NATIONAL UNIVERSITY - LAGUNA

SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING AND ARCHITECTURE

CIVIL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT

ESENVI30: ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING

Case Analysis AQMS

Submitted by:
Nasol, Dhenis Angelo M.
Section:BSCE211D

Submitted to:

ENGR. MA. KATHLEEN L. DURAN, CIE, AAE, CLSSGB

FACULTY

January 14, 2024

SCORE
 From Transfer to Knowledge Co-Production:
A Transdisciplinary Research Approach to Reduce
Black Carbon Emissions in Metro Manila, Philippines

What are the main objective of the TAME-BC project?

One of the serious and concerning global problems that affects the environment and the
health of the people is air pollution. For the past few years, this issue has been
worsening due to several causes. In order to take action to this, a project was
established to approach the air pollution issue in Metro Manila due to Black Carbon
Emission. This project is called “A Transdisciplinary Approach to Mitigate Emissions of
Black Carbon” (TAME-BC). Its primary goal is the reduction of black carbon emission in
Metro Manila and to provide a transdisciplinary approach to properly improve the quality
of health aspects of the transportation sector and policy making, by taking action to the
primary cause of Black Carbon Emission in Metro Manila.

How does TAME-BC approach the issue of black carbon emissions?

Taking action in such serious problems like black carbon emission needs a proper
approach. The Transdisciplinary Approach to Mitigate Emissions of Black Carbon
(TAME-BC) project conducted different assessments including the quality of air,
transport sector practices and health impacts of black carbon emission. This approach
is a great step in providing a proper solution to the issue.

What are the main sources of black carbon in Metro Manila?

Being one of the most convenient ways to travel from point A to point B is by commuting.
Riding a jeepney is one of our traditional ways to get around and it is known as the “king
of road” , but that is one of the most sources of black emission especially in Metro
Manila. Based on the case study, the main source of black carbon in metro manila is the
public utility jeepneys (PUJ). In fact, the Black Carbon mass from the PUJ is 70 times
higher than in other Asian Countries and it was found out that the jeepneys contribute
up to 94% of the black carbon emissions.
What are the health impacts of black carbon exposure?

Being exposed to black carbon can lead to different serious health issues. The main
organ that can be affected when people are exposed to black carbon for a long period
of time is their respiratory and cardiovascular system. This may lead to lung cancer,
diabetes and stroke that can cause death. This disease reflects the impact of the black
carbon on the health aspect of the people.

What are the challenges does the project face in implementing its solutions?

Due to this alarming issue, the proposed solutions were established. The
implementation of the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP). Based on
the case study, this program will provide a better transportation system and lessen the
black carbon emissions. In order for it to be implemented, widely phasing out of
traditional PUJ was recommended. But, this solution faces challenges in implementing it
such as financial and technical aspects. One of these challenges is the fact that the
jeepney drivers are from the low-income sector. Meaning, there is a chance that they
can’t afford to use modern vehicles.