Politics
AFRICA, ASIA, BY, BYRNIHAT, CALIFORNIA, CHAD, CHINA, CLIMATE CHANGE, CNN, DJAMENA, EMERGENCY RESPONSE, ENVIRONMENT, ENVIRONMENTAL DAMAGE, EXTREME WEATHER, INDIA, IQAIR, KAZAKHSTAN, MEXICO, N ’ DJAMENA, NEW DELHI, NORTH AMERICA, PAKISTAN, SUMAN MOMIN, UNITED STATES, WHO, WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION
Omar El-Sharif
Asia Dominates Global Pollution Rankings, Urging Urgent Action
A recent IQAir study reveals that 19 of the world’s 20 most polluted cities are in Asia, primarily in India, due to rapid industrialization and urbanization. PM2.5, a harmful pollutant, poses serious health risks, with India’s Byrnihat exceeding WHO guidelines by over 25 times. The report highlights significant air quality improvements in China and the need for stronger pollution controls globally.
Recent findings indicate that the majority of the world’s most polluted cities are located in Asia, with 19 out of 20 cities identified in a study from IQAir, a Swiss organization monitoring global air quality. India hosts 13 of these cities due to rapid economic growth, largely driven by coal, while Pakistan contributes four cities, and one each from China and Kazakhstan. Notably, the capital of Chad, N’Djamena, is the only city outside Asia featured on the list.
The report emphasizes the dangers of fine particulate matter (PM2.5), a critical pollutant that, being only 1/20th the width of a human hair, easily infiltrates the lungs and bloodstream. PM2.5 is produced from various sources, including fossil fuel combustion and dust storms. Its inhalation can lead to severe health conditions such as respiratory ailments, chronic kidney disease, and increased risks of cancer and stroke.
Byrnihat, an industrial town in India, reported alarming PM2.5 levels of 128.2 micrograms per cubic meter, far exceeding the World Health Organization’s (WHO) guideline of 5 micrograms. Local resident Suman Momin expressed despair over the persistent pollution, attributing it to industrial activity and construction. She noted, “I do not leave home without a mask” due to the poor air quality affecting visibility and causing discomfort.
New Delhi, recognized as the most polluted capital for six consecutive years, recorded a PM2.5 concentration of 91.8 micrograms. Six surrounding cities also ranked high in pollution, while India’s overall ranking improved, moving from third to fifth place globally for air quality. The report highlighted significant health implications, estimating that air pollution reduces life expectancy by 5.2 years.
In terms of neighboring countries, Bangladesh and Pakistan ranked second and third in global pollution levels. Conversely, China has made slight improvements in air quality due to stringent pollution control measures. However, concerns persist as new coal plant plans threaten to reverse advancements in reducing emissions.
The report reveals that all 20 cities listed exceeded the WHO PM2.5 guidelines by more than tenfold. This data underscores the persistent threat of air pollution to public health and environmental stability, with many regions lacking adequate monitoring systems. Frank Hammes, CEO of IQAir, emphasized the importance of data in guiding policy and raising awareness about air quality issues.
In North America, California reported the worst pollution levels, specifically in cities such as Ontario and Huntington Park. The United States, however, showed a significant decrease in PM2.5 levels, attributed to effective air quality monitoring. The report advocates for enhanced funding for renewable energy projects and stricter emission regulations to combat air pollution effectively.
The findings from the IQAir report paint a concerning picture of global air pollution, particularly within Asia. With the highest levels observed in Indian cities, urgent action and policy reform are required to address the health impacts and environmental challenges posed by PM2.5. The data reflects a need for improved air quality monitoring, especially in regions lacking adequate infrastructure. Enhanced cooperation among governments and local communities is essential to mitigate this pressing issue and safeguard public health.
Original Source: www.cnn.com
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