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Invest in Clean Air Now
The International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies, observed on September 7, carries the message “Invest in Clean Air Now!” This call to action is directed at everyone—from governments and corporations to civil society organisations and individuals—to collectively contribute to preserving clean air through investment and cooperation.
Air pollution is a global challenge that knows no borders. It is the most significant environmental risk to human health, while also threatening climate stability, reducing economic growth, and decreasing agricultural productivity. It is everyone’s responsibility to help protect our atmosphere and ensure healthy air for all.
By collectively investing time, resources, and effort, we can reduce air pollution and achieve transformative change.
Health and Climate Risks of Air Pollution
Air pollution has serious health consequences. Microscopic particles penetrate deep into our lungs and bloodstream, contributing to about one-third of all deaths from stroke, chronic respiratory diseases, and lung cancer. These particles are also responsible for a quarter of all heart attack cases. Additionally, ground-level ozone, which forms from the interaction of pollutants and sunlight, triggers asthma and other chronic respiratory problems.
On the climate side, short-lived air pollutants such as black carbon and methane immediately threaten health while significantly contributing to global warming. Though they remain in the atmosphere for a short time, reducing these pollutants can bring near-instant benefits for both health and the climate. (You can read more about this in our blog: Short-lived Climate Pollutants: A Critical Threat to Our Planet.)
A Global Challenge Demanding Urgent Action
Air pollution is a global issue affecting millions of people worldwide. Pollutants travel long distances, causing widespread harm. Without swift and decisive action, the number of premature deaths caused by outdoor air pollution is projected to rise by more than 50% by 2050. Vulnerable populations, particularly women, children, and the elderly in developing nations, are disproportionately affected, especially those using solid fuels for cooking and heating.
The societal cost of air pollution is enormous, impacting health, economies, productivity, and healthcare systems. Investing in pollution control brings health benefits and significant economic returns, indicating a solid economic rationale for immediate action.
Clean Air and Sustainable Development Goals
Air pollution is particularly prevalent in urban areas in developing countries, where pollution levels often exceed World Health Organization guidelines. Improving air quality is critical for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, especially in the context of sustainable cities and communities.
The United Nations recognizes the urgent need to reduce deaths and illnesses caused by air, water, and soil pollution by 2030. Enhancing air quality contributes to public health and climate change mitigation.
International Days as Opportunities for Action
International days like the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies offer an opportunity to raise awareness, mobilize resources, and reinforce political will to tackle global challenges. We invite you to join this international initiative and invest in clean air for a healthier, brighter future for all.
