Approaches to better air quality through reduction of emissions contributing to increased human health, a healthier environment, food security (through better crop yields) and climate protection need to actively include the participation of the wider public in order to appropriately address the needs of those affected and to increase their knowledge and awareness of this environmental threat. This can only be achieved through the development and implementation of approaches that account for local knowledge, cultural practices and priorities of the intended recipients of interventions.
- Include a wide range of local stakeholders in pilot studies
- Use co-created transdisciplinary approach to (air pollution) awareness using methods appreciated by affected communities including interviews, storytelling, participatory mapping, theatre, playful activities and music
Contrasting definitions of the problem (air pollution), unexpected solutions to the problem, differing perceptions of who was responsible for enacting solutions and an overall view that the problem (air pollution) cannot be seen in isolation from other issues faced by settlement residents were the main lessons learned from the project.