The Second WHO Global Conference on Air Pollution and Health concluded in Cartagena, Colombia with significant commitments from over 50 countries, cities, and organizations to combat air pollution and protect public health. The conference was aimed to drive progress in reducing air pollution and its impact on global health.
Key Highlights of the Conference
- Hosted by: World Health Organisation (WHO) in collaboration with the Government of Colombia.
- Participation: 700+ delegates from 100 countries, including government officials, UN agencies, civil society, scientists, and health organizations.
- The conference focuses on accelerating action for clean air, clean energy access, and climate change mitigation.
- It provided platform for discussion and collaboration on air quality, energy, and health, addressing the critical links between these areas.
Outcomes
- Key Commitment: A shared goal to reduce the health impacts by 50% by 2040 was agreed upon to save millions of lives every year.
- Actionable Measures: New policy commitments and funding pledges to combat air pollution.
- India’s Commitment: India reaffirmed its dedication to reducing the health impacts of air pollution by 2040, aligning its efforts with the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP). This commitment strengthens India’s initiatives to improve air quality and safeguard public health.
First WHO Global Conference on Air Pollution and Health
- It took place in Geneva, Switzerland in 2018, focusing on improving air quality, combating climate change, and saving lives, with the goal of reducing deaths from air pollution by two-thirds by 2030.