Air Quality in a Large City in the Baikal Natural Territory: the Social Dimension (a Case Study of Ulan-Ude)

Abstract

In this article, we propose a new approach to the development of measures to reduce the negative impact of pollutant emissions from stationary sources. For the first time, a systematic approach was applied to the development of measures to reduce the negative impact of emissions into the atmosphere for a large city in the Baikal Natural Territory (a case study of Ulan-Ude). The use of a systematic approach helped us to achieve the following outcomes: to develop a geographic information system with sources of emissions into the air of Ulan-Ude (GIS “Air of Ulan-Ude”); to identify natural factors of atmospheric air pollution in Ulan-Ude; to develop registers of stationary sources of emissions; to assess the impact of air pollution on public health; to carry out a sociological survey using questionnaires; to propose suitable technical solutions to reduce the emissions. The research methodology involved the concept of sustainable development, in terms of preserving living conditions for future generations of mankind. The institutional approach was also used to study the environmental situation from the perspective of the interaction of social institutions. A sociological study of private households in the context of financial and environmental aspects of heat supply for different types of heating systems led us to the conclusion that the problem of pollutant emissions by households is related to the standard of living and the availability of green fuel. The following measures were proposed to improve the quality of atmospheric air. The functional zoning of residential areas for industrial and housing development should take into account climatic, natural, and technogenic factors affecting the redistribution of pollutants in the surface layer of the atmosphere. The authorities should assist in connecting residential buildings to central heating. State support for the transition to clean fuels (gas, electricity, smokeless fuel, etc.) through subsidies, partial compensations, and other incentive programs. State support for the development of small-scale power generation and alternative energy; raising public awareness of the need to reduce emissions into the atmosphere.