Economic growth and energy consumption as discussed above lead to problems of trans-boundary air pollution. The effects of coal burning spread over a large area and result in acid deposition in the vicinity of the coal burning plants as well as further away. The accumulation of fly ash adds to air quality deterioration by increasing SPM levels. The discussion above presents a poor image of atmospheric conditions in the Asia-Pacific region. However, it is important to note that there are numerous ongoing national and regional initiatives to bring these problems under control.
Vehicular emissions are a significant problem in all major cities.
The government of the Philippines is attempting to address this issue through plans to limit the number of vehicles on the road. Similar measures are also being taken in Thailand. India has implemented programmes setting emission standards for vehicles on the road as well as requiring manufacturers to meet strict emission standards for all new vehicles. Significant penalties are imposed on violators. In several countries, including the Philippines, unleaded petrol has been introduced widely and new vehicles are required to be able to run on this fuel.