ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the question of how the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) can be used to improve air quality in mega-cities. It describes air quality, climate change and their interactions. The chapter explains the CDM functions. It learnt from four cases studies in Asia representing potential CDM projects that benefit air quality. The chapter barriers and opportunities related to the use of the CDM for improving air quality. Urban air pollution is a serious environmental risk in many Asian cities. It affects the health, well-being and life chances of each person, including the most vulnerable parts of population—women and children. The CDM is a means for developed countries to achieve part of their target under the Kyoto Protocol by purchasing Certified Emission Reductions from greenhouse gas reduction projects in developing countries. The CURB-AIR approach, the CDM could provide a window of opportunity for promoting air quality measures that also reduce greenhouse gas emissions, thereby connecting these important environmental issues.
