Manila, Philippines – The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has noted a remarkable improvement in Metro Manila’s air quality in the 3rd quarter of 2011.
DENR Secretary Ramon Paje said the number of total suspended particulates (TSP) or the amount of dust particles in the environment decreased from 130 micrograms per normal cubic meter (ug/Ncm) in the 3rd quarter of 2010 to 120 ug/Ncm during the same period this year.
He noted that the present TSP level is 30 ug/Ncm higher than the normal amount of TSP set by the World Health Organization for one-year averaging time at 90 ug/Ncm.
As Paje pointed out that the level of TSP declined during the first three quarters of the year, he proposed the strict regulation of fireworks by setting up a common fireworks area to reduce the volume of pollution that usually surges over the holidays. (Ellalyn B. de Vera)