Partnership for Healthy Cities Project

Project Profile: Partnership for Healthy Cities

Introduction: The "Partnership for Healthy Cities" is a collaborative initiative aimed at addressing air pollution and improving public health in Kathmandu, Nepal. Implemented by the National Federation of Youth NGO Nepal (NFYN), in collaboration with Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC), Vital Strategies, Bloomberg Philanthropies, the World Health Organization (WHO) and Clarity Movement, the project strives to create a cleaner and healthier environment for the residents of Kathmandu.

Project Duration: The project is scheduled to run from April 2022 to December 2024.

Objectives:

Assess the current status of air pollution and air quality management systems in Kathmandu Metropolitan City.

Identify and address existing network gaps in air quality monitoring through the deployment and strengthening of low-cost sensor networks.

Support KMC in enhancing data collection and reporting mechanisms to facilitate informed decision-making.

Coordinate with relevant stakeholders to form a consortium for the effective management and implementation of the Air Quality Management Plan within KMC.

Empower local communities through the dissemination of air quality data, advisories, and educational campaigns to raise awareness about air pollution and its impacts.

Implemented by:

National Federation of Youth NGO Nepal (NFYN): NFYN leads the project implementation, leveraging its expertise, community networks, and dedication to drive forward the objectives of the Partnership for Healthy Cities.

Partners:

Vital Strategies:  Provides financial support and resources for project activities.

Bloomberg Philanthropies: Offers technical/Financial support and expertise in public health interventions.

World Health Organization (WHO): Offers guidance, technical expertise, and best practices in air quality management.

Clarity Movement Co.: Deployment and Management of Low Cost AQ Sensors 

Kathmandu Metropolitan City: Coordination and Networking with local stakeholders,collaborating closely with NFYN for effective project implementation.

Approach:

Conduct comprehensive assessments of air pollution levels and existing air quality management systems.

Deploy and strengthen low-cost sensor networks to fill gaps in air quality monitoring.

Enhance data collection and reporting mechanisms to support evidence-based decision-making.

Facilitate collaboration and coordination among stakeholders through regular meetings and workshops.

Develop and implement educational campaigns to raise awareness about air pollution and its health impacts.

Empower local communities to take action through capacity-building activities and community engagement initiatives.

Activities:

Air quality monitoring and data analysis

Stakeholder engagement and coordination

Capacity-building workshops and training sessions

Educational campaigns and outreach activities

Policy advocacy and support for regulatory measures

Evaluation and monitoring of project outcomes

Expected Outcomes:

Improved air quality in Kathmandu Metropolitan City

Enhanced capacity of local authorities and stakeholders in air quality management

Increased awareness and understanding of air pollution among residents

Strengthened collaboration and coordination among government agencies, NGOs, and other stakeholders

Sustainable mechanisms for ongoing monitoring and management of air quality

Impact:

Reduced health risks associated with air pollution, including respiratory diseases and cardiovascular disorders

Improved quality of life for residents, particularly vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly

Economic benefits from decreased healthcare costs and increased productivity

Long-term environmental sustainability and resilience to climate change impacts

Sustainability:

Integration of project activities into existing government programs and policies

Capacity-building initiatives to empower local stakeholders to continue monitoring and managing air quality beyond the project duration

Establishment of partnerships and networks for ongoing collaboration and knowledge sharing

Conclusion: The Partnership for Healthy Cities, led and implement by NFYN and KMC, represents a collaborative effort to address the urgent challenge of air pollution in Kathmandu. By working together with local and international partners, NFYN is committed to creating a cleaner and healthier environment for the residents of Kathmandu, Nepal.