Delhi’s alarming air quality took center stage at COP29, with experts calling for urgent action to address the health risks of air pollution.
Delhi’s Severe Pollution Highlights Urgency at COP29: Key Insights
At the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29), the hazardous air quality in Delhi became a focal point, drawing attention from experts who stressed the urgent need for global action to tackle air pollution and its health risks.
Key Insights from COP29
- Health Risks of Air Pollution: Aarti Khosla, Director of Climate Trends, highlighted the alarming state of Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI), which has reached hazardous levels. Some areas recorded particulate pollution exceeding 1,000 micrograms per cubic meter. Khosla pointed out that pollution arises from multiple sources, including black carbon, ozone, fossil fuel combustion, and agricultural burning. She stated, “We need comprehensive solutions that address all these factors.”
- Impact of Weather Patterns: Khosla also noted that low wind speeds during the La Niña weather phenomenon are trapping pollutants, worsening the air quality. “While we discuss significant global challenges, the health of millions is at stake. We must act swiftly,” she urged.
- Global Disparities in Climate Response: Courtney Howard, Vice-Chair of the Global Climate and Health Alliance, shared her experiences from Canada, where wildfires resulted in the evacuation of 70% of the population in 2023. “This situation was costly, even for a wealthy nation. Developing countries need financial assistance to address such disasters,” she emphasized. Howard criticized the allocation of funds, stating that while large corporations receive substantial subsidies, health care funding remains inadequate.
- Children’s Health at Risk: Enkhun Byambadorj, Co-Founder of Breathe Mongolia, raised concerns about children’s lung health, noting that urban children have 40% lower lung capacity compared to their rural peers. “The air we breathe is a societal choice, but it’s detrimental to our children’s future,” he stated.
