Air pollution, primarily driven by the burning of fossil fuels, is one of the greatest public health threats globally, contributing to 7 million premature deaths annually and exacerbating the climate crisis. The same pollutants that harm human health also contribute to global warming, creating a dangerous feedback loop that disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, particularly children.
The Clean Air, Healthy Lives policy roadmap provides a clear roadmap for health ministries – especially in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) – to address air pollution’s devastating health impacts.
The brief highlights diverse global case studies—from India, Singapore, the Philippines, the ASEAN region, the UK, and South Africa—that showcase successful approaches to integrating health considerations into air quality management. These case studies demonstrate:
- How leveraging data can improve patient care and inform policymaking.
- The power of community-led advocacy in driving regulatory reforms.
- Strategies for integrating air pollution responses within national and local health systems.
By integrating air quality management into healthcare systems, countries can build resilience and improve public health outcomes. Key components include:
- Strengthening Health Leadership – Empowering health ministries to lead on air pollution issues by integrating environmental determinants into public health policies.
- Investing in Resilient Health Infrastructure – Equipping health systems with the tools, training, and data to effectively monitor, mitigate, and manage air pollution-related diseases.
- Fostering Cross-Sectoral Collaboration – Building partnerships between health, environment, and other sectors to ensure a holistic and coordinated response.
- Engaging Communities for Sustainable Change – Mobilising community-driven initiatives and public support to drive policy change and strengthen accountability.
Read the full report here.
