THE CONTEMPORARY WORLD

CASE STUDY
(FINAL OUTPUT)
Written Report

TCW 0005-34
BS Mechanical Engineering 1 - 1

Group 1
Elmundo, Lanz Yuri
Lopez, Norielle P.
Malibiran, Kinjiro Jireh V.
Muñoz, Carl Jonathan R.
Napule, Miguel Joaquin E.
Ordoña, Sean Andrei C.
Salazar, Vyel E.

Mr. Felbert H. Decano

Professor

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 JUNE 2023
Table of Contents:

Distribution of Tasks ………………………………………………………………………...……3

I. Summary…………………………………………………………………………………..4
II. Objectives…………………………………………………………………………………5
III. Background of the Study…...……………………………………………………………..5
IV. Conclusion………………………………………………………………………………...9
V. Recommendation and Solutions…………………………………………………...…….10

References ……………………..………………………………………………………………...13

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 Distribution of Tasks

I. Content Researchers:
a.) Elmundo, Lanz Yuri
b.) Lopez, Norielle P.
c.) Malibiran, Kinjiro Jireh V.
d.) Muñoz, Carl Jonathan R.
e.) Napule, Miguel Joaquin E.
f.) Ordoña, Sean Andrei C.
g.) Salazar, Vyel E.

II. Written Report

a.) Salazar, Vyel E.

III. Reporters:
a.) Elmundo, Lanz Yuri
b.) Lopez, Norielle P.
c.) Malibiran, Kinjiro Jireh V.
d.) Muñoz, Carl Jonathan R.
e.) Napule, Miguel Joaquin E.
f.) Ordoña, Sean Andrei C.
g.) Salazar, Vyel E.

IV. PPT
a.) Muñoz, Carl Jonathan R.

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Summary:

Chad, the most polluted country globally, is facing extremely severe pollution issues,
particularly related to air quality, with pollution levels exceeding recommended limits (IQair,
2022). The main contributors to pollution are improper waste management, transportation
emissions, reliance on wood and charcoal for energy, limited access to electricity, and dust
storms. To address these issues, Chad has partnered with the Climate and Clean Air Coalition
(CCAC) and implemented various initiatives.

The collaboration with the CCAC has led to efforts in promoting clean cooking
alternatives, improving waste management practices, transitioning to cleaner energy sources, and
enhancing public transportation systems. Chad is distributing cleaner cookstoves, promoting
cleaner cooking fuels, and installing waste management services in refugee camps and host
communities. The country is also transitioning to solar power and mini-grids to replace
traditional sources of energy.

By implementing these measures, Chad aims to mitigate pollution, improve air quality,
protect public health, and contribute to its overall development. The collaboration with the
CCAC provides support, resources, and expertise in achieving these goals. It also positions Chad
as a leader in environmental sustainability and attracts investments and partnerships. The
recommendations provided by the researchers further support Chad's efforts to address air
pollution. These recommendations include developing SLCP mitigation initiatives, investing in
clean and renewable energy sources, promoting cleaner alternatives for household cooking and
heating, enhancing public transportation systems, and promoting environmental education and
awareness.

By acknowledging the pollution problem, collaborating with the CCAC, and

implementing sustainable practices, Chad is taking steps toward a greener and healthier future.
These efforts not only benefit Chad but also contribute to the global fight against air pollution
and climate change.

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Objectives:

● To gather information and data regarding the issue and identify the main reason for the
pollution problem in Chad.
● To determine the steps that were given and addressed by a chosen organization.
● To propose more effective and realistic solutions and recommendations regarding the
problems that are causing the contemporary issue.

Background:

The 2022 World Air Quality Report names Chad as the country with the most
contaminated air in the world, surpassing Bangladesh (Yongo, 2023). Chad has a concentration
of 89.7 µg/m3, meaning that one cubic meter of air contains eighty-nine point seven micrograms
of pollutant (Zyl, 2023). According to data gathered from last year, air pollution levels are more
than 17 times higher than the WHO recommendation, of 10 µg/m3. These factors make air
pollution the 3rd leading risk factor for premature death, accounting for nearly 10% of deaths,
more than 14,000 in 2017 alone.

Moreover, because of the collection of different kinds of wastes such as inorganic,

organic materials, plastics, waste tires as well as the common methods of unregulated waste
burning, all create one origin of health impairing emissions like dioxins as well as furans.
Transportation also takes place in this issue. Key transport-related air quality challenges,
examples of which are old fleet, dirty fuel, and poor public transportation are all major sources of
potentially toxic airborne gasses. 90% of the energy used in Chad comes from wood and
charcoal, although the country is also using more natural gas, with consumption rising from 69
metric tons in 1999 to 367 metric tons in 2004. Only 12% of families in the capital and 1% in
rural regions have access to power, and indoor air pollution is thought to be responsible for 9,600
early deaths annually (DICF, 2022).

Dust storms are also thought to be an important factor in the transformation of various
terrestrial and marine ecosystems, as well as a potential major source of toxins and viruses. The

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Bodele Depression in Chad is responsible for around half of the 40 million metric tonnes of dust
that are transported annually across the Atlantic from the Sahara to the Amazon (NASA 2007a).

Chad is a landlocked nation in central Africa. It is bordered by Libya to the north, Sudan
to the east, the Central African Republic to the south, Cameroon and Nigeria to the southwest,
and Niger to the west. Chad is noted for its numerous ethnic groups and traditions, with an
estimated population of roughly 16 million people (2023 est.). The Sahara Desert in the north,
which covers a large chunk of the nation, the Sahel area in the middle, and the Lake Chad Basin
in the southwest are the primary environmental features of Chad. Despite severe decreases owing
to climate change and rising water demands, Lake Chad remains an important water source for
Chad and adjacent nations. The main sources of pollution in Chad include a variety of activities.
Industrial emissions, particularly those from the oil extraction and refining industries, contribute
to air and water pollution. Household energy consumption is mostly based on traditional biomass
fuels such as wood and charcoal, resulting in interior and outdoor air pollution. Agricultural
activities, such as the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, contribute to water pollution by
leaching these compounds into bodies of water. Furthermore, slash-and-burn land-clearing tactics
can pollute the air. The transportation industry, notably road traffic, emits pollutants such as
carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter, which contribute to urban air
pollution. Pollution has a negative impact on Chad's health, ecology, and climate resilience. Air
pollution caused by home energy usage and transportation causes respiratory ailments,
cardiovascular disorders, and other health concerns in the population. Water contamination from
agricultural operations can harm aquatic life, disturb ecological balance, and decrease human and
wildlife access to clean water. Furthermore, pollution exacerbates climate change, making Chad
even more vulnerable to extreme weather occurrences and jeopardizing its climate resilience.

A global initiative called the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC) was established in
2012 with the goal of lowering short-lived climate pollutants or SLCPs in order to combat both
air pollution and climate change. In response to mounting worries about the negative effects of
SLCPs on human health, ecosystems, and climate, the CCAC was founded. In order to address
the issues raised by SLCPs, it serves as a global partnership that unites governments,
international organizations, civil society, and the corporate sector (CCAC, n.d.).

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 A number of nations and organizations saw the need for CCAC development and agreed
that addressing SLCPs required concerted action. It was formally introduced on February 16,
2012, with the goal of promoting creative solutions and catalyzing practical measures to lower
SLCP emissions. The United Nations Environment Programme UNEP and the United States
Environmental Protection Agency jointly oversaw the effort (CCAC, n.d.).

The CCAC works to reduce short-lived climate pollutants and the effects they have on
climate change, air quality, and human health. Its goals are divided into numerous categories. To
begin, they seek to educate policymakers, stakeholders, and the general public about the
importance of addressing SLCPs and their potential for immediate climate mitigation and air
quality improvement. The group hopes to win support and commitment for actions against
SLCPs by raising awareness and establishing political momentum.

Second, the said organization encourages nations to customize strategies to their

individual conditions and goals in order to support the formulation and implementation of
national action plans. These action plans entail identifying critical sectors, setting aggressive
emission reduction objectives, and implementing targeted interventions.

They are also essential in supporting technological and policy innovation. It encourages
the development and deployment of novel technologies, practices, and policies aimed at lowering
SLCP emissions. This involves supporting the adoption of cleaner technology, increasing energy
efficiency, and fostering sustainable practices in a variety of areas including energy, agriculture,
waste management, and transportation.

Finally, the CCAC highlights the significance of country capacity building and
knowledge sharing. The group offers technical support, capacity-building programs, and
platforms for exchanging best practices, scientific research, and policy recommendations. This
assistance enables countries to increase their understanding of SLCPs, improve decision-making
processes, and take effective action at both the national and regional levels (CCAC, n.d.).

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 Chad has undertaken specific steps and actions to mitigate pollution and enhance air
quality in partnership with the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC). The CCAC has helped
Chad promote clean cooking alternatives, with the goal of reducing home air pollution caused by
inefficient cooking practices and the use of solid fuels. This has included the distribution and use
of cleaner cookstoves, as well as the promotion of cleaner cooking fuels such as liquefied
petroleum gas (LPG) or biogas. With the assistance of the United Nations system, Chad has
undertaken attempts to address waste management challenges. Household trash management
services have been installed in refugee camps and several host communities, most notably in
Sila, Wadi Fira, and Salamat, with 74% of homes now having access to proper waste
management services. However, the scope of waste management efforts in the country remains
limited.

Furthermore, the CCAC has aided in the installation of initiatives such as solar power
systems and mini-grids to replace traditional sources that contribute to pollution in Chad.
Through this support, Chad has been able to transition away from diesel generators and
inefficient biomass burning.

Improving waste management practices, strengthening emission restrictions, and

promoting pollution avoidance technology are critical steps in combating pollution in Chad.
These efforts can help to reduce pollution, improve air quality, and protect the public's health and
well-being (CCAC, n.d.).

Chad recognizes the need to implement policies targeted at curbing firewood cutting in
order to address the negative effects of this activity, which promotes desertification and
pollution. The creation of a national waste management policy is a key step in this direction. A
policy like this is critical for protecting public health and encouraging the country's overall
development.

A conditional scenario including the installation of waste treatment plants in major urban
centers is being examined as part of the efforts to adequately manage waste. This strategy is
predicted to have a significant reduction impact, with an estimated 10% decrease in emissions

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connected with solid waste management. Chad can alleviate pollution caused by insufficient
waste disposal procedures and lessen its environmental footprint by implementing these waste
treatment plants.

Conclusion:

“The first step in solving a problem is to recognize that it exists”, as per American author
and motivational speaker Zig Ziglar. And that is why before solving the issue at hand, the
problem has to be figured out and acknowledged in order to draw up appropriate actions towards
it, considering all of the factors that can affect the surroundings from the solution that have been
formulated. A summary of the problem must be discovered, in order to understand its gravity and
how other countries can also be affected due to it being so prevalent, just like the issue that Chad
is facing at the moment.

The country in conversation has already replaced Bangladesh in terms of being the most
polluted country in the world, air-wise, ranking dead last in the list. With the air quality in the
said country being atrociously beyond the recommended standards by organizations, it has dealt
plenty of casualties in the process for several complications that are related to air pollution,
leading to several noncommunicable diseases (i.e, stroke, heart disease, lung cancer, etc.).

Chad's initiatives supported by the CCAC also have economic advantages. For instance,
promoting cleaner cooking alternatives and distributing cleaner cookstoves not only improves air
quality but also reduces the economic burden on households. Families can allocate their
resources to other essential needs, such as education and healthcare. Similarly, effective waste
management practices contribute to job creation and stimulate local economies by reducing the
reliance on solid fuels and traditional cooking methods. The development of waste treatment
plants and recycling facilities can create employment opportunities and foster the growth of
sustainable industries. Chad's commitment to pollution reduction and sustainable practices
enhances its international standing and attractiveness for investments and partnerships. As the
global community places increasing importance on environmental sustainability, countries that
demonstrate proactive measures in combating pollution and addressing climate change are likely

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to benefit from enhanced cooperation, financial support, and access to green technologies. By
positioning itself as a leader in these areas, Chad can attract investments in renewable energy
projects, waste management infrastructure, and sustainable industries, fostering long-term
economic growth and resilience.

Chad's collaboration with the CCAC not only showcases its dedication to mitigating
pollution and improving air quality but also highlights the broader benefits of these initiatives.
By addressing air pollution, promoting sustainable practices, and embracing clean energy
sources, Chad sets a positive example for other nations and contributes to the global movement
toward a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future. The collaboration with the CCAC
provides valuable support, resources, and expertise, making Chad's environmental goals more
achievable and reinforcing the importance of international cooperation in addressing the
challenges of air pollution and climate change. Chad can unlock economic opportunities, attract
investments, and pave the way for a greener and healthier future for its people and the planet if
they would start focusing on pollution reduction, enhancing waste management practices, and
embracing clean and sustainable development.

Recommendations and Solutions

The partnership of the Republic of Chad with the Climate and Clean Air Coalition
(CCAC) led to significant positive changes in their country. Moreover, the researchers provided
some recommendations to help the CCAC with their goal to alleviate air pollution not only for
Chad but also for other countries that also endure air pollution.

Short-lived Climate Pollutants Mitigation or SLCP Mitigation

Chad needs to develop its Short-lived Climate Pollutants (SLCP) mitigation initiatives in
the oil and gas, transportation, agricultural, home energy, and municipal solid waste sectors.
Since Chad has a huge problem with pollution from the mining industry and petroleum
extraction, an implementation for practicing the reduction of flaring and venting of associated
gas during oil extraction will benefit the country. To elaborate, this implementation allows the

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operator to release the gas inside their equipment and manage the pressure with the help of
burning the excess gas. Promote the use of advanced technologies for capturing and utilizing
associated gas. Support the development of policies and regulations to reduce methane emissions
from oil and gas operations.

Enhancing Social Partnerships and Constitutions

Participate in international partnerships and collaborations to exchange information,

skills, and best practices for pollution reduction. Work together with international organizations
and their neighboring nations to successfully handle transnational pollution challenges. Lowering
the strain on sustainability and directing this activity toward a more harmonic balance between
satiating human needs and maintaining environmental quality.

The economic power and social performance are mainly affected by the weak grip on the
rule of law in Chad. In turn, it defers private initiatives into investing and approaching the
country. With a firmer constitution, especially including fragile institutions that are directly in
relation to the social and economic prowess of the country overall, Chad can in turn mitigate the
financial decline and slowly be able to strengthen relations with other countries and initiatives.
Other than the financial aspect, it can also give a social uprising, especially in the country’s
populace. This is a large impact in terms of the long-term result since the discipline of people
throughout the land will be in a better state than it was.

Deforestation Control and Reforestation

Deforestation Control and Reforestation play a crucial role in mitigating air pollution by
preserving existing forests and restoring degraded areas. Trees act as natural air filters, absorbing
carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen while trapping airborne pollutants. Maintaining forest cover
and implementing reforestation programs can significantly reduce air pollution levels. A study
by Nowak et al. (2014) found that urban trees alone can remove substantial amounts of air
pollutants, contributing to cleaner air quality in cities. Similarly, a study by Viana et al. (2019)
highlighted the positive impact of reforestation on reducing atmospheric pollutants, emphasizing

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the importance of preserving and expanding forested areas. Therefore, prioritizing deforestation
control and reforestation efforts can effectively contribute to mitigating air pollution.

Green Infrastructure and Urban Planning

To enhance air quality and lower pollution in urban areas, use green infrastructure and
sustainable urban design strategies. This will involve the creation of green areas, programs to
plant trees, and eco-friendly building techniques. A deliberate plan for creating linked,
multipurpose networks of blue and green areas that will benefit society, the economy, and the
environment while also strengthening urban climate resilience. Factors that could have good
effects from implementing are air quality improvement, and water management. Green
infrastructure components like trees and vegetation can help mitigate air pollution by absorbing
and filtering harmful pollutants. Water management are factors that could have positive effects
from implementing green infrastructure and urban planning. Stormwater management and water
contamination are problems in urban areas. Rain gardens, permeable pavements, and green roofs
are examples of green infrastructure initiatives that may absorb and filter rainfall, easing the
strain on drainage systems and limiting the discharge of dirty water into water bodies, as well as
a reduction in the heat island effect.

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