The report reveals that the majority of the global population is breathing polluted air, with only 17% of cities meeting air quality standards. Areas like Chad, Congo, and India have the most polluted air. Insufficient monitoring exacerbates the issue, while some cities show potential for improvement through stricter regulations and cleaner energy initiatives. The interconnectedness of air pollution and climate change is also emphasized.
A recent report indicates that the majority of the global population is exposed to polluted air, with only 17% of cities meeting established air quality standards. This study, conducted by the air quality monitoring database IQAir, utilized data from approximately 40,000 monitoring stations across 138 countries. The report identified Chad, Congo, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and India as having the most severely polluted air, with Byrnihat, India, noted as the worst city for air quality.
Experts express concern that actual pollution levels may be significantly underestimated due to insufficient monitoring in many regions. In Africa, for instance, there is only one air quality monitoring station for every 3.7 million people. Efforts are underway to increase monitoring, with 8,954 new locations and an additional thousand monitors contributing to improved data accuracy.
Compounding the issue, the U.S. State Department recently announced the cessation of publicly available air pollution data from its embassies and consulates. The dangers of long-term exposure to polluted air include respiratory illnesses, Alzheimer’s disease, and cancer. The World Health Organization estimates that approximately seven million people die annually due to air pollution, emphasizing the urgent need for reductions in pollution levels.
Notable progress has been made in cities like Beijing, Seoul, and Rybnik, where stricter regulations on emissions have led to improvements in air quality. Various initiatives, including cleaner energy promotion and investments in public transportation, have been implemented to combat pollution. Additionally, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations has sought to address transboundary haze pollution, although its success has been limited.
Shweta Narayan from the Global Climate and Health Alliance notes that regions facing severe air pollution are often also significant sources of greenhouse gas emissions. She highlights the interrelated nature of air quality and climate change, asserting that reducing planet-warming emissions can simultaneously enhance air quality. Overall, the report calls attention to the critical urgency of addressing air pollution as a fundamental public health and environmental issue.
In conclusion, the report highlights an alarming reality: a vast majority of the world is breathing polluted air, with severe implications for health and well-being. Only 17% of cities meet air pollution standards, and many areas suffer from inadequate monitoring. Effective measures can be undertaken to improve air quality, as demonstrated by certain cities and regional collaborations. Addressing air pollution is essential not only for public health but also for combating climate change.
Original Source: apnews.com
