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Air pollution control in urban zones

Climate change is making air quality worse, especially in urban and industrial areas. Rising temperatures and longer dry periods increase the formation of smog, which harms public health and aggravates respiratory diseases.

In the Caribbean, air pollution varies seasonally, with higher levels during the dry due to trade winds and Saharan dust. Local sources such as vehicle emissions, biomass burning, and waste disposal also contribute to poor air quality. 

Ways to control air pollution in urban areas:

  • Expand and improve public transport, and create safe infrastructure for walking and cycling.
  • Establish low-emission zones where vehicle access and parking are restricted based on emission levels.
  • Increase green spaces and integrate trees and plants into urban planning to filter pollutants and absorb carbon.
  • Strengthen air quality monitoring systems and link them to early warning alerts.
  • Engage communities through awareness campaigns and citizen-led air quality monitoring.

Feasibility & Local Applicability

This option is moderately to highly feasible for Caribbean islands. Urban centers in Curaçao, Aruba, and St. Maarten have concentrated traffic and tourism-related emissions, making targeted interventions practical. Existing infrastructure can be adapted for cleaner transport and active mobility, while green spaces can be integrated into urban planning. However, implementation requires strong governance and public engagement to ensure compliance and effectiveness.

Co-benefits

Improving air quality offers significant health benefits by reducing respiratory illnesses and heat-related stress. Cleaner urban environments enhance the appeal of tourist destinations, supporting local economies. Green infrastructure also contributes to carbon sequestration and cooling, reducing urban heat island effects.

Equity & Vulnerability Considerations

Air pollution disproportionately affects communities living near high-traffic or industrial areas. Adaptation strategies should prioritize these neighborhoods for interventions such as improved public transport and green spaces. Community engagement and awareness campaigns can empower residents to participate in monitoring and decision-making.

Costs

Low - High | Costs vary depending on the scale of interventions. Establishing low-emission zones and upgrading transport systems require upfront investment but can be phased in gradually. Green infrastructure and monitoring systems are relatively low-cost compared to health expenses from pollution-related diseases. Funding opportunities may exist through climate adaptation and public health programs. 

Case studies & Examples

Literature

Adaptation Options Overview