World Cities Day 2025
The health imperative to reduce air pollution in cities and beyond
Despite governments recognising air pollution as a main NCD risk factor in the 2018 Political Declaration on NCDs, clean air action as part of national NCD responses has remained inadequate. Air pollution is the second largest risk factor for premature death globally, having overtaken tobacco, but funding and action for clean air solutions do not reflect the scale or urgency needed.
The evidence is clear, we have cost-effective solutions, and momentum is growing. What’s needed now is sustained commitment at all levels to turn ambition into action.
