B.tsogtbaatar Talks About Effects of Air Pollution on Public Health

Trans. by B.DULGUUN

Ulaanbaatar hosted the Effects of Air Pollution on Children's Health international conference at Shangri-La Hotel from January 25 to 26. The conference touched on significant topics concerning the effects of air pollution on the respiratory system and children's susceptibility to pneumonia.

Many scientists from different countries shared their studies and findings on the issue during the conference. Director of the Public Health Institute B.Tsogtbaatar gave an interesting presentation under the topic, "Assessment and Future Trends of the Impacts of Air Pollution on Public Health" at the conference.

B.Tsogtbaatar gave an intervew on the first day of the Effects of Air Pollution on Children's Health conference.

Why was the effects of air pollution on children's health chosen as the topic for the international conference?

Compared to the past, Mongolians are talking less about air pollution. The scope of air pollution projects has shrunk even though the smoke in the city hasn't decreased that much. The National Committee for Reducing Air Pollution started off enthusiastically because the Prime Minister had all deputy ministers join this committee and actively participate in activities. Many organization, such as the Millennium Challenge Account Mongolia and Clean Air Fund, were taking initiatives for this issue. In this sense, projects to combat air pollution was considered at a political level and were financially supported. People got to know their role at an executive level.

All sectors joined hands to improve the quality of air and worked together. The health sector isn't actually in charge of resolving air pollution issues despite the fact that negative effects from fuel, coal and energy damage people's health. It's vital to find solutions for this issue together. Yet, the strong passion and initiative have become weak. We're organizing the Effects of Air Pollution on Children's Health international conference in Ulaanbaatar to focus the public attention on air pollution again.

As part of the conference, Clean Air-Healthy Future arts and literature competitions were announced among children, and the winners were awarded at the conference. A painting exhibition was held to let adults hear to the voices of children and their opinions on air pollution, as well as see their creative artwork.

Many people have come to attend the conference. Can you tell us how many foreign representatives are participating?

The Ministry of...