Over 47 million people have united to demand urgent action against air pollution, a leading cause of global health problems. This initiative will be presented at the Second Global Conference on Air Pollution and Health in March 2025. WHO leaders emphasize the necessity for governments to adopt stricter air quality measures and promote cleaner energy to mitigate health risks and combat diseases. The commitment from the conference will shape a healthier future for society.
Over 47 million individuals, including health professionals and advocates, have united to demand swift and decisive action against air pollution, recognizing it as a critical environmental health threat. This global initiative will present its findings at the upcoming Second Global Conference on Air Pollution and Health in Cartagena, Colombia, from March 25-27, 2025. Air pollution is linked to approximately 7 million deaths annually, primarily due to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), emphasized the necessity of scientifically driven actions, stating that the health community’s voices must be acknowledged. The conference aims to foster commitments from governments to adopt actionable measures that curb pollution and promote better health outcomes. Political leaders and representatives from various sectors will collaborate to enhance global public health and address climate change.
The health sector is urging governments to immediately implement strategies aimed at reducing emissions, improving air quality standards, and transitioning to cleaner energy. Addressing air pollution is crucial in combating noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), which account for 41 million annual deaths and are closely associated with pollution exposure.
Dr. Maria Neira, Director for Environment, Climate Change, and Health at WHO, highlighted the essential shift towards renewable energy and sustainable practices. She emphasized that while the challenges are significant, improvements in air quality can be achieved through stringent regulations. Clean air is fundamentally recognized as a human right by the UN General Assembly.
The commitments to be made at both the conference and the UN High-Level meeting on NCDs will be pivotal for establishing a healthier future. With approximately 2.1 billion people exposed to hazardous household air pollution, effective solutions are urgently needed. Countries are expected to address these issues by adhering to the WHO Global Air Quality Guidelines and committing to strict enforcement measures.
In conclusion, the worldwide call for action against air pollution, endorsed by millions, illustrates a significant collective effort to enhance global health. The forthcoming conferences set the stage for actionable commitments that aim to reduce air pollution and its associated health risks. Urgent attention to cleaner energy and stricter emission standards is necessary to achieve a sustainable and healthier future for all.
Original Source: www.kenyanews.go.ke
