Ruby Maka Shrestha
Thesis title: The Political Economy of Vulnerability to Air Pollution in the Kathmandu Valley, Nepal
The project aims to understand the political economy and spatial geography of air pollution exposure amongst low-income communities of the Kathmandu Valley, Nepal, using a combination of qualitative and quantitative data and analysis of data from low-cost portable particulate matter (PM) sensors. It seeks firstly to understand how livelihoods are stratified according to class, caste/ethnicity, and gender, and how this impacts daily spatial mobility in terms of the location of one’s residence, length of commute, and time spent in areas recognized as pollution hotspots. The project will secondly seek to understand how these stratified livelihood strategies and mobility patterns affect daily exposure to particulate matter outdoors, in one’s place of work, and inside the home. Finally, the project will involve work with government and civil society stakeholders to identify effective interventions in terms of tailored responses to reduce exposure amongst the most vulnerable groups.
Biography
Ruby, currently a PhD Candidate at the Department of Geography, Earth, and Environmental Sciences at the University of Birmingham, is dedicated to investigating the intersection of political economy and spatial geography in relation to air pollution exposure within low-income communities in Nepal's Kathmandu Valley. Her research methodology combines traditional approaches with the innovative use of cost-effective portable particulate matter (PM) sensors, offering a comprehensive understanding of air pollution patterns in vulnerable communities. Collaborating closely with policy makers, Ruby aims to advocate for sustainable and equitable environmental practices, striving to enhance the quality of life for marginalized populations. Her academic trajectory showcases a diverse academic background encompassing Public Health and Social Sciences, providing her with the expertise needed to navigate the intricate dimensions of her research. In 2020, Ruby achieved a European Masters in Public Health, specializing in Environmental and Occupational Health. With a substantial three-year stint in public health and health policy research in Nepal, collaborating with multi-disciplinary teams, Ruby has honed her expertise in these domains. Her research pursuits encompass a wide array of interests, including Environmental Health, Climate Change, Health Policy, and Global Health, illustrating her dedication to tackling intricate environmental and public health challenges.
Human Geography
University of Birmingham
2023 Cohort, 3.5
linkedin.com/in/ruby-maka-shrestha
Supervisory Team
Dr Rosie Day
Dr Fraser Sugden
Prof Francis Pope
Collaborator
International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD)