“Join Health Workers in the Fight for Cleaner Air: Aiming to Halve Pollution-Related Deaths by 2040” | Northeast Herald

To tackle air pollution and improve public health, over 50 countries, cities, and organizations came together recently, making new commitments at the Second WHO Global Conference on Air Pollution and Health. This event took place in Cartagena, Colombia, and gathered more than 700 participants, including world leaders, scientists, and advocates. They all share a common goal: to cut the health impacts of air pollution in half by 2040. This mission is backed by an impressive 47 million health professionals and advocates advocating for clean air as a public health priority.

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized the need for practical actions: financial investments in clean energy, strict enforcement of WHO air quality guidelines, and a commitment to protect vulnerable populations in polluted areas.

Air pollution is a silent but severe crisis, linked to seven million premature deaths every year and recognized as the second leading cause of global disease, following hypertension. Maria Neira from WHO stated that air pollution is now the primary risk factor for illness. The burden weighs heavily on countries with rapidly growing cities and inadequate regulations. She pointed out that chronic diseases linked to pollution are straining health systems worldwide.

Despite these alarming statistics, there are real solutions available. For instance, China has shown that it’s possible to reduce emissions while maintaining economic growth. “You don’t need to sacrifice growth for cleaner air,” Neira noted, suggesting that investments could lead to both environmental and economic benefits.

Air pollution also ties into the climate crisis. The fossil fuels that create air pollution are responsible for greenhouse gas emissions. Neira highlighted that improving air quality could also mitigate climate change. Countries that adopt cleaner technologies can reap benefits for public health, economic growth, and the overall environment.

In Colombia, leaders have committed to initiatives like cleaner fuels, zero-emission public transport, and a goal to lower carbon emissions by 40% by 2030. President Gustavo Petro stated, “Air pollution claims more victims than violence,” stressing the need for smarter regulations and addressing inequalities faced by indigenous and rural communities.

In Europe, lawmakers are also taking action, with new regulations aimed at cutting down air pollution and reducing related deaths. The European Union’s recent Air Quality Directive is set to halve pollution limits and aims to cut pollution-related deaths by 30% by 2030.

Internationally, the UN Economic Commission for Europe has highlighted successful agreements on cross-border pollution reduction, which could serve as a blueprint for other regions. The Air Convention has effectively reduced harmful emissions, and efforts are being made to assist countries in Latin America, Africa, and Asia in building their capacity to monitor and manage air quality.

A crucial takeaway from the conference is the health sector’s role in advocating for clean air. Medical professionals across the globe are calling for clean air as a central part of disease prevention. “I want to prescribe clean air,” Neira said, expressing the desire to prevent illnesses caused by toxic air instead of just treating them.

As the conference concluded, delegates left with renewed partnerships and strategies, but they also carried a strong message: the time for action is now; there’s no excuse for inaction on this critical issue. Everyone knows the risks, and it’s time to turn that knowledge into concrete steps for change.

For more information, you can visit the WHO’s official page on air pollution and health for detailed reports and updates.

Check out this related article: President Droupadi Murmu Advocates for a Clean Environment: A Moral Duty to Future Generations at NGT Conference

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