Air pollution is a global problem that poses a serious threat to human health, causing nearly 7 million premature deaths worldwide every year. A report by IQAir found that in 2023, only seven countries met the World Health Organization’s air quality guidelines, while over 90 percent of countries exceeded them. The data gathered from 134 countries, regions, and territories revealed that central and South Asia are home to the top ten most polluted cities in the world.
In North America, wildfires fueled by climate change have worsened air quality in cities like Minneapolis, Detroit, and Milwaukee. Glory Dolphin Hammes, the North American CEO for IQAir sheds light on the issue. Despite efforts to control air pollution, most nations struggle to meet air quality standards. The reasons behind this vary globally, making it difficult to generalize.
The report underscores the urgent need for countries to take action to improve air quality and protect public health. Addressing the root causes of air pollution, such as industrial emissions and wildfires, is crucial to creating a cleaner and healthier environment for all. It is time for governments and individuals around the world to prioritize this issue and work together towards a better future for all of humanity.
