Assessing PM2.5 in Bahrain From the DPSIR Framework Perspective

Abstract

Air pollution has been identified as one of the top priorities in every region around the globe. Particulate matter is the most important pollutant from a global public health perspective. Bahrain was ranked the 7th most polluted country in the world and the first in the Middle East with an annual average of PM2.5 much higher than the WHO recommended guidelines. The procedure included the use of previous relevant studies related to Bahrain. Integrated Environmental Assessment is performed for the PM2.5 in Bahrain by applying the Drivers, Pressures, State, Impact and Responses (DPSIR) framework. PM2.5 levels in Bahrain are exceeding its own national standards for a significant amount of time; this is primarily reflected on human health and the elevated prevalence of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs). Results revealed that drivers include population growth, economic development, urbanization and climate change, while the pressure is the emission of PM2.5 due to anthropogenic factors such as industry, energy production and land reclamation, as well as transboundary dust as a natural factor. Bahrain has taken various measures to minimize air pollution including the issuance of legislations and establishing the air quality monitoring program. Some measures were found to be less effective, for which improvements and more strict actions are required.