International day of clean air for blue skies
Аir pollution is the single greatest environmental risk to human health. One of the main causes of avoidable death globally.
Tiny, invisible particles of pollution penetrate deep into our lungs, bloodstream and bodies. These pollutants are responsible for about one-third of deaths from stroke, chronic respiratory disease, and lung cancer, as well as one-quarter of deaths from heart attack.
It is estimated that air pollution is the cause of 6.5 million premature deaths across the world annually. Disproportionately affecting women, children, and the elderly, especially in low-income populations and third world countries. People in these areas are often exposed to high levels of air pollution both outside and indoors where pollution from cooking and heating with wood, fuel, and kerosene is still in use. Air pollution is a global problem with far-reaching impacts, as the air we breathe is carried for thousands of miles and circles the Earth.
In the absence of aggressive intervention, the number of premature deaths resulting from ambient air pollution is estimated to be on track to increase by more than 50 percent by 2050.
To see what we are doing to fight air pollution, click here.
Poor air quality is one of humanity’s greatest challenges. With levels of air pollution that higher than the limits set out by the World Health Organization's air quality guidelines, the future of how we treat our air has to change.
What is the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies?
Endorsed by the U.N. September 7th marks the need to sustainably reduce the number of deaths and illnesses caused by hazardous chemicals, and air water and soil pollution and contamination. Or in other words, a day to start getting the air we breathe into shape!
On this day we mark the importance of working together to create a better environment. The international community acknowledges that improving air quality will enhance climate change mitigation and can play a role in reversing the harm already inflicted. It’s up to us to work together and improve the quality of air we breathe.
If you believe that everyone can make a difference, then the solution is already closer than it was yesterday. Because if we all do just a little something to help make this world a better place. If you inspire one person to reduce their carbon footprint, live a tiny bit more sustainably (it doesn’t take much), choose to care for the environment instead of turning away. If you do just that, you’ve done so much. Imagine what we can do together. Join us as one community 🌲
