Health effects of urban SO2 from thermal power plants in Gampaha District, Sri Lanka | |
| Author | Gunawardhana, Hewawasam Gamage Luminda Niroshana |
| Call Number | AIT Thesis no.UE-06-06 |
| Subject(s) | Sulphur dioxide Sri Lanka Physiological effect Power-plants Sri Lanka Air Pollution Sri Lanka |
| Note | A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirement for the degree of Master of Science |
| Publisher | Asian Institute of Technology |
| Abstract | Numerous studies have reported an association between ambient sulfur dioxide (SO2) level and respiratory diseases. Sulfur dioxide (SO2) is air pollutant predominantly emitted by industries and thermal power plants, and is the major cause for acid rain. With tile saturation of hydro power sources in Sri Lanka, 4.6% of thermal power generation out of the total electricity generation in 1993 has boosted to 61.8% in 2002. Colombo and Gampaha, two neighboring districts account nearly 85% of the total installed capacity of thermal power generation in 2004 (61% and 24% in Colombo and Gampaha districts respectively). Latest monitoring records shows that SO2 concentration raises up to 0. 126 ppm, declaring unhealthy situation by Central Environmental Authority compare with the national standard of 0.08 ppm. Generalized linear regression model is applied to estimate the health effects of SO2 exposure. Seasonal variations of the SO2 concentrations, thermal power generation level, temperature, and number of population are shown to be significant. The study confirms strong association between SO2 level and the respiratory diseases, proving the need of pollution prevention strategy rather than end of pipe solution. Underline causes for the existing situation of air pollution associates with the environmental management measures were analyzed. Gaps and weaknesses of the existing controlling measures were discussed. Recommendations were proposed to guide the policy makers to promote the better quality of life of the people in Sri Lanka |
| Year | 2006 |
| Type | Thesis |
| School | School of Environment, Resources, and Development (SERD) |
| Department | Department of Development and Sustainability (DDS) |
| Academic Program/FoS | Urban Environmental and Management (UE) |
| Chairperson(s) | Nowarat Coowanitwong |
| Examination Committee(s) | Perera, L.A.S. Ranjith;Sajor, Edsel |
| Scholarship Donor(s) | NORAD |
| Degree | Thesis (M.Sc.) - Asian Institute of Technology, 2006 |