Report Indicates Majority of Global Population Breathes Polluted Air

A report reveals that 83% of cities globally fail to meet air quality guidelines, with countries like India and Bangladesh facing severe pollution levels. Ongoing efforts to establish more air quality monitoring stations are noted, but challenges persist due to reduced transparency in data. Experts stress that addressing air pollution is essential for public health and climate action, linking it to broader environmental issues.

A recent report by the air quality monitoring database IQAir reveals that a staggering majority of the global population breathes polluted air, with only 17% of cities adhering to established air quality standards. Notably, countries like Chad, Congo, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and India exhibit the highest levels of air pollution, with India containing six of the nine most polluted cities, particularly highlighting Byrnihat as the worst offender.

Experts caution that the documented levels of air pollution may underestimate the actual scenario, as many regions, especially in Africa, are insufficiently monitored—averaging just one air quality monitoring station for every 3.7 million inhabitants. To address this issue, new air quality monitors are being established; this year, the inclusion of data from nearly 9,000 new locations reflects these efforts.

In spite of these advancements, the recent decision by the U.S. State Department to cease public air pollution data releases from embassies has raised concerns about transparency. Prolonged exposure to polluted air has significant health repercussions, including respiratory diseases and cancer, as noted by Fatimah Ahamad, chief scientist at the Sunway Centre for Planetary Health.

Ahamad continues to emphasize the necessity of enhanced efforts to reduce air pollution, referencing World Health Organization statistics indicating that 99% of the world’s population lives in areas where air quality falls short of the recommended levels. “If you have bad air, you cannot tell people to pause breathing,” she stated poignantly.

Cities such as Beijing, Seoul, and Rybnik have demonstrated that stringent regulations on emissions from transport and industry can effectively improve air quality. Moreover, initiatives like the Association of Southeast Asian Nations agreement aim to tackle transboundary haze pollution through regional cooperation, despite its limited success thus far.

Shweta Narayan from the Global Climate and Health Alliance argues that regions suffering the most from air pollution are often those contributing heavily to greenhouse gas emissions through fossil fuel use. Addressing planet-warming emissions is crucial not only for climate action but also for enhancing air quality, as air pollution and climate change are intrinsically linked.

In conclusion, the report underscores a global crisis of air pollution affecting the majority of the world’s population. While efforts to enhance monitoring and improve air quality are underway, significant challenges remain, notably the lack of monitoring infrastructure in numerous regions. Consequently, comprehensive strategies and international cooperation are essential to effectively combat air pollution and its associated health risks.

Original Source: apnews.com