As over 4.5 million lives are lost annually to polluted air, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has issued a stark reminder: air pollution knows no borders. In its latest Air Quality and Climate Bulletin, the agency reveals a troubling rise in microscopic pollutants—especially from wildfires—that are now drifting across continents.
“Smoke from record-breaking wildfires in the Iberian Peninsula has already reached Western Europe,” said Lorenzo Labrador, WMO Scientific Officer.
The 2024 global map shows intense concentrations of PM2.5 particles—fine pollutants linked to respiratory illness—across Chile, Brazil, Ecuador, Canada, central Africa, and Siberia. These hotspots reflect a worsening trend driven by longer, more intense wildfire seasons fueled by climate change.
🌱 Signs of Progress: Eastern China and Europe Lead the Way
Despite the grim outlook, there are bright spots. Emissions have declined in regions like eastern China and parts of Europe, thanks to proactive urban planning and cleaner technologies. Cities such as Shanghai have expanded green spaces and embraced electric vehicles, showing that targeted interventions can yield measurable improvements.
“When cities act, air quality improves,” emphasized Paolo Laj, Chief of Global Atmosphere at WMO.
Still, most urban centers worldwide fall short of the air quality standards set by the World Health Organization (WHO). While pollutants like sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides are decreasing, ground-level ozone—smog’s main ingredient—remains stubbornly high, partly due to rising global temperatures.
🔥 Climate and Air Quality: A Shared Challenge
The WMO bulletin underscores the inseparable link between climate change and air pollution. Ko Barrett, WMO Deputy Secretary-General, called for integrated solutions to protect both planetary and public health.
Meanwhile, the UN is ramping up efforts to combat household air pollution, a major health hazard especially for children. Martina Otto of UNEP’s Climate and Clean Air Coalition highlighted the promise of clean cooking technologies, urging wider access to life-saving innovations.