Experts are starting to warn against air pollution, urging global leaders to act quickly before health concerns take more lives
Air pollution is responsible for at least 7 million deaths each year, with most of these deaths linked to chronic diseases such as heart disease, respiratory disorders, and lung cancer.
Despite the evidence showing the health concern and the devastating impact of air pollution, over the past decade, not a lot has been done to migrate this issue, allowing it to continue to threaten the health of millions every day.
A solution to curb air pollution
The upcoming Second WHO Global Conference on Air Pollution and Health in March 2025 is set to highlight this urgent issue, bringing together global health experts, policymakers, and advocates to explore actionable solutions to curb air pollution and protect public health.
The conference, which will take place in Cartagena, Colombia, is expected to be a turning point in the fight against this preventable crisis.
The cost of air pollution
Air pollution causes millions of deaths annually and places a significant burden on healthcare systems worldwide.
The global economic cost of air pollution is estimated at a staggering US$8.1 trillion, a price that is paid in lost productivity, healthcare expenses, and the long-term effects of pollution-related illnesses.
Less than 1% of global development aid is currently allocated to improving air quality, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, where vulnerable populations are most at risk.
The good news is that air pollution deaths are preventable. The global health community calls for immediate action from governments, businesses, and civil society to implement measures that can save lives and improve the quality of life for millions worldwide.
Improving air quality and health
To address this crisis, experts emphasise the need for governments to enforce strict air quality standards and reduce emissions at the source.
By aligning policies with the World Health Organization’s global air quality guidelines, nations can take steps toward ensuring cleaner air for their citizens.
This includes transitioning away from fossil fuels toward renewable energy sources in a fair way, just, and accessible to all, particularly in developing countries that are most affected by air pollution.
Monitoring systems also need to be strengthened. Governments must build capacity to track air quality effectively and to implement convenient interventions that protect public health. There is also a growing call for more funding to address air pollution, with both domestic and international resources needed to elevate clean air as a priority on national and global agendas.
Raising awareness
Experts stress the importance of interdisciplinary approaches that bring together health professionals, urban planners, environmentalists, and other stakeholders to share knowledge and drive coordinated action.
Awareness-raising campaigns and community empowerment programs are vital in helping individuals and organisations at the local level take effective action against air pollution.
With pollution being a leading cause of death and disease, it is clear that immediate, decisive action is needed.
Cleaner air will lead to healthier populations, lower healthcare costs, increased productivity and a more sustainable future.
The Second WHO Global Conference on Air Pollution and Health provides an essential opportunity for world leaders to unite and make the necessary decisions to address this global health concern.
Governments and stakeholders can protect public health, safeguard the environment, and ensure a healthier, more sustainable future for future generations by prioritising clean air.
