On September 7, 2024, the world will come together to observe the 5th annual International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies. Established by the United Nations (UN), this day is dedicated to raising awareness about the critical importance of clean air in building a sustainable future.
The 2024 theme, “Invest in #CleanAirNow,” encourages global action to combat air pollution, one of the leading health and environmental challenges today.
Why the International Day of Clean Air Matters
- The United Nations initiated this day to encourage global action to address the health and environmental impacts of air pollution.
- The 2024 observance marks the 5th anniversary, underscoring the need for continued efforts to improve air quality.
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2024 Theme: “Invest in #CleanAirNow”
The theme calls for immediate investments and collaboration across sectors to reduce air pollution. It emphasizes:
- Building a global community committed to tackling air pollution.
- The need for stronger partnerships between countries, organizations, and individuals.
- Increasing investment to ensure a sustainable and prosperous future for the planet.
Key Health and Environmental Concerns
- Air pollution is a leading cause of premature death, responsible for 8.1 million deaths annually, including 700,000 children under 5.
- 99% of humanity breathes polluted air, causing severe health conditions like stroke, heart disease, and lung cancer.
- By 2050, outdoor air pollution could lead to a 50% increase in premature deaths.
Economic Impact of Air Pollution
- Reducing air pollution is not just about health but also about economic benefits:
- A 20% reduction in PM2.5 levels can boost employment by 16% and productivity by 33%.
- Cutting methane emissions could result in savings of USD 4 to 33 billion by reducing crop losses.
- Addressing super-pollutants could prevent 0.5°C of global warming by 2050, benefiting food security.
Global Response: BreatheLife Campaign and Partnerships
- The BreatheLife Campaign, supported by major organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO), the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and the World Bank, has been instrumental in encouraging cities and nations to act.
- The campaign integrates public health and climate change solutions, fostering partnerships at local, national, and international levels.
Why September 7 Matters
On September 7, the global community unites to address air pollution, which affects 99% of the world’s population. Each year, over 8 million premature deaths are attributed to air pollution, a crisis that costs USD 8.1 trillion annually in health damages. The observance serves as a reminder of the shared responsibility we have in protecting the air we breathe.
Significant Events Leading Up to September 7, 2024
- On September 5, 2024, the UNEP launched the Air Quality Management Exchange Platform (AQMx) to assist national and city-level air quality managers.
- A webinar was held on August 28, 2024, focusing on improving urban air quality in African cities through sustainable waste management.
Swachh Vayu Survekshan (SVS) Awards 2024: Celebrating India’s Progress
- The SVS Awards were presented during the International Day of Clean Air celebrations in India, recognizing cities that have shown significant progress in reducing air pollution under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP).
- Winning Cities:
- Category 1 (Population over 10 Lakhs): 1st – Surat (Gujarat), 2nd – Jabalpur (Madhya Pradesh), 3rd – Agra (Uttar Pradesh).
- Category 2 (Population between 3-10 Lakhs): 1st – Firozabad (Uttar Pradesh), 2nd – Amravati (Maharashtra), 3rd – Jhansi (Uttar Pradesh).
- Category 3 (Population under 3 Lakhs): 1st – Raebareli (Uttar Pradesh), 2nd – Nalgonda (Telangana), 3rd – Nalagarh (Himachal Pradesh).
Air Pollution Crisis: Two-Fold Challenge
- Health Impact: Air pollutants contribute to one-third of deaths from stroke, lung cancer, and chronic respiratory diseases.
- Climate Impact: Short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs) not only affect health but also contribute to global warming.
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Conclusion: Act Now for Clean Air on September 7
The International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies on September 7 serves as a vital reminder that protecting our air is a shared responsibility. By investing in #CleanAirNow, we can create a healthier, more sustainable future for everyone.
FAQs
What is the International Day on September 7?
September 7 is observed as the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies, which focuses on raising awareness about the importance of clean air and the need to improve air quality worldwide.
What is the theme of the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies 7 September?
The theme for the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies 2024 is “Together for Clean Air”, emphasizing global collaboration in addressing air pollution and its impact on health and the environment.
What is the theme for the World Clean Air Day 2024?
The World Clean Air Day 2024 theme is “Together for Clean Air”, encouraging collective action from governments, communities, and individuals to promote cleaner, healthier air worldwide.
What is special on 7 September 2024?
September 7, 2024, marks the celebration of the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies, an important day dedicated to raising awareness and driving action to combat air pollution, which affects the health of millions globally.
What is the meaning of Blue Sky Day?
Blue Sky Day refers to the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies, celebrated on September 7, to highlight the importance of clear, unpolluted skies, which symbolize the goal of reducing air pollution.
What is Blue Sky Concept?
The Blue Sky Concept generally refers to creating solutions with endless possibilities, particularly in a clean and pollution-free environment. In environmental discussions, it emphasizes achieving and maintaining clean air and a healthy atmosphere.
What is the significance of 7 September?
September 7 is significant because it is the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies, a day dedicated to raising awareness about air pollution and encouraging global actions to improve air quality for a sustainable future.