air pollution worldwide needs to be addressed

Air pollution worldwide takes the lives of approximately seven million people every year. Data shows that 9 out of 10 people breathe air that exceeds WHO guideline limits and it contains high level of pollutants. The World Health Organization is supporting countries to address air pollution.

Industrial pollution is a major threat to health and climate. Smog hanging over cities and smoke inside houses is now more evident than before. Premature deaths occur every year as a result of increased deteriorating health conditions such as strokes, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer and acute respiratory infections.

About 91% of the world’s population lives in areas where the air quality does not meet the WHO standards. Policies supporting sustainable land use, cleaner household energy and transport, energy-efficient housing, power generation, industry and better municipal waste management can effectively reduce sources of air pollution.

The quality of the air is directly linked to the earth’s climate and the ecosystem worldwide. Many sources of air pollution are also sources of greenhouse gas emissions. Therefore, it is a “win-win” solution for both climate and health. This in turn will lower the diseases attributed to air pollution as well as contribute to the long-term climate change.

3.8 million deaths each year are caused by exposure to smoke from cooking fires. Lighting Kerosene in simple wick lamps also produce quite a lot of emissions of fine particles and other pollutants. Indoor air pollutants can lead to a range of adverse health problems in children and adults, from respiratory illnesses to cancer and eye problems.

Members of households that rely on polluting fuels and devices suffer a higher risk of burns, poisonings, musculoskeletal injuries and accidents.

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