The Spatial Relationship Between Risk and Vulnerability Associated with Particulate Matter

This study presented an effective decision-making support plan for air-quality policy through a spatial analysis of the risks and vulnerabilities associated with particulate matter. The study defined the risks and vulnerabilities of particulate matter operationally, mapped Cheongju-Si as a case study, interpreted the spatial relationship between risk and vulnerability, and explored policy implications. New urban areas with a high proportion of industrial areas and adjacent to new housing estates and schools and old urban areas with low ground levels, a low proportion of urban parks, and a high concentration of old houses were identified as areas for priority management. The identified areas may be candidates for high-concentration intensive management and may be considered priority areas for the installation and distribution of emission-reduction equipment and the implementation of projects to support vulnerable groups. This study’s findings may be used as a basis for establishing both spatial environmental policies for the air sector in the integrated management of the land environment and air environmental policies that consider health equity.