Mitigating Urban Air Pollution from Small-Scale Industries: A Policy-Industry-Community Tripartite Framework for Cleaner Production

Abstract:

Small-scale industries (SSIs) are major contributors to urban air pollution in developing and developed economies alike, emitting high levels of particulate matter (PM2.5/PM10), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) due to outdated technologies and limited regulatory compliance. This study develops a tripartite framework integrating policy incentives, cleaner production technologies (CPTs), and community engagement through a systematic literature review (n=211) and cross-case analysis of 14 urban SSIs across Europe, Asia, and Africa. The findings identify three core pillars—regulatory alignment, technological adoption, and stakeholder collaboration—as critical for scalable pollution mitigation. The framework addresses gaps in existing research by bridging top-down policy with bottom-up industry and community action, while accounting for resource constraints of SSIs. Practical implications for policymakers, industry owners, and community organizations emphasize cost-effective, context-adaptive strategies that balance emission reductions with economic viability. This research contributes to Global Pollution Solutions discourse by providing actionable pathways to transform SSIs into low-emission enterprises.