UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 31st March 2025

Home UPSC Current Affairs WHO conference: Over 50 countries pledge to reduce air pollution health impacts by 50% by 2040

WHO conference Over 50 countries pledge to reduce air pollution health impacts by 50% by 2040

Why in News?

India, along with over 50 countries, pledged to reduce the health impacts of air pollution by 50% by 2040 at the WHO Conference on Air Pollution and Health 2025, aligning with its National Clean Air Programme (NCAP).

Introduction

Air pollution remains a significant global health crisis, with millions of lives affected annually.
Recognizing its severe impact, over 50 countries, including India, pledged to reduce the health impacts of air pollution by 50% by 2040 at the World Health Organization (WHO) Conference on Air Pollution and Health held in Cartagena, Colombia.
India’s commitment aligns with its National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) and broader environmental policies.

India’s Pledge and Policy Initiatives

At the conference, Aakash Shrivastava, representing the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, reaffirmed India’s dedication to:

Strengthening air pollution and non-communicable disease surveillance.
Promoting cleaner cooking energy solutions, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Supporting healthcare professionals in mitigating pollution-related health risks.

This commitment is in line with the NCAP, which aims to achieve a 40% reduction in particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) levels by 2026 in targeted cities. However, challenges persist, as highlighted by a Parliamentary Standing Committee report revealing that ₹858 crore allocated for pollution control in 2024-25 remains unutilized.

Global Commitments and Policy Measures

Several nations announced strategic measures to combat air pollution:

Spain aims to establish a carbon-neutral healthcare system by 2050.
UK and Northern Ireland committed to air quality targets and the Africa Clean Air Programme.
Brazil plans to update national air quality standards in line with WHO guidelines.
China reaffirmed its efforts to strengthen air quality standards and meet national environmental goals for 2030, 2050, and 2060.
C40 Cities, representing nearly 100 global cities, pledged to expand clean air investments and enhance air quality monitoring.

Furthermore, the Clean Air Fund (CAF) announced an additional $90 million investment in global climate and health efforts over the next two years.

Challenges and the Way Forward

Despite global commitments, several challenges persist:

Financial Gaps: Many countries, including India, face issues in fund allocation and utilization.
Implementation of Air Quality Standards: While policies exist, enforcement mechanisms need strengthening.
Technology and Innovation: Investments in clean energy, sustainable transport, and emission-reducing technologies are crucial.
Global Cooperation: Addressing transboundary air pollution requires international collaboration.

Conclusion

India’s pledge at the WHO conference underscores its commitment to reducing air pollution and protecting public health.
However, effective implementation of policies like the NCAP, along with increased financial investments and public awareness, is necessary to achieve tangible progress.
The global commitments made at the conference reflect a collective effort to combat air pollution, but sustained action and accountability will determine their success.