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Understanding the problem

Air quality is linked to human activities, earth’s climate and ecosystems globally. Many of the drivers of air pollution (i.e. combustion of fossil fuels) are also sources of CO2 emissions and other short-lived climate pollutants, such as ozone and black carbon that greatly contribute to climate change, and affect human health. 

Quantifying and monitoring the effects of exposure to air pollution in terms of public health is a critical component in policy discussion.


 

 

Campaign

Trees, city and smog

BreatheLife is a joint campaign led by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Climate & Clean Air Coalition (CCAC) to mobilize cities and individuals to protect our health and planet from the effects of air pollution.

Related links

two installations equipped with measuring instruments on a high platform, with a green landscape in the background

WHO monitors the exposure levels and health impacts (i.e. deaths, DALYs) of air pollution at the national, regional and global level from ambient (outdoor) and household air pollution. Such estimates are used for official reporting like the world health statistics, and the Sustainable Development Goals.

Publications

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Engineer and wind turbine

A global dashboard to register progress on energy access, energy efficiency, renewable energy and international cooperation to advance SDG 7.

Health effects of air pollution: evidence and implications: technical brief

Air pollution is the leading environmental health risk factor causing about 6.6 million deaths globally every year. Currently reported as Sustainable Development...

Second global conference on air pollution and health: key themes and outcomes

Air pollution remains one of the leading environmental risks to health globally, contributing to an estimated seven million premature deaths each year...

Strengthening air quality standards to protect human health: an overview of the Western Pacific Region

This report, Strengthening Air Quality Standards to Protect Human Health: An overview of the Western Pacific Region, provides a comprehensive review of...