Polluted air has killed millions around the world, and a large number of deaths caused by Covid-19 has been linked to pre-existing health conditions similar to diseases caused by air pollution, according to her.
Studies have shown that over the past few years, air quality in Qatar, especially in its major urban centres, has been deteriorating due to rapid industrialisation, urbanisation and increasing traffic. Qatar is also known to have a dusty climate, and al-Thani’s research is in close relation to the impact this has on human health and environment.
“For example, we have found out that 60% of this dust comes from natural resources while the rest comes from human activities such as transportation and construction. While the natural sources of dust might not impose critical health impacts, it still stimulates allergic reactions, such as asthma, in a large number of children and adults.”
“Hence, we have recommended several sustainable policies and solutions for air pollution problems in urban areas, including planting certain types of trees that have proven efficiency to enhance air quality such as Samar and Sidra trees,” the PhD candidate at HBKU, part of Qatar Foundation, said.
“In Qatar, traffic has reduced by a large measure due to online work practices and the closure of malls and recreation areas, and this would have significant impact on air quality – reducing harmful emissions much below the normal levels. Hence, it is expected that fewer asthma and emergency entries, due to respiratory diseases related to dust, would be admitted to hospitals,” she noted.
But the question remains – if air quality has improved amid the current lockdown, are there lessons to be learned for future actions and policies?
“Indeed, this is a very important point to highlight. Although the current situation has improved the air quality in Qatar and other parts around the world, we have learned many lessons from Covid-19,” she says.
The first lesson is that work and learning can be successfully accomplished online, she notes. Also, that people should maintain hygiene and implement safe distancing while shopping.
Hanadi al-Thani suggests that although the long-term impact is unpredictable, especially if life goes back to normal once the crisis ends, it is the responsibility of governments to implement strict measures on the use of transportation and other emission polluting practices where a balance is achieved between productivity and acceptable air quality.
As someone who is at the forefront of research that is designed to help build a more sustainable Qatar, and as a mother of four and a researcher, Hanadi al-Thani’s vision of herself was to contribute to building a sustainable environment in Qatar.
“It was something I have always aspired to do and it’s only the beginning for me as my research will expand,” she added.