Particulate matter, specifically PM2.5, finer than a human hair’s diameter, infiltrates deep into lungs, inducing inflammation, entering the bloodstream, and affecting the heart and brain.
António Guterres, the UN Secretary-General, calls for intensified international cooperation to combat escalating air pollution, designating it a “global emergency” on the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies.
Airborne contaminants pose a substantial environmental health hazard, with the UN World Health Organization reporting that 99% of the world’s population is exposed to polluted air, especially in low and middle-income countries.
The gravity of this issue necessitates worldwide collaboration. This year’s theme, “Together for Clean Air,” underscores the pressing need for robust international partnerships, increased investment, and shared responsibility in mitigating air pollution.
Guterres emphasized, “Global problems require global solutions. We must act together for clean air.” He stressed the imperative to expedite an equitable shift from fossil fuels, notably coal, towards renewable energy sources, ensuring inclusivity.
Air pollution encompasses any substance – chemical, physical, or biological – that alters the natural composition of the atmosphere. Sources include household appliances, vehicles, industries, and wildfires, impacting both indoor and outdoor environments. Hazardous pollutants like carbon monoxide, ozone, nitrogen dioxide, and sulphur dioxide pose severe health risks.
Particulate matter, specifically PM2.5, finer than a human hair’s diameter, infiltrates deep into lungs, inducing inflammation, entering the bloodstream, and affecting the heart and brain.
Exposure to air pollution escalates the likelihood of strokes, heart and respiratory ailments, cancers, and other diseases, resulting in over 6.7 million premature deaths annually, as per WHO estimates.
Furthermore, air pollution disrupts plant life, diminishes crop yields, and jeopardizes food security. It exacerbates social and gender disparities, hampers economic progress, and hinders countries from achieving development objectives.
Martina Otto, head of the secretariat of the UN Environment Programme (UNEP)-convened Climate and Clean Air Coalition, underscored the pervasive impact on daily life, affecting all age groups but disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations.
Addressing air pollution aligns with broader goals, including combatting climate change, preserving biodiversity, and reducing pollution and waste, as well as advancing Sustainable Development Goals.
To enhance air quality, strategies should be context-specific, tailored to local contexts and sectors. Individuals can contribute by making eco-conscious choices, from purchases to transportation and cooking methods. Corporations can incorporate air quality considerations into corporate social responsibility, monitor and disclose pollution emissions, and champion emission-reduction initiatives.
Governments are encouraged to establish and enforce air pollution standards, aligning with the 2021 World Health Organization guidelines, and bolster their air quality monitoring capabilities.
Guterres reiterates, “Our air is a common good and a common responsibility. Let’s work together to clean it up, protect our health, and leave a healthy planet for generations to come.”
The International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies, observed annually on September 7, underscores the significance of clean air and the repercussions of air pollution on human health, particularly affecting women, children, and older individuals.