Air Pollution Control Act (Act No. 97 of 1968).

The purpose of this Act is to protect the health of citizens and to protect the living environment from air pollution by, among other things, regulating emissions of pollutants such as smoke, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and dust from industrial and construction activities, as well as implementing the Minamata Convention on Mercury. The Act is divided in the following Chapters: Chapter I, General Provisions; Chapter II, Regulation of Soot and Smoke Emissions; Chapter II-2, Regulation of Volatile Organic Compound Emissions; Chapter II-3, Regulation in Matters Involving Particulates; Chapter II-4, Regulation of Emissions of Mercury and Its Compounds; Chapter II-5, Furtherance of Measures Against Hazardous Air Pollutants; Chapter III, Permissible Limits for Automobile Exhaust; Chapter IV, Monitoring of Air Pollution Status; Chapter IV-2, Compensation for Loss and Damage; Chapter V, Miscellaneous Provisions; Chapter VI, Penal Provisions; Supplementary Provisions.
The Act establishes requirements for emissions, monitoring, and reporting, and outlines measures for pollution prevention and victim protection. It clarifies the responsibilities and obligations of businesses, government agencies, and individuals in addressing air pollution. It mandates that businesses monitor and report their pollutant emissions and implement necessary measures to reduce emissions. Government agencies at all levels are responsible for enforcing the Act, formulating environmental standards, and supervising pollution prevention efforts. The Act also introduces a system of strict liability for damages caused by pollution-related health hazards, requiring polluting enterprises to compensate victims. Additionally, it establishes penalties for violations, including fines and imprisonment, to ensure compliance with air pollution control regulations.