Lead pollution is a particular problem in megacities of Southeast Asia. The introduction of unleaded fuels is reducing average lead levels, although the rate of decline is slower in Asia than elsewhere. Tokyo Serious problem. WHO guidelines exceeded by more than 100 per cent Moderate to heavy pollution. WHO guidelines exceeded by up to 100 per cent Low pollution.
Recent studies show that smoke and dust particles can significantly damage human health.
The negative impacts of domestic burning of solid fuels are not confined to developing countries. Some countries have managed to gain partial control over air quality deterioration. Demand for primary energy in Asia is expected to double every 12 years while the world average is every 28 years. High carbon-content fuels are likely to continue to dominate the region's energy market. This is likely to result in a significant increase in acid deposition problems, especially within East Asia.