For the past few months, we’ve been suffering through the horrible haze that has been caused by raging forest fires across parts of Indonesia.
These forest fires are frequently caused by farmers using the slash-and-burn technique of clearing land for new plantations such as palm oil. However, The Guardian reports that “this year a prolonged dry season and the impact of El Niño have made the situation far worse.”
The haze may cause illnesses such as respiratory tract infections. What’s more, kids can’t play outdoors when the Pollutant Standard Index (PSI) levels go above a certain point, businesses and schools are affected and so on. Needless to say, the haze negatively affects us all.
While we currently have some respite from the haze because of rain, it’s still good to arm yourself with plenty of information about it, just in case PSI levels soar again.
Here are the links to all you need to know about the haze in Singapore.
What is it, and why does it happen?
What causes South East Asia’s haze?
Information about the haze from the National Environment Agency (NEA)
Health impact of the haze and how to protect yourself and loved ones from it
How to protect newborns and pregnant mums from the haze
The devastating impact of the haze on Indonesia’s children
The Ministry of Health’s Haze Subsidy Scheme
Indoor plants for air purification
Doctor’s advice: Health tips during the haze
Advice from the Health Promotion Board: Health impacts of the haze
Ministry of Health FAQ on health impacts of the haze
Activities for kids and families during the haze
Best indoor playground for kids in Singapore
25 ways to keep preschoolers occupied
25 ways to keep toddlers occupied
Putting an end to the haze
Major supermarkets withdraw haze-related products
An 8-year-old’s appeal to stop the haze
Greenpeace petition to stop the haze
We hope you found this information useful. How have you been coping with the haze this year and how has it affected your family? Do let us know in a comment below.