From March 24 to 28, 2025, Cartagena, Colombia, will host the Global Conference on Air Pollution and Health. Ministers, experts and organizations will gather to address urgent solutions to this global health crisis. The event seeks to drive concrete actions to reduce pollution and its impact on public health. This is Beirut takes a closer look at the key challenges and goals of this pivotal meeting for the future of our planet.
The Global Conference on Air Pollution and Health is taking place from March 24 to 28, 2025, in Cartagena, Colombia. Co-hosted by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Colombian government, the event focuses on concrete actions to ensure clean air, expand access to clean energy, and tackle climate change.
With 90% of the world’s population exposed to polluted air, this conference comes at a critical time. Each year, air pollution claims 7 million lives and affects millions more worldwide.
Bringing together ministers of health, environment and energy, public health experts, and key players from sectors such as energy, transport, industry and waste management, the conference aims to unite experts and citizens in driving urgent and effective solutions to this global health and environmental crisis.
Conference Priorities
The conference aims to reduce air pollution-related deaths by 50% by 2040 as part of a broader global effort to lessen the health toll of pollution.
A key priority is the shift to renewable energy, essential for reducing dependence on polluting sources. The conference will also highlight the need for sustainable public transportation to curb vehicle emissions and promote greener alternatives.
Expanding access to clean energy for cooking and healthcare infrastructure remains a major challenge. This initiative seeks to protect vulnerable populations, particularly in rural areas, by providing safe and sustainable energy solutions.
Finally, establishing low-emission zones in cities will be crucial for improving urban air quality and creating healthier living environments. The conference will bring together 750 stakeholders in person and 10,000 online to drive meaningful action.
A Threat to Health and the Planet
Air pollution poses a serious risk to public health, contributing to respiratory diseases, cardiovascular conditions and cancer. Children, the elderly and those in heavily polluted areas are particularly vulnerable.
Beyond its health impact, air pollution accelerates climate change by increasing greenhouse gas emissions. It disrupts ecosystems, threatens biodiversity, and depletes essential natural resources, jeopardizing the planet’s ecological balance.
Its effects extend beyond physical health – research has linked air pollution to mental health disorders, cognitive decline, and even conditions like diabetes.
However, political and economic challenges remain. Some countries, including the United States, have limited involvement, and large-scale solutions require both significant funding and strong political commitment to drive real change.
The Critical Role of Healthcare Professionals
Healthcare professionals are at the forefront of the fight against air pollution, raising awareness among the public and policymakers about its devastating health effects. Their expertise is essential in shaping policies that reduce pollution-related health risks and recognize it as a global health priority.
Beyond advocacy, they push for concrete policy changes, emphasizing the need for sustainable solutions to improve air quality, safeguard communities, and lower the economic burden of pollution-related diseases.
Global mobilization is also key. More than 47 million healthcare professionals and NGOs have backed a call to action, urging governments to recognize air pollution as a global health emergency.
As health and environmental challenges grow more urgent, the Global Conference on Air Pollution and Health represents a turning point. Every decision made will be a step toward a cleaner, healthier and more sustainable future.
Comments