Air pollution increases in Tonga when non-organic waste like plastic is burned more frequently.
One way to measure air quality is through fine particulate matter called PM2.5. These tiny particles enter the air from many human and natural sources, such as dust and vehicle exhaust, and can make the air appear hazy when at high levels. Particles can travel vast distances, meaning air pollution caused in one place may transcend borders to impact people in another region altogether. The decline in clean air is a threat to human health, the environment, greater economic prosperity, and society.
When waste is managed improperly, it can have lasting negative effects on the health of our communities and environment. Due to Tonga's inefficient waste management system, large amounts of trash are incinerated, which releases air pollutants such as particulate matter and toxic gases. These pollutants disproportionately cause higher rates of cancer or respiratory illnesses among those located nearby incineration plants, but can also affect those far away. Let your government know that it must improve Tonga's waste management system and institute measures to reduce waste!