A majority of people living in Asian cities are exposed to unhealthy levels of air pollution every day. Seven out of 10 cities in developing Asian countries have unhealthy levels of air pollution, when measured as annual levels of particulate matter with size range of not greater than 10 microns (PM10). In order to better manage air pollution, air quality (AQ) levels must be measured using appropriate AQ monitoring systems. While data availability has increased in the region, there are still several issues on AQ monitoring. To further increase availability and scientific vigor of AQ data in Asian cities, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Clean Air Asia, carried out Air Quality Interventions: Improving Air Quality Monitoring Systems in Asian Cities (Sub-Project of RETA 6422: Mainstreaming Environment for Poverty Reduction) which focuses on improving AQ monitoring systems in the region and enhancing technical collaboration among Asian cities. The Good Practice Guidance for AQ Monitoring in Asian cities aims to provide a description of good practices for air quality monitoring systems based on essential characteristics of a good air quality monitoring system and build on lessons learned from the experience in Asian countries and
cities. It evaluates how the monitoring systems in Asian cities compare against these guidelines and identifies challenges in meeting them. The practices of some cities that have made significant progress in advancing their monitoring systems are also highlighted.