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Activities Report 1999 Sept Newsletter

A need for both API and qualitative readings in the city 
      The Malaysian Nature Society (MNS) appreciates the move by the Department of Environment (DOE) to explain the air pollutant index (API) readings with terms such as ‘good’, ‘bad’ or ‘moderate’. This will definitely make API readings more easily understood by the general public.
      However, API readings are still very useful to researchers and monitoring agencies and thus should be made readily available for all, including the public. Readily accessible API readings will facilitate the research activities in regards to air pollution.
      Therefore it is recommended that the DOE make the API readings readily available together with its qualitative meanings of ‘good’, ‘bad’ or ‘moderate’. Accurate and precise readings together with the qualitative terms will make it more beneficial in the long run. The public and other monitoring agencies need to know the exact readings of the air quality for both health and research purposes. It is also important that this information is frequently updated with current readings.
      Furthermore, the Society suggests that it would be easier for DOE, research agencies and the general public, if an indicator board is put up in a suitable area in the city for all to see. Quite a number of cities, such as our neighboring country Indonesia (with an API display in Jakarta) already have API displays. Other developed nations also have API readings that are made readily accessible. The former Commonwealth countdown structure, with its LCD screen, could be a good place to display the daily readings. Other suitable places such as building tops could be chosen. The API readings together with its meaning could then be displayed. The Society also feels that informing the public via Internet is still needed as many have ready access to the Internet. 


Kuala Lumpur, 22 June, 1999 

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Created on 3rd Sept 1999