Despite its known devastating impacts, air pollution is a problem. Many countries still have weak air quality regimes, which is alarming, especially as climate change threatens to worsen air pollution.
Air pollution is a major risk factor for death and disease globally, causing premature deaths from heart disease, stroke, lung cancer, and respiratory illnesses. Yet, it’s not an intractable problem. We have the knowledge and technology to reduce emissions and improve air quality. What’s lacking is political will and robust legal frameworks.
Climate change adds urgency to this challenge. Rising temperatures can worsen air pollution, and climate-driven effects will amplify the health impacts unless we act decisively.
We need a multi-pronged approach on strengthening air quality laws, creating comprehensive national air quality management plans, scaling up air quality monitoring, investing in clean energy, and empowering citizens with information about air quality.
The task is immense, but the benefits are equally large. Clean air is a fundamental human right and a prerequisite for sustainable development. Let’s commit to making clean air a global priority. Our health, climate, and future depend on it.
Green Climate Fund #airpollution #climatechange #sustainabledevelopment #cleanair #globalhealth #environment #climateaction #publichealth #cleanenergy
Bapon (SHM) Fakhruddin, PhD 