Reimagining urban air-quality governance: A systems-thinking framework.

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Public Health
• Policy Analysis

Background:

• Air pollution remains a significant global challenge despite existing air quality standards.
• Inadequate local policy implementation, driven by misaligned stakeholder goals, hinders progress.
• Systems thinking is crucial for understanding and addressing complex environmental policy issues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify implementation gaps in air quality management using a systems thinking approach.
• To analyze policy resistance stemming from misaligned stakeholder objectives.
• To propose a framework for realigning air quality management systems around public health goals.

Main Methods:

• Application of a systems thinking approach to air quality management in India.
• Adaptation of the Integrated Air Quality and Climate Change (IAQCC) framework.
• Construction of causal loop diagrams (CLDs) to map feedback relationships.

Main Results:

• Three feedback loops perpetuate policy stagnation: insufficient monitoring data, fragmented authority, and weak local compliance.
• These loops originate from the absence of a unifying objective.
• Reorienting the system around public health goals can align incentives and reduce resistance.

Conclusions:

• Establishing integrated air-and-health data platforms is a key leverage point.
• Airshed-based governance is essential for cross-jurisdictional coordination.
• Empowering citizen science and community oversight promotes participatory governance and improves air quality management.