoring: The Ministry of Environment affirms its commitment to regular air quality monitoring as a foundational component of its national strategy to improve environmental conditions in Libyan cities.
2. System Development and Awareness: In line with **SDG 13: Climate Action**, the ministry is focused on developing advanced monitoring systems and promoting community awareness to reduce polluting emissions, which are often linked to climate change drivers.
3. Strategic Partnerships: The ministry emphasizes cooperation with relevant authorities, reflecting the principles of **SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals**, to strengthen preventive measures, protect public health, and achieve shared environmental objectives.

Analysis of Sustainable Development Goals in the Article

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • The article directly connects air quality to public health. It mentions that the recorded air quality “may pose some risk to sensitive groups such as individuals with respiratory illnesses, the elderly, and children.” It also highlights that the Ministry of Environment’s monitoring is part of a plan aimed at “strengthening preventive measures to protect public health.”
2. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • The focus of the article is on the air quality within a specific urban area, the “city of Benghazi.” The Ministry’s efforts are part of a “national plan aimed at improving air quality in various Libyan cities” and reducing “sources of polluting emissions, especially in urban areas.” This directly relates to making cities more sustainable and environmentally sound.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being

• Target 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water and soil pollution and contamination.
  • The article’s entire premise is centered on monitoring air pollution and understanding its health risks. The statement that moderate air quality “may pose some risk to sensitive groups such as individuals with respiratory illnesses” and the goal to “protect public health” directly align with the objective of reducing illnesses from air pollution.

SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

• Target 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management.
  • The article explicitly discusses the monitoring of “air quality in the city of Benghazi” and a national plan for “improving air quality in various Libyan cities.” The Ministry’s effort to “promote community awareness about the importance of reducing sources of polluting emissions” is a direct action towards reducing the adverse environmental impact of the city.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

Indicator for Target 3.9

• Implied Indicator 3.9.1: Mortality rate attributed to household and ambient air pollution.
  • While the article does not provide mortality data, it provides the foundational data needed for this indicator: the level of ambient air pollution. The “general Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded in the city was 72” is a direct measurement of air pollution, which is the primary cause of the health risks and potential mortality this indicator tracks. The monitoring itself is a prerequisite for assessing the health impact.

Indicator for Target 11.6

• Mentioned Indicator 11.6.2: Annual mean levels of fine particulate matter (e.g. PM2.5 and PM10) in cities (population weighted).
  • The article explicitly states that “the general Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded in the city was 72,” based on data from “local monitoring stations.” The AQI is a composite measure derived from levels of specific pollutants, including fine particulate matter. Therefore, the AQI value of 72 serves as a direct measurement related to this indicator, reflecting the level of air pollution in the city of Benghazi.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: libyaupdate.com