The Clean Town Project, initiated by CAEDMI AIT in collaboration with Miami University in Ohio, aims to address the growing air pollution crisis in Kyrgyzstan, particularly in its capital, Bishkek. According to a 2022 UNDP report, between 2010 and 2019, 12-13% of all annual deaths in Kyrgyzstan were linked to air pollution, amounting to approximately 4100-5000 fatalities per year. The primary source of pollution during winter months is household heating using sulfur-rich fuel, which has a profound impact on the city’s air quality.

As part of the project, a Sustainable Chimney ActiveAir Filter is being designed and developed. This solution tackles the pressing issue of emissions from private house chimneys, particularly in regions where such heating systems are common. Inspired by technologies like smoke precipitators and electrostatic precipitators, the team aims to create a prototype that is:

1. Affordable and practical for private homeowners.
2. Eco-friendly, minimizing further environmental impact.
3. Self-powered or utilizing renewable energy resources.
4. Implemented and tested as a functional prototype.
5. An original solution tailored to the local context, avoiding replication of existing technologies.

This project not only contributes to cleaner air but also promotes sustainable living in Kyrgyzstan, encouraging innovation in environmental solutions.