One thing most countries have in common: unsafe air

illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on The New York Times or enjoy below:

🗞️ Driving the news: Only 10 out of 134 countries met the World Health Organization’s air quality standards last year, spotlighting the pervasive issue of PM2.5 pollution 
• This form of air pollution, composed of fine particulate matter, is the deadliest, contributing to millions of premature deaths annually

🔭 The context: PM2.5 pollution, mainly resulting from fossil fuel combustion, vehicle emissions, industrial activities, and agricultural practices, affects countries worldwide, with the worst air quality found in Asia and Africa  
• Notably, China saw a reversal in air quality improvements, with a significant increase in pollution levels after years of progress

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: The intersection of air pollution and climate change underscores the urgent need for global action on environmental health 
• As the planet warms, the health risks associated with air pollution, particularly PM2.5, are exacerbated, highlighting the need for stringent air quality controls and a shift away from fossil fuels

⏭️ What's next: With gaps in air quality data, particularly in Africa and the Middle East, and the increasing impact of wildfires on air quality, even in regions like North America, the global community faces challenges in measuring and mitigating air pollution 
• Efforts to improve air quality and reduce reliance on fossil fuels are critical to protecting public health and the environment

💬 One quote: "Air pollution and climate change both have the same culprit, which is fossil fuels," (Glory Dolphin Hammes, CEO of IQAir’s North American division)

Click for more news covering the latest on climate change