September 7: International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies – Update (September, 2022)

September 7, 2022

The International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies is observed every year on September 7.

Highlights

The day is facilitated by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
In the year 2021, the day was observed under the theme- ‘The Air We Share‘. It focuses on the transboundary nature of air pollution highlighting the need for collective accountability and collective action.

Background

This day was first established at the 74th session of the United Nations General Assembly in 2019. It seeks to create awareness regarding the significance of air quality.

First observance of the day

The day was first observed on September 7, 2020 across the world.

Coordinating Partners

The lead coordinating partners of the day are United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and Climate and Clean Air Coalition to Reduce Short-Lived Climate Pollutants (CCAC). Additional fundings were provided from the Federal Ministry of Environment, Nature Conservation & Nuclear Safety of Germany (BMU). In some commemoration, World Health Organization (WHO) partnered with NGO BreatheLife to organise activities.

Focus of the event

In the year 2022, this day & event focused on prioritizing the need for healthy air for all. It also lays stress on critical issues like climate change, human health, planetary health and Sustainable Development Goals.

Air pollution

As per United Nations, air pollution is a “two-fold problem”. It adversely impacts the health as well as climate. Tiny pollutant particles penetrate deep into bloodstream, lungs, and body. These pollutants cause about one-third of deaths from stroke, chronic respiratory disease, and lung cancer. It also led to asthma and chronic respiratory illnesses.

Short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs)

SLCPs are linked with health effects and near-term warming of the earth. These pollutants survive in atmosphere for few days and sometimes for few decades. It reduces their magnitude and can be proved fruitful in ensuring better health of earth and humans.

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