Bangkok, Thailand – The 12th Better Air Quality (BAQ) Conference concluded today in Bangkok, with a central theme emerging: the tools to combat air pollution already exist, and the focus must now shift to effective implementation. The three-day conference, which ran from March 11-13, 2026, with pre-events on March 9-10, brought together policymakers, scientists, and environmental experts from across Asia and beyond to address the region’s escalating air quality challenges.
The conference, co-organized by Clean Air Asia, the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC), the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), and the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), underscored the urgency of the situation. Air pollution remains a critical public health and environmental issue across Asia and the Pacific, but also presents opportunities for collaboration and co-benefits related to climate goals. The BAQ 2026 theme, “Together for Clear Skies: Driving Action, Accelerating Investment,” reflects this call for collective progress.
Knowledge, Policy, and Technology are Available
A key takeaway from the conference is that a lack of knowledge or viable solutions is no longer the primary obstacle to cleaner air. Discussions highlighted the availability of policy tools and technologies capable of significantly reducing air pollution. The challenge now lies in translating this momentum into concrete action and securing the necessary investments to implement these solutions on the ground. The conference supported the implementation of recent global and regional frameworks, including the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA) Resolution 6/10, which promotes regional cooperation on air pollution, and the WHO World Health Assembly’s voluntary target to cut premature deaths caused by air pollution by 50% by 2040.
Regional Cooperation and Frameworks
BAQ 2026 also emphasized the importance of partnerships and investments to accelerate the implementation of solutions. The Asia-Pacific Regional Action Programme on Air Pollution (RAPAP), adopted by ESCAP’s member states, provides a framework for regional cooperation. The conference served as a platform to shape and deliver better air quality outcomes, ultimately aiming to improve health and well-being and contribute to global climate goals.
Focus on Asia and the Pacific
The conference specifically addressed the unique challenges faced by the Asia and the Pacific region. Rapid urbanization, industrial growth, and increasing vehicle emissions contribute to severe air pollution in many cities. The need for tailored solutions that consider local contexts and prioritize public health was a recurring theme throughout the discussions.
The urgency of addressing air quality issues in Asia’s megacities was a central point of discussion. The conference highlighted the potential for significant health and economic benefits from improved air quality, as well as the importance of integrating air quality considerations into broader development planning.
What’s Next
As the conference concludes, the focus shifts to translating the discussions and commitments into tangible results. Continued collaboration between governments, international organizations, and the private sector will be crucial to driving action and accelerating investment in air quality solutions. The success of these efforts will depend on sustained political will, effective policy implementation, and a commitment to prioritizing clean air for all.
What are your thoughts on the key takeaways from the Better Air Quality Conference 2026? Share your comments below and help us continue the conversation.
