Case Study: How Singapore managed pollution from religious activities
Taoism & The Hungry Ghost Festival
Every year, Singapore will experience air pollution as the Hungry Ghost Festival kicks off in the 7th month of the Chinese calendar.
This is where Taoists burn incense and joss paper both as an offering and as a mode of communication with the deities. It is believed that the smoke emitted by the burning incense and paper rises up to the heavens and conveys our messages to the deities, who in turn, shower the believers with their blessings.
Air Pollution
A five year study showed that these outdoor burning activities are consistently linked to higher concentrations of several elements during august and September (the prime season for offerings).
This can potentially have consequences involving the worsening or triggering of respiratory diseases and skin allergies. Though not officially reported, many have claimed that they experience ailments like asthma, eye irritation, nasal and skin allergies during the period of time where burning of offerings occur.
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