In a stark revelation, it has been disclosed that all but one of the 100 cities with the world's worst air pollution in the preceding year were situated in Asia, Helen Regan reported for CNN, emphasizing the profound impact of the climate crisis on air quality, posing significant health risks to billions globally.
India's air quality exceeds the World Health Organization's guidelines by over 10 times.
The report by IQAir revealed that 83 of these cities were located in India, with air quality exceeding the World Health Organization's guidelines by over 10 times. The study focused on fine particulate matter, particularly PM2.5, known for its severe health implications.
Alarmingly, only 9% of the over 7,800 cities analyzed globally met WHO's air quality standards, stipulating an average annual PM2.5 level not surpassing 5 micrograms per cubic meter.
IQAir Global CEO Frank Hammes underscored the pervasive influence of air pollution across various aspects of life, estimating its potential to reduce individuals' lifespan by three to six years in the most polluted regions.
PM2.5, originating from sources like fossil fuel combustion, dust storms, and wildfires, poses significant health risks, including respiratory illnesses and cognitive impairment in children, upon inhalation.
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