Air pollution killed 135 million people in last four decades, landmark study finds

Study Finds Air Pollution Linked to 135 Million Premature Deaths Worldwide

A recent study conducted by Nanyang Technological University of Singapore has revealed that air pollution has caused approximately 135 million premature deaths globally between 1980 and 2020. This study, one of the largest of its kind, highlights the severity of the problem and the urgent need to address it in order to protect human health.

Impact of Air Pollution on Human Health

The study found that air pollution is responsible for cutting short the lives of tens of millions of people by causing preventable or treatable diseases and strokes. Fine particulate matter, known as PM2.5, is a major contributor to air pollution and can penetrate the lungs and bloodstream, leading to chronic illnesses such as asthma, heart attacks, and bronchitis.

Weather Patterns and Air Pollution

The researchers also discovered that weather patterns, such as El Niño and changes in ocean temperatures, exacerbate the impact of air pollution. These weather phenomena can create stagnant air conditions, resulting in higher concentrations of PM2.5. The study revealed that these weather changes increased the number of premature deaths by 14%.

Regional Impact

Asia, particularly China and India, had the highest number of premature deaths attributable to PM2.5 pollution, with over 98 million people affected. Other countries such as Pakistan, Bangladesh, Indonesia, and Japan also experienced significant numbers of premature deaths. The study estimated that one-third of these deaths were caused by stroke, another third by heart disease, and the remaining by lung-related diseases and infections.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

This study emphasizes the importance of addressing air pollution in the context of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Goal 3 focuses on ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages, and air pollution is a significant threat to achieving this goal. By reducing air pollution, countries can protect the health of their populations and contribute to sustainable development.

Conclusion

Air pollution has had a devastating impact on global health, causing millions of premature deaths. This study highlights the urgent need to tackle air pollution and mitigate its effects on human health. By understanding the link between weather patterns and air quality, healthcare providers can better prepare for an increase in pollution-related ailments. Addressing air pollution is crucial for achieving the SDGs and creating a healthier and more sustainable future.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being

   • Target 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
   • Indicator 3.9.1: Mortality rate attributed to household and ambient air pollution.

2. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

   • Target 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management.
   • Indicator 11.6.2: Annual mean levels of fine particulate matter (e.g., PM2.5 and PM10) in cities (population-weighted).

3. SDG 13: Climate Action

   • Target 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries.
   • Indicator 13.1.2: Number of deaths, missing persons, and directly affected persons attributed to disasters per 100,000 population.

Analysis

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

   The issues highlighted in the article are connected to SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 13 (Climate Action).

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

   • Under SDG 3, the specific target identified is Target 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
   • Under SDG 11, the specific target identified is Target 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management.
   • Under SDG 13, the specific target identified is Target 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

   • For Target 3.9 under SDG 3, the article mentions the indicator Mortality rate attributed to household and ambient air pollution.
   • For Target 11.6 under SDG 11, the article mentions the indicator Annual mean levels of fine particulate matter (e.g., PM2.5 and PM10) in cities (population-weighted).
   • For Target 13.1 under SDG 13, the article does not explicitly mention any indicators related to this target.

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: independent.co.uk