Air pollution concerns more than just Vietnam

On the morning of April 24, the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment (MAE) in coordination with the Ministry of Health, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the World Health Organization (WHO) held the National Scientific Conference on Combatting Air Pollution and Improving Air Quality in Vietnam.

Children among the most vulnerable groups

Providing updates on the health and socio-economic impacts of air pollution, Mr. Sandro Demaio, a medical officer from WHO, highlighted that the annual exposure to fine particulate matter PM2.5 concentrations in cities around the world between 2010 and 2019 remained extremely high, averaging 40 μg/m³, compared to the WHO guideline of just 5 μg/m³.

Air pollution causes numerous acute and chronic health conditions, including respiratory diseases, cardiovascular disorders, metabolic syndromes, as well as brain damage and mental health issues. Therefore, air quality control must be approached comprehensively not only from a medical perspective but also in relation to social factors, quality of life, public health, and especially equity in access to a clean and healthy living environment.

“Even at low levels of exposure, air pollution has a significant impact on human health,” Mr. Sandro Demaio emphasized.

In addition, air pollution poses serious risks to children’s health, as they are more vulnerable than adults. Early exposure to polluted air can lead to delayed physical development, psychological and behavioral disorders, chronic illnesses, asthma, childhood cancer, and reduced lung function, even at low levels of exposure.

According to Mr. Demaio, at the current pace, it will be difficult to meet the targets set out in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). To truly protect human health and the living environment, air pollution interventions need to be intensified by a factor of 7 to 9.

Public awareness of air pollution has become more pronounced

According to UNDP specialist in Vietnam, Mr. David Payne, air pollution causes severe global damage, with economic losses reaching up to USD 6 trillion annually and a 5% reduction in global GDP due to its impact on health, productivity, and life expectancy. 

According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), super pollutants - also known as short-lived climate pollutants, are identified as the cause of half of the current global temperature rise. It is estimated that up to 85% of global air pollution originates from the burning of fossil fuels and biomass. (National Center for Biotechnology Information, 2017). 

"Reducing air pollution is directly linked to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)," Mr. David stated, adding that controlling air pollution not only promotes progress in health, climate, and economic development goals, but also contributes to reducing social inequalities. Investing in clean air is a strategic move that brings comprehensive benefits. Only 9% of countries have ambient air quality standards for PM2.5 that meet World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines.

Moreover, the public is increasingly concerned about the impact of air pollution on health, especially during the winter season, when pollution levels tend to be higher. According to surveys, at least 50% of residents in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and surrounding areas feel the need to wear masks to protect themselves from polluted air.

Several UNDP initiatives have improved environmental quality in major cities worldwide by applying technologies such as artificial intelligent (AI) and remote sensing to monitor air quality. The organization has developed a case study on Beijing’s Clean Air Action Plan to share best practices and encourage similar actions in other countries.

To achieve clean air for all, UNDP recommends strengthening air quality governance and calls for strong public participation.

Asia, home to 61% of the world’s population, currently emits 59% of global CO2 and relies on coal for 43% of its energy consumption. The region is facing numerous long-term impacts from air pollution, affecting not only physical health but also mental and behavioral well-being. According to OpenAQ, 36% of countries, representing nearly one billion people, are not currently monitoring their air quality. Most of these countries are low-income or lower-income countries.