The World Health Organization strengthened its air quality guidelines on Wednesday, saying air pollution was now one of the biggest environmental threats to human health, causing seven million premature deaths a year.

It said urgent action was needed to reduce exposure to air pollution, ranking its burden of disease on a par with smoking and unhealthy eating.

"WHO has adjusted almost all the air quality guideline levels downwards, warning that exceeding the new... levels is associated with significant risks to health," it said.

"Adhering to them could save millions of lives."

The guidelines aim to protect people from the adverse effects of air pollution and are used by governments as a reference for legally-binding standards.

The UN health agency last issued air quality guidelines, or AQGs, in 2005, which had a significant impact on pollution abatement policies worldwide.

However, the WHO said in the 16 years since, a much stronger body of evidence had emerged, showing how air pollution impacts on health at lower concentrations than previously understood.

"The accumulated evidence is sufficient to justify actions to reduce population exposure to key air pollutants, not only in particular countries or regions but on a global scale," the organisation said.

Southeast Asia hard-hit

The new guidelines come just in time for the COP26 global climate summit held in Glasgow from October 31 to November 12.

The WHO said that alongside climate change, air pollution was one of the biggest environmental threats to human health. Improving air quality would enhance climate change mitigation efforts, and vice versa, it said.

The WHO's new guidelines recommend air quality levels for six pollutants, including ozone, nitrogen dioxide, sulphur dioxide and carbon monoxide.

The other two are PM10 and PM2.5 — particulate matter equal or smaller than 10 and 2.5 microns in diameter.

Both are capable of penetrating deep into the lungs but research shows PM2.5 can even enter the bloodstream, primarily resulting in cardiovascular and respiratory problems, but also affecting other organs, said the WHO.

In response, the PM2.5 guideline level has been halved.

In 2019, more than 90 percent of the world's population lived in areas where concentrations exceeded the 2005 AQG for long-term PM2.5 exposure. Southeast Asia is the worst-affected region.

Premature deaths

"Air pollution is a threat to health in all countries, but it hits people in low- and middle-income countries the hardest," said WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

The WHO said that while air quality had markedly improved since the 1990s in high-income countries, the global toll in deaths and lost years of healthy life had barely declined, as air quality had generally deteriorated in most other countries, in line with their economic development.

"Every year, exposure to air pollution is estimated to cause seven million premature deaths and result in the loss of millions more healthy years of life," the WHO said.

In children, this could include reduced lung growth and function, respiratory infections and aggravated asthma.

In adults, ischaemic heart disease — also called coronary heart disease — and stroke are the most common causes of premature death attributable to outdoor air pollution.

Evidence is also emerging of other effects such as diabetes and neurodegenerative conditions, the organisation said.

The WHO said the burden of disease attributable to air pollution was "on a par with other major global health risks such as unhealthy diet and tobacco smoking".

The World Health Organization strengthened its air quality guidelines on Wednesday, saying air pollution was now one of the biggest environmental threats to human health, causing seven million premature deaths a year.

The World Health Organization strengthened its air quality guidelines on Wednesday, saying air pollution was now one of the biggest environmental threats to human health, causing seven million premature deaths a year. It said urgent action was needed to reduce exposure to air pollution, ranking its burden of disease on a par with smoking and unhealthy eating. "WHO has adjusted almost all the air quality guideline levels downwards, warning that exceeding the new... levels is associated with significant risks to health," it said. "Adhering to them could save millions of lives." The guidelines aim to protect people from the adverse effects of air pollution and are used by governments as a reference for legally-binding standards. The UN health agency last issued air quality guidelines, or AQGs, in 2005, which had a significant impact on pollution abatement policies worldwide. However, the WHO said in the 16 years since, a much stronger body of evidence had emerged, showing how air pollution impacts on health at lower concentrations than previously understood. "The accumulated evidence is sufficient to justify actions to reduce population exposure to key air pollutants, not only in particular countries or regions but on a global scale," the organisation said. Southeast Asia hard-hit The new guidelines come just in time for the COP26 global climate summit held in Glasgow from October 31 to November 12. The WHO said that alongside climate change, air pollution was one of the biggest environmental threats to human health. Improving air quality would enhance climate change mitigation efforts, and vice versa, it said. The WHO's new guidelines recommend air quality levels for six pollutants, including ozone, nitrogen dioxide, sulphur dioxide and carbon monoxide. The other two are PM10 and PM2.5 — particulate matter equal or smaller than 10 and 2.5 microns in diameter. Both are capable of penetrating deep into the lungs but research shows PM2.5 can even enter the bloodstream, primarily resulting in cardiovascular and respiratory problems, but also affecting other organs, said the WHO. In response, the PM2.5 guideline level has been halved. In 2019, more than 90 percent of the world's population lived in areas where concentrations exceeded the 2005 AQG for long-term PM2.5 exposure. Southeast Asia is the worst-affected region. Premature deaths "Air pollution is a threat to health in all countries, but it hits people in low- and middle-income countries the hardest," said WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. The WHO said that while air quality had markedly improved since the 1990s in high-income countries, the global toll in deaths and lost years of healthy life had barely declined, as air quality had generally deteriorated in most other countries, in line with their economic development. "Every year, exposure to air pollution is estimated to cause seven million premature deaths and result in the loss of millions more healthy years of life," the WHO said. In children, this could include reduced lung growth and function, respiratory infections and aggravated asthma. In adults, ischaemic heart disease — also called coronary heart disease — and stroke are the most common causes of premature death attributable to outdoor air pollution. Evidence is also emerging of other effects such as diabetes and neurodegenerative conditions, the organisation said. The WHO said the burden of disease attributable to air pollution was "on a par with other major global health risks such as unhealthy diet and tobacco smoking".

Air pollution kills 7 million people per year, estimates WHO;  issues new guidelines

32 Indonesians have won a lawsuit against their President Joko Widodo. A court in Jakarta has found Widodo & 7 other govt officials guilty of negligence over air pollution. Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: 32 Indonesians win lawsuit against Joko Widodo

In a first, a Jakarta court has ruled that the Indonesian government has failed to uphold citizens’ right to clean air.<o:p></o:p>

The landmark judgment has held the Indonesian government responsible for the smog that has been covering the blue skies of the city recently.<o:p></o:p>

This decision has come two years after 32 citizens of the capital city Jakarta filed a legal lawsuit against the Indonesian President Joko Widodo, Jakarta governor, three cabinet minister and two provincial leaders.

<o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/world-ozone-day-ozone-layer-critical-for-survival-of-life-on-earth-413579">WATCH |</a></o:p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/world-ozone-day-ozone-layer-critical-for-survival-of-life-on-earth-413579/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In its ruling, the court said the Indonesian government is guilty of committing ‘unlawful acts’ and have failed to impose measures to control rising air pollution in the capital city.<o:p></o:p>

"We hope all defendants accept this verdict, because they also live here," Alghiffari Aqsa, the lawyer for the plaintiffs said. "We hope that they abide by this verdict by executing all points through their action and strategic planning."<o:p></o:p>

Citizens have accused the government of being negligent in managing Jakarta’s air pollution. This negligence, citizens claim, have resulted in people struggling with asthma, skin allergies and many other problems.<o:p></o:p>

"Not all of us have the same sensitivities, but there are those experiencing health problems related to the dirty air we breathe," Leonard Simanjuntak, country director for Greenpeace Indonesia said.<o:p></o:p>

In a first, a Jakarta court has ruled that the Indonesian government has failed to uphold citizens’ right to clean air. The landmark judgment has held the Indonesian government responsible for the smog that has been covering the blue skies of the city recently.

In a first, a Jakarta court has ruled that the Indonesian government has failed to uphold citizens’ right to clean air. The landmark judgment has held the Indonesian government responsible for the smog that has been covering the blue skies of the city recently. This decision has come two years after 32 citizens of the capital city Jakarta filed a legal lawsuit against the Indonesian President Joko Widodo, Jakarta governor, three cabinet minister and two provincial leaders. WATCH | In its ruling, the court said the Indonesian government is guilty of committing ‘unlawful acts’ and have failed to impose measures to control rising air pollution in the capital city. "We hope all defendants accept this verdict, because they also live here," Alghiffari Aqsa, the lawyer for the plaintiffs said. "We hope that they abide by this verdict by executing all points through their action and strategic planning." Citizens have accused the government of being negligent in managing Jakarta’s air pollution. This negligence, citizens claim, have resulted in people struggling with asthma, skin allergies and many other problems. "Not all of us have the same sensitivities, but there are those experiencing health problems related to the dirty air we breathe," Leonard Simanjuntak, country director for Greenpeace Indonesia said.

Right to breathe: Jakarta locals win battle against Indonesia government for clean air

According to a new study, being overweight is caused not just by a lack of exercise or a poor diet, but also by being exposed to excessive amounts of air pollution.

Air pollution has been linked to obesity in studies all around the world, but this is the first time a new study in the country has proven how high levels of air pollution might contribute to weight gain.

This is also one of the first studies in India among teenage school children to reveal a strong correlation between obesity and asthma, as well as the possibility that air pollution plays a role in both.&nbsp;

Obese children had a 79 per cent higher likelihood of having asthma, according to the study.

This link was strongest in Delhi, which has hazardous air quality year after year.&nbsp;

The Lung Care Foundation studied 3,157 students from 12 schools in Delhi, as well as the southern Indian cities of Kottayam and Mysuru, which have better air than Delhi.

It was discovered that 39.8% of children in Delhi were overweight, compared to 16.4% in Kottayam and Mysuru.

According to the study, this aligns "extremely well" with the reported particulate matter (PM2.5) levels in these cities, which are harmful microscopic contaminants in the air.

Delhi is one of the world's most polluted cities.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

According to a new study, being overweight is caused not just by a lack of exercise or a poor diet, but also by being exposed to excessive amounts of air pollution.

According to a new study, being overweight is caused not just by a lack of exercise or a poor diet, but also by being exposed to excessive amounts of air pollution. Air pollution has been linked to obesity in studies all around the world, but this is the first time a new study in the country has proven how high levels of air pollution might contribute to weight gain. This is also one of the first studies in India among teenage school children to reveal a strong correlation between obesity and asthma, as well as the possibility that air pollution plays a role in both. Obese children had a 79 per cent higher likelihood of having asthma, according to the study. This link was strongest in Delhi, which has hazardous air quality year after year. The Lung Care Foundation studied 3,157 students from 12 schools in Delhi, as well as the southern Indian cities of Kottayam and Mysuru, which have better air than Delhi. It was discovered that 39.8% of children in Delhi were overweight, compared to 16.4% in Kottayam and Mysuru. According to the study, this aligns "extremely well" with the reported particulate matter (PM2.5) levels in these cities, which are harmful microscopic contaminants in the air. Delhi is one of the world's most polluted cities. (With inputs from agencies)

Air pollution can make children overweight, increase the risk of developing asthma

A group of scientists have claimed that more exposure to air pollution would directly lead to increased mental health issues.<o:p></o:p>

The research was conducted on nearly 13,000 people living in London. After carefully studying the data, experts found out that there is an 18 per cent increase in the risk of people needing medical treatment in hospitals and 32 per cent increase in the risk of people requiring community-based treatment if there is even a small increase in exposure to nitrogen dioxide.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/science/prolonged-exposure-to-air-pollution-can-cause-anosmia-study-388567" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/science/prolonged-exposure-to-air-pollution-can-cause-anosmia-study-388567&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj046-QrtHyAhVDzDgGHRRXCUQQFjABegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2cNwgMt2lZIKntqIVA5lnQ" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/science/prolonged-exposure-to-air-pollution-can-cause-anosmia-study-388567" target="_blank">Prolonged exposure to air&nbsp;pollution&nbsp;can cause 'anosmia': Study</a>

<o:p></o:p>

"Air pollution is modifiable, and on a big scale as well, reducing population-level exposure,"&nbsp;said Joanne Newbury, of the University of Bristol, part of the research team. "We know there are interventions that can be used, such as expanding low-emission zones.&nbsp;Mental health&nbsp;interventions at the individual level are actually quite difficult."<o:p></o:p>

This study can be assumed to be relevant for majority of the developed cities in first world countries, especially those dealing with increased air pollution.<o:p></o:p>

Experts studied the frequency of hospital admissions and people visiting community doctors and compared it with increase in air pollution level. Small increases in air pollution can lead to severe increase in depression and anxiety levels, especially in developed countries.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/study-says-ocean-surface-climates-may-disappear-by-2100-408799">Study says ocean surface climates may disappear by 2100</a></o:p>

The study also pointed out that increased dirty air is related to increased number of suicide cases, and children who grow up in polluted areas face the danger of developing mental disorders.<o:p></o:p>

Additionally, increased air pollution can also decrease intelligence level and cause more cases of dementia.<o:p></o:p>

Researchers have suggested that even a small reduction in even one pollutant alone could lead to a decrease in mental health related illness.<o:p></o:p>

"Identifying modifiable risk factors for illness severity and relapse could inform early intervention efforts and reduce the human suffering and high economic costs caused by long-term chronic mental illness," the researchers said.<o:p></o:p>

A group of scientists have claimed that more exposure to air pollution would directly lead to increased mental health issues. The research was conducted on nearly 13,000 people living in London.

A group of scientists have claimed that more exposure to air pollution would directly lead to increased mental health issues. The research was conducted on nearly 13,000 people living in London. After carefully studying the data, experts found out that there is an 18 per cent increase in the risk of people needing medical treatment in hospitals and 32 per cent increase in the risk of people requiring community-based treatment if there is even a small increase in exposure to nitrogen dioxide. Also read | Prolonged exposure to air pollution can cause 'anosmia': Study "Air pollution is modifiable, and on a big scale as well, reducing population-level exposure," said Joanne Newbury, of the University of Bristol, part of the research team. "We know there are interventions that can be used, such as expanding low-emission zones. Mental health interventions at the individual level are actually quite difficult." This study can be assumed to be relevant for majority of the developed cities in first world countries, especially those dealing with increased air pollution. Experts studied the frequency of hospital admissions and people visiting community doctors and compared it with increase in air pollution level. Small increases in air pollution can lead to severe increase in depression and anxiety levels, especially in developed countries. Also read | Study says ocean surface climates may disappear by 2100 The study also pointed out that increased dirty air is related to increased number of suicide cases, and children who grow up in polluted areas face the danger of developing mental disorders. Additionally, increased air pollution can also decrease intelligence level and cause more cases of dementia. Researchers have suggested that even a small reduction in even one pollutant alone could lead to a decrease in mental health related illness. "Identifying modifiable risk factors for illness severity and relapse could inform early intervention efforts and reduce the human suffering and high economic costs caused by long-term chronic mental illness," the researchers said.

Air pollution leads to increased mental illness and decreases intelligence: Study

After a drop last year, global greenhouse gas emissions will grow again this year and next year, putting 2023 on course to be the year with the greatest levels of carbon dioxide output in human history, according to the International Energy Agency.&nbsp;

The IEA predicted in its latest report monitoring pandemic recovery efforts worldwide that governments had provided $380 billion in clean energy support out of a total of $16 trillion in pandemic support.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-cities-witnessed-spike-in-no2-pollution-between-april-2020-and-2021-report-396661">Also read | Indian cities witnessed spike in NO2 pollution between April 2020 and 2021: Report</a> 
 
Even if all of these steps were implemented on time, the world would still be “far from what is required to put the world on a road to net-zero emissions by mid-century,” according to the report.

It isn't even enough to keep global emissions from reaching new highs, according to IEA's executive director.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-fatal-flooding-in-western-germany-398443">In Pics | Fatal flooding in Western Germany</a>

Such an increase would put the Paris climate agreement's goals out of reach, as experts have warned that emissions must be cut in half this decade if global temperature rises are to be kept at 1.5 degrees Celsius, beyond which the effects of climate breakdown will destroy huge areas of the globe.&nbsp;

Watch | Gravitas Plus: Who is responsible for Climate Change?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-plus-who-is-responsible-for-climate-change-378253/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Watch | Greenhouse gases hit new record despite lockdowns

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/greenhouse-gases-hit-new-record-despite-lockdowns-326577/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Governments all across the world have pledged to promote "green" recovery and use pandemic assistance measures to accelerate the transition away from fossil fuels.

However, studies have regularly concluded that such spending falls well short of what is required to keep global warming from reaching catastrophic levels.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

After a drop last year, global greenhouse gas emissions will grow again this year and next year, putting 2023 on course to be the year with the greatest levels of carbon dioxide output in human history, according to the International Energy Agency.

After a drop last year, global greenhouse gas emissions will grow again this year and next year, putting 2023 on course to be the year with the greatest levels of carbon dioxide output in human history, according to the International Energy Agency. The IEA predicted in its latest report monitoring pandemic recovery efforts worldwide that governments had provided $380 billion in clean energy support out of a total of $16 trillion in pandemic support. Also read | Indian cities witnessed spike in NO2 pollution between April 2020 and 2021: Report Even if all of these steps were implemented on time, the world would still be “far from what is required to put the world on a road to net-zero emissions by mid-century,” according to the report. It isn't even enough to keep global emissions from reaching new highs, according to IEA's executive director. In Pics | Fatal flooding in Western Germany Such an increase would put the Paris climate agreement's goals out of reach, as experts have warned that emissions must be cut in half this decade if global temperature rises are to be kept at 1.5 degrees Celsius, beyond which the effects of climate breakdown will destroy huge areas of the globe. Watch | Gravitas Plus: Who is responsible for Climate Change? Watch | Greenhouse gases hit new record despite lockdowns Governments all across the world have pledged to promote "green" recovery and use pandemic assistance measures to accelerate the transition away from fossil fuels. However, studies have regularly concluded that such spending falls well short of what is required to keep global warming from reaching catastrophic levels. (With inputs from agencies)

Greenhouse gas emissions are on track to set a new record in 2023: IEA

NO2 (nitrogen dioxide) pollution has increased in all eight of India's most populated cities, according to Greenpeace India's satellite observation-based study.&nbsp;

This study was a direct comparison of NO2 levels of April 2020 and April 2021, thus juxtaposing the total lockdown month with a partial normalcy month. NO2 is a dangerous air pollutant that is released via vehicle emissions, power generation, and industrial processes.&nbsp;

The satellite observations of NO2 analyzed in this study are monthly averages of measurements made by the Tropomi sensor on board the Sentinel-5P satellite, which has been operating since February 2018 (Copernicus, 2018).

Their data claims that NO2 pollution in Chennai increased by 94% in a direct comparison between April 2020 and April 2021. The weather had only little contribution to this change.&nbsp;

Whereas, in Delhi, NO2 was higher by 125%, in Mumbai, 52% higher, Hyderabad by 69%, Bengaluru by 90%, Kolkata by 11%, Jaipur by 47% and Lucknow by 32% in April 2021, than in the same month of the previous year.

Specifically on North Chennai(Manali station), their data says that (in 2019) the region recorded unacceptable pollution levels for 119 days. It also states that while emissions from 38 red category industries including thermal power plants, petro-chemical industries, ports are the reason for North Chennai’s pollution, vehicular pollution contributes more to Central and South Chennai’s woes.

Prabhakaran Veeraarasu, Environmental Engineer, from the NGO Poovulagin Nanbargal said that Chennai’s data was a stark reminder to have a demographic, sectoral approach to address Chennai's pollution. “Shifting towards decentralised renewable energy, developing public transport infrastructure, encouraging non-motor transport and ensuring last mile connectivity can be our targets to reduce vehicular pollution in Chennai” he added. 
 
<img alt="satellite observations of NO2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e4b99e13-65b3-4ece-8fc4-d8fb90d361b0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/NO2%20levels%20graph.png" />

The report infers that India’s cities witnessing clean air in April 2020 (during the Lockdown) was an unintended consequence, that led to people breathing clean air and seeing clear skies. It suggests that the disruption caused by the pandemic is a case to transition to cleaner, equitable and sustainable decentralised energy sources such as rooftop solar and clean and sustainable mobility must be central to recovery efforts across cities. “The recovery from the pandemic must not come at the expense of a return to previous levels of air pollution,” said Avinash Chanchal, Senior Climate Campaigner, Greenpeace India.

He added that fossil-fuel dependent private vehicles and industries are the major contributors of NO2 pollution, thus urging Governments to initiate the transition from privately owned vehicles to an efficient, clean and safe public transport system that is run on clean energy, follows Covid-19 safety protocols.

NO2 (nitrogen dioxide) pollution has increased in all eight of India's most populated cities, according to Greenpeace India's satellite observation-based study. This study was a direct comparison of NO2 levels of April 2020 and April 2021, thus juxtaposing the total lockdown month with a partial normalcy month.

NO2 (nitrogen dioxide) pollution has increased in all eight of India's most populated cities, according to Greenpeace India's satellite observation-based study. This study was a direct comparison of NO2 levels of April 2020 and April 2021, thus juxtaposing the total lockdown month with a partial normalcy month. NO2 is a dangerous air pollutant that is released via vehicle emissions, power generation, and industrial processes. The satellite observations of NO2 analyzed in this study are monthly averages of measurements made by the Tropomi sensor on board the Sentinel-5P satellite, which has been operating since February 2018 (Copernicus, 2018). Their data claims that NO2 pollution in Chennai increased by 94% in a direct comparison between April 2020 and April 2021. The weather had only little contribution to this change. Whereas, in Delhi, NO2 was higher by 125%, in Mumbai, 52% higher, Hyderabad by 69%, Bengaluru by 90%, Kolkata by 11%, Jaipur by 47% and Lucknow by 32% in April 2021, than in the same month of the previous year. Specifically on North Chennai(Manali station), their data says that (in 2019) the region recorded unacceptable pollution levels for 119 days. It also states that while emissions from 38 red category industries including thermal power plants, petro-chemical industries, ports are the reason for North Chennai’s pollution, vehicular pollution contributes more to Central and South Chennai’s woes. Prabhakaran Veeraarasu, Environmental Engineer, from the NGO Poovulagin Nanbargal said that Chennai’s data was a stark reminder to have a demographic, sectoral approach to address Chennai's pollution. “Shifting towards decentralised renewable energy, developing public transport infrastructure, encouraging non-motor transport and ensuring last mile connectivity can be our targets to reduce vehicular pollution in Chennai” he added. The report infers that India’s cities witnessing clean air in April 2020 (during the Lockdown) was an unintended consequence, that led to people breathing clean air and seeing clear skies. It suggests that the disruption caused by the pandemic is a case to transition to cleaner, equitable and sustainable decentralised energy sources such as rooftop solar and clean and sustainable mobility must be central to recovery efforts across cities. “The recovery from the pandemic must not come at the expense of a return to previous levels of air pollution,” said Avinash Chanchal, Senior Climate Campaigner, Greenpeace India. He added that fossil-fuel dependent private vehicles and industries are the major contributors of NO2 pollution, thus urging Governments to initiate the transition from privately owned vehicles to an efficient, clean and safe public transport system that is run on clean energy, follows Covid-19 safety protocols.

Indian cities witnessed spike in NO2 pollution between April 2020 and 2021: Report

Mission Sustainability: Population vs Planet- Biggest sustainability challenges climate change and air pollution.

Mission Sustainability: Population vs Planet | What are the biggest sustainability challenges?

A court in Jakarta is expected to deliver its verdict in a lawsuit that accuses the government of ignoring air pollution. WION's Palki Sharma tells you whether there is precedent for such lawsuits and what the residents are expecting from it.

Gravitas: Jakarta residents sue government over pollution

Fixing the blame for air pollution is not easy because multiple generations have contributed to it. So have neighbouring countries.

But in Indonesia, the people are clear about who is responsible: Their government.

A court in Jakarta is hearing a lawsuit against the Indonesian president and his ministers. It accuses them of ignoring air pollution and its health impacts.

Jakarta is an urban jungle. The suffocated capital is almost always below the layer of haze and smoke. There are people everywhere. Run-down apartments at every corner. And traffic. Lots of traffic!

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-jakarta-residents-sue-government-over-pollution-386379">Watch |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-jakarta-residents-sue-government-over-pollution-386379/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

For residents here, masks are a pre-pandemic thing. It's a shield against asthma, heart disease and stroke. Children are born into this toxic air. For them, diseases and allergies are never far away.

"I have a daughter who is 10 years old and she is one of the vulnerable children. She has allergies since she was born, and she's developed health issues since she started kindergarten. Everyday, her health condition is threatened by the increasing dirty air quality in Jakarta," says 42-year-old plaintiff and Jakarta resident Khalisah Khalid.

There are hundreds of parents like Khalisah in the city. Two years back, they decided enough was enough.

If the government wasn't hearing their pleas, it was time for a legal nudge. And that's exactly what they did: 32 citizens got together to sue the government.

The lawsuit spares no one, from the president to city council leaders. These citizens are suing their leaders for failing to give them clean air to breathe.

And it's not about striking a deal for compensations. Instead, the lawsuit focusses on fixing accountability.

"Even though we've suffered due to the negligence of the state to protect the rights of the people to live in a healthy and clean environment, we are not demanding compensation through the court. We are not fighting for the hospital costs we'd spent when my child was ill, but we want the government to enact regulations to ensure the people of this country, our children and generations to come, can be well protected from air pollution," says Khalisah Khalid.

Jakarta has been untouched by electric cars and renewable energy. It is very much a city from the 20th century.

There are coal plants for electricity. And diesel for cars.

The court verdict is expected soon. The outcome is anyone's guess. Mainly because such a lawsuit is unprecedented in Indonesia.

But globally, suing the government is common practice. In 2019, the South African government was sued for air pollution. In UK, Downing Street has been sued thrice. In India, a 9-year-old filed a lawsuit at the national green tribunal in 2017.

Most of these cases ended with a public rebuke. Nothing more.

And that's the problem with headline lawsuits. They fix the blame. But without punishment.

Fixing the blame for air pollution is not easy because multiple generations have contributed to it. So have neighbouring countries. But in Indonesia, the people are clear about who is responsible: Their government.

Fixing the blame for air pollution is not easy because multiple generations have contributed to it. So have neighbouring countries. But in Indonesia, the people are clear about who is responsible: Their government. A court in Jakarta is hearing a lawsuit against the Indonesian president and his ministers. It accuses them of ignoring air pollution and its health impacts. Jakarta is an urban jungle. The suffocated capital is almost always below the layer of haze and smoke. There are people everywhere. Run-down apartments at every corner. And traffic. Lots of traffic! Watch | For residents here, masks are a pre-pandemic thing. It's a shield against asthma, heart disease and stroke. Children are born into this toxic air. For them, diseases and allergies are never far away. "I have a daughter who is 10 years old and she is one of the vulnerable children. She has allergies since she was born, and she's developed health issues since she started kindergarten. Everyday, her health condition is threatened by the increasing dirty air quality in Jakarta," says 42-year-old plaintiff and Jakarta resident Khalisah Khalid. There are hundreds of parents like Khalisah in the city. Two years back, they decided enough was enough. If the government wasn't hearing their pleas, it was time for a legal nudge. And that's exactly what they did: 32 citizens got together to sue the government. The lawsuit spares no one, from the president to city council leaders. These citizens are suing their leaders for failing to give them clean air to breathe. And it's not about striking a deal for compensations. Instead, the lawsuit focusses on fixing accountability. "Even though we've suffered due to the negligence of the state to protect the rights of the people to live in a healthy and clean environment, we are not demanding compensation through the court. We are not fighting for the hospital costs we'd spent when my child was ill, but we want the government to enact regulations to ensure the people of this country, our children and generations to come, can be well protected from air pollution," says Khalisah Khalid. Jakarta has been untouched by electric cars and renewable energy. It is very much a city from the 20th century. There are coal plants for electricity. And diesel for cars. The court verdict is expected soon. The outcome is anyone's guess. Mainly because such a lawsuit is unprecedented in Indonesia. But globally, suing the government is common practice. In 2019, the South African government was sued for air pollution. In UK, Downing Street has been sued thrice. In India, a 9-year-old filed a lawsuit at the national green tribunal in 2017. Most of these cases ended with a public rebuke. Nothing more. And that's the problem with headline lawsuits. They fix the blame. But without punishment.

Indonesia: Citizens sue government over air pollution

In Cochabamba, west-central Bolivia, companies have teamed up to offer a completely green delivery service in one of South America's most polluted cities. Bolivian companies Quantium Motors, Targuet, QuraPlanet, and the Kangaroo Go app are working within a pollution-free delivery chain to become the first 100 percent green delivery service in the Andean country.

Goodbye pollution! Bolivian companies team up for fully eco-friendly deliveries

According to a research, the temporary rises in air pollution may impair memory and thinking in older men. &nbsp;

The scientists found that the men’s cognitive performance fell following rises in air pollution during the month before testing, even when peak levels remained below safety thresholds for toxic air set by the World Health Organization (WHO) and national regulators.&nbsp;

The findings build on growing evidence that exposure to fine particulate matter in the air, largely from road vehicles and industry, is harmful not only to the heart and lungs, but also to delicate neural tissues in the brain.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, According to another study, one in 15 lost pregnancies in South Asia is due to air pollution. The polluted air starts choking a baby even before birth. It causes miscarriages and foetal deaths.&nbsp;

The study says that nearly 350,000 failed pregnancies in South Asia can be attributed to air pollution and out of this, 67 per cent are in rural areas.&nbsp;

Wuhan virus has caused worldwide deaths, but vaccines are more than a ray of hope. However, another invisible killer is still on the prowl, an old enemy of humankind that is responsible for 1.6 million deaths each year. It has now been established as a key contributor in failed pregnancies.&nbsp;

According to a new study published in The Lancet Planetary Health, air pollution is leading to numerous stillbirths and miscarriages in South Asia.&nbsp;

It reveals that nearly 350,000 failed pregnancies in India, Pakistan and Bangladesh can be attributed to poor air quality.&nbsp;

Poor quality means the presence of PM2.5 particles, which are produced by farming, industrial activity, wood-burning and transport.&nbsp;

PM2.5 particles are harmful to all human beings but for an unborn baby, they can be lethal.&nbsp;

The survey indicates that over 34,197 women in South Asia have lost one pregnancy each due to bad air. &nbsp;

(With input from agencies)&nbsp;

According to a research, the temporary rises in air pollution may impair memory and thinking in older men. The scientists found that the men’s cognitive performance fell following rises in air pollution during the month before testing, even when peak levels remained below safety thresholds for toxic air set by the World Health Organization (WHO) and national regulators.

According to a research, the temporary rises in air pollution may impair memory and thinking in older men. The scientists found that the men’s cognitive performance fell following rises in air pollution during the month before testing, even when peak levels remained below safety thresholds for toxic air set by the World Health Organization (WHO) and national regulators. The findings build on growing evidence that exposure to fine particulate matter in the air, largely from road vehicles and industry, is harmful not only to the heart and lungs, but also to delicate neural tissues in the brain. Meanwhile, According to another study, one in 15 lost pregnancies in South Asia is due to air pollution. The polluted air starts choking a baby even before birth. It causes miscarriages and foetal deaths. The study says that nearly 350,000 failed pregnancies in South Asia can be attributed to air pollution and out of this, 67 per cent are in rural areas. Wuhan virus has caused worldwide deaths, but vaccines are more than a ray of hope. However, another invisible killer is still on the prowl, an old enemy of humankind that is responsible for 1.6 million deaths each year. It has now been established as a key contributor in failed pregnancies. According to a new study published in The Lancet Planetary Health, air pollution is leading to numerous stillbirths and miscarriages in South Asia. It reveals that nearly 350,000 failed pregnancies in India, Pakistan and Bangladesh can be attributed to poor air quality. Poor quality means the presence of PM2.5 particles, which are produced by farming, industrial activity, wood-burning and transport. PM2.5 particles are harmful to all human beings but for an unborn baby, they can be lethal. The survey indicates that over 34,197 women in South Asia have lost one pregnancy each due to bad air. (With input from agencies)

Study finds air pollution spikes may impair older men’s thinking 

A new study sheds light on the prevalence of pollutants in Indian cities. According to the British study published in the journal called “Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics”, hidden air pollutants are increasing in Indian cities.

These pollutants include fine particles known as PM2.5 along with nitrogen dioxide which are both hazardous to health. Scientists used data from satellites to scan the skies of cities everyday. They found that air pollutants are rapidly spreading in Indian cities like Kanpur and Delhi.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-air-pollution-could-make-you-blind-study-finds-359759/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The trends of pollution between 2005-2018 were taken into account by the researchers, who hailed from the University of Birmingham and UCL, including a team of contributors from Belgium, India, the UK, and Jamaica.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/science/continuous-exposure-to-pollution-can-cause-mental-illness-in-children-study-381381" hreflang="en">Continuous exposure to pollution can cause mental illness in children: Study</a>

Delhi already grapples with pollution every year as winter sets in the city, with a thick layer of smog covering the city sky year after year. In 2018, the World Health Organization had ranked Kanpur as the world’s most polluted city. According to researchers, the increase in PM2.5 and nitrogen dioxide levels in the country may be attributed to increasing vehicle ownership, industrialisation and the limited number of air pollution policies.

In addition, the scientists also found that the air pollutant formaldehyde was spotted in Delhi and Kanpur, along with London. The researchers juxtaposed data from Indian cities with the data of cities in the United Kingdom.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/science/light-pollution-from-satellites-space-waste-poses-risk-to-astronomy-374530" hreflang="en">Light pollution from satellites, space waste poses risk to astronomy</a>

"We wanted to demonstrate the utility of satellite observations to monitor city-wide air pollution in the UK where ground-based measurements are in abundance and in India where they are not. Our approach will be able to provide useful information about air quality trends in cities with limited surface monitoring capabilities. This is critical as the WHO estimates that outdoor air pollution causes 4.2 million deaths a year”, Karan Vohra, study lead author and PhD student at the University of Birmingham was quoted by ANI as saying.

(With inputs from agencies)

A new study sheds light on the prevalence of pollutants in Indian cities. According to the British study published in the journal called “Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics”, hidden air pollutants are increasing in Indian cities.

A new study sheds light on the prevalence of pollutants in Indian cities. According to the British study published in the journal called “Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics”, hidden air pollutants are increasing in Indian cities. These pollutants include fine particles known as PM2.5 along with nitrogen dioxide which are both hazardous to health. Scientists used data from satellites to scan the skies of cities everyday. They found that air pollutants are rapidly spreading in Indian cities like Kanpur and Delhi. The trends of pollution between 2005-2018 were taken into account by the researchers, who hailed from the University of Birmingham and UCL, including a team of contributors from Belgium, India, the UK, and Jamaica. Also read: Continuous exposure to pollution can cause mental illness in children: Study Delhi already grapples with pollution every year as winter sets in the city, with a thick layer of smog covering the city sky year after year. In 2018, the World Health Organization had ranked Kanpur as the world’s most polluted city. According to researchers, the increase in PM2.5 and nitrogen dioxide levels in the country may be attributed to increasing vehicle ownership, industrialisation and the limited number of air pollution policies. In addition, the scientists also found that the air pollutant formaldehyde was spotted in Delhi and Kanpur, along with London. The researchers juxtaposed data from Indian cities with the data of cities in the United Kingdom. Also read: Light pollution from satellites, space waste poses risk to astronomy "We wanted to demonstrate the utility of satellite observations to monitor city-wide air pollution in the UK where ground-based measurements are in abundance and in India where they are not. Our approach will be able to provide useful information about air quality trends in cities with limited surface monitoring capabilities. This is critical as the WHO estimates that outdoor air pollution causes 4.2 million deaths a year”, Karan Vohra, study lead author and PhD student at the University of Birmingham was quoted by ANI as saying. (With inputs from agencies)

Hidden air pollutants rising in Indian cities like Delhi and Kanpur, study finds

A new study reveals that Air Pollution could drive children to mental Illness.

Gravitas: Air Pollution & Mental Health

Nepal is experiencing its worst fire season in almost a decade as huge blazes rage across the country's forests. Air quality in the capital Kathmandu was ranked as the worst in the world on Tuesday.

Nepal hit by worst wildfires in almost a year, govt shuts schools

Sweden is planning to charge air carriers more based on how much they contribute to pollution. The government said that airlines will have to pay more if their aircraft cause more pollution during takeoff and landing.

The new measure will be implemented starting July and is essentially being perceived as a means to phase out planes that run on older technology and produce more waste, paving the way for airlines to commission newer and more efficient aircraft.

According to Sweden’s Ministry of Infrastructure, taking off and landing fees will be higher if a plane's impact on climate is higher, and fees will be reduced if the climate impact is lower.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/exclusive-sweden-congratulates-india-for-being-the-pharmacy-of-the-world-369362" hreflang="en">Exclusive: Sweden congratulates India for being the pharmacy of the world</a>

This marks the first such effort in the world to cut down on pollution caused by aircraft, with other countries expected to follow suit, especially in Europe. The plan is awaiting approval by Swedish parliament and will directly affect planes flying in and out of Arlanda airport in Stockholm, and Landvetter in Gothenburg.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/india-european-union-are-democratic-superpowers-sweden-pm-368352" hreflang="en">India, European Union are democratic superpowers: Sweden PM</a> 
 
The measure will also include planes that depend on bio fuels. The project is currently being fine-tuned, the government claims. Sweden has witnessed the oddest movement of all - the Flygskam whereby people were ‘shamed’ for flying too often, and urged to stop flying to lower carbon emissions.

Estimates by Swedish Railways posit that a single plane journey between Stockholm and Gothenburg - the country’s two biggest cities generates as much as carbon dioxide as 40,000 train journeys.

Sweden is planning to charge air carriers more based on how much they contribute to pollution. The government said that airlines will have to pay more if their aircraft cause more pollution during takeoff and landing.

Sweden is planning to charge air carriers more based on how much they contribute to pollution. The government said that airlines will have to pay more if their aircraft cause more pollution during takeoff and landing. The new measure will be implemented starting July and is essentially being perceived as a means to phase out planes that run on older technology and produce more waste, paving the way for airlines to commission newer and more efficient aircraft. According to Sweden’s Ministry of Infrastructure, taking off and landing fees will be higher if a plane's impact on climate is higher, and fees will be reduced if the climate impact is lower. Also read: Exclusive: Sweden congratulates India for being the pharmacy of the world This marks the first such effort in the world to cut down on pollution caused by aircraft, with other countries expected to follow suit, especially in Europe. The plan is awaiting approval by Swedish parliament and will directly affect planes flying in and out of Arlanda airport in Stockholm, and Landvetter in Gothenburg. Also read: India, European Union are democratic superpowers: Sweden PM The measure will also include planes that depend on bio fuels. The project is currently being fine-tuned, the government claims. Sweden has witnessed the oddest movement of all - the Flygskam whereby people were ‘shamed’ for flying too often, and urged to stop flying to lower carbon emissions. Estimates by Swedish Railways posit that a single plane journey between Stockholm and Gothenburg - the country’s two biggest cities generates as much as carbon dioxide as 40,000 train journeys.

Sweden to increase airport fees for planes that cause pollution

According to a report on the world's air quality, India's capital is the most polluted capital city in the world. The report also states that the COVID-19 pandemic emerged as a major factor in reducing air pollution in 2020.

Report: New Delhi was most polluted capital in the world in 2020

All Indian cities showed air quality improvements in 2020 owing to the Covid-19 impact compared to 2018, while 63 per cent saw improvements compared to 2019, said the 2020 World Air Quality Report on Tuesday that is based on PM2.5 data from 106 countries. 
 
In 2020, around 84 per cent of all monitored countries observed air quality improvements, largely due to global measures to slow the spread of COVID-19. 
 
Air quality improvements across major cities in 2020 compared to 2019 include Beijing (minus 11 per cent) Chicago (minus 13 per cent), Delhi (minus 15 per cent), London (minus 16 per cent), Paris (minus 17 per cent) and Seoul (minus 16 per cent). 
 
However, India continues to feature prominently at the top of the most polluted cities ranking, with 22 of the top 30 most polluted cities globally. 
 
The report by IQAir said in 2020, 86 per cent of the cities in China experienced cleaner air than the previous year. 
 
Despite this, Chinese residents are still exposed to PM2.5 levels more than three times the World Health Organization (WHO) annual guidelines. Hotan in northwestern China ranks as the world`s most polluted city, largely due to sandstorms exacerbated by climate change. 
 
Only 24 out of 106 monitored countries met the WHO annual guidelines for PM2.5 in 2020. 
 
The report says climate change continues to affect air quality. The year 2020 is tied with 2016 as the hottest year on record. Wildfires and sandstorms fueled by the warming climate led to extremely high pollution levels in California, South America, Siberia and Australia. 
 
South Asia is the most polluted region of the world with Bangladesh, India and Pakistan sharing 42 of the 50 most polluted cities worldwide. 
 
In 2020, about half of all European cities exceed the WHO`s target for annual PM2.5 pollution. The highest levels of PM2.5 pollution was found in Eastern and Southern Europe, with Bosnia Herzegovina, North Macedonia and Bulgaria taking the lead. 
 
"The year 2020 brought an unexpected dip in air pollution. In 2021, we will likely see an increase in air pollution due to human activity, again," said Frank Hammes, CEO of IQAir. 
 
"We hope this report will highlight that urgent action is both possible and necessary to combat air pollution, which remains the world`s greatest environmental health threat." 
 
"While many cities recorded temporary improvements in air quality due to lockdowns, the health impact of burning fossil fuels remained severe. Unfortunately, Delhi continued to be the most polluted capital city in the world in 2020. To see real, long-term improvements in air quality, governments must prioritize clean energy sources such as wind and solar and promote low cost, carbon neutral and accessible transport," said Avinash Chanchal, Climate Campaigner, Greenpeace India. 
 
"Many parts of the world experienced unprecedented, but short-lived, improvements in air quality in 2020, as restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic caused a steep drop in fossil fuel consumption," said Lauri Myllyvirta, lead analyst at the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), who also contributed to the report. 
 
"This improved air quality meant tens of thousands of avoided deaths from air pollution. By transitioning to clean energy and clean transport we can realize the same improvements in a sustained way."

All Indian cities showed air quality improvements in 2020 owing to the Covid-19 impact compared to 2018, while 63 per cent saw improvements compared to 2019, said the 2020 World Air Quality Report on Tuesday that is based on PM2.

All Indian cities showed air quality improvements in 2020 owing to the Covid-19 impact compared to 2018, while 63 per cent saw improvements compared to 2019, said the 2020 World Air Quality Report on Tuesday that is based on PM2.5 data from 106 countries. In 2020, around 84 per cent of all monitored countries observed air quality improvements, largely due to global measures to slow the spread of COVID-19. Air quality improvements across major cities in 2020 compared to 2019 include Beijing (minus 11 per cent) Chicago (minus 13 per cent), Delhi (minus 15 per cent), London (minus 16 per cent), Paris (minus 17 per cent) and Seoul (minus 16 per cent). However, India continues to feature prominently at the top of the most polluted cities ranking, with 22 of the top 30 most polluted cities globally. The report by IQAir said in 2020, 86 per cent of the cities in China experienced cleaner air than the previous year. Despite this, Chinese residents are still exposed to PM2.5 levels more than three times the World Health Organization (WHO) annual guidelines. Hotan in northwestern China ranks as the world`s most polluted city, largely due to sandstorms exacerbated by climate change. Only 24 out of 106 monitored countries met the WHO annual guidelines for PM2.5 in 2020. The report says climate change continues to affect air quality. The year 2020 is tied with 2016 as the hottest year on record. Wildfires and sandstorms fueled by the warming climate led to extremely high pollution levels in California, South America, Siberia and Australia. South Asia is the most polluted region of the world with Bangladesh, India and Pakistan sharing 42 of the 50 most polluted cities worldwide. In 2020, about half of all European cities exceed the WHO`s target for annual PM2.5 pollution. The highest levels of PM2.5 pollution was found in Eastern and Southern Europe, with Bosnia Herzegovina, North Macedonia and Bulgaria taking the lead. "The year 2020 brought an unexpected dip in air pollution. In 2021, we will likely see an increase in air pollution due to human activity, again," said Frank Hammes, CEO of IQAir. "We hope this report will highlight that urgent action is both possible and necessary to combat air pollution, which remains the world`s greatest environmental health threat." "While many cities recorded temporary improvements in air quality due to lockdowns, the health impact of burning fossil fuels remained severe. Unfortunately, Delhi continued to be the most polluted capital city in the world in 2020. To see real, long-term improvements in air quality, governments must prioritize clean energy sources such as wind and solar and promote low cost, carbon neutral and accessible transport," said Avinash Chanchal, Climate Campaigner, Greenpeace India. "Many parts of the world experienced unprecedented, but short-lived, improvements in air quality in 2020, as restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic caused a steep drop in fossil fuel consumption," said Lauri Myllyvirta, lead analyst at the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), who also contributed to the report. "This improved air quality meant tens of thousands of avoided deaths from air pollution. By transitioning to clean energy and clean transport we can realize the same improvements in a sustained way."

India's air quality improved in 2020, claims report

Beijing has been hit by the worst sandstorm of the decade. Some say it looks like the end of the world. WION's Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: Beijing hit by the decade's worst sandstorm

Sandstorm has landed the Chinese capital into worries. A massive sandstorm has combined with already high air pollution to turn the skies in Beijing an eerie orange.

Beijing suffers from 'hazardous' levels of pollution

In Pics: Global efforts not enough to tackle climate change, says UN

The air quality in the national capital once again went down to the "very poor" category on Thursday with the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) registered at 303.

According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), at 6 am, the concentrations of the particulate matter (PM) with a diameter of 10 and 2.5 microns stood at 277 in poor category and 124 in very poor category) respectively.

An AQI between 0-50 is considered good, 51-100 is satisfactory, 101-200 moderate, 201-300 poor, 301-400 very poor and 401-500 is marked as severe or hazardous.

"The overall Delhi air quality is in the Poor category as forecasted. Surface winds are low and forecasted to improve during the day. AQI is likely to marginally deteriorate tomorrow and likely to stay at the Poor to the lower end of the Very Poor category. An increase in wind speed and boundary layer height is forecasted from 26 February. This is likely to influence AQI positively and Poor AQI is forecasted on 26 and 27 February," SAFAR said in its bulletin.

SAFAR, in its health advisory, stated that people should avoid all physical activity outdoors and move activities indoors. It urged the asthmatics to keep medicines handy. Meanwhile, the air quality in Maharashtra`s Mumbai also deteriorated to the `poor` category from the `moderate` category.

The air quality in the national capital once again went down to the "very poor" category on Thursday with the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) registered at 303. According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), at 6 am, the concentrations of the particulate matter (PM) with a diameter of 10 and 2.

The air quality in the national capital once again went down to the "very poor" category on Thursday with the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) registered at 303. According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), at 6 am, the concentrations of the particulate matter (PM) with a diameter of 10 and 2.5 microns stood at 277 in poor category and 124 in very poor category) respectively. An AQI between 0-50 is considered good, 51-100 is satisfactory, 101-200 moderate, 201-300 poor, 301-400 very poor and 401-500 is marked as severe or hazardous. "The overall Delhi air quality is in the Poor category as forecasted. Surface winds are low and forecasted to improve during the day. AQI is likely to marginally deteriorate tomorrow and likely to stay at the Poor to the lower end of the Very Poor category. An increase in wind speed and boundary layer height is forecasted from 26 February. This is likely to influence AQI positively and Poor AQI is forecasted on 26 and 27 February," SAFAR said in its bulletin. SAFAR, in its health advisory, stated that people should avoid all physical activity outdoors and move activities indoors. It urged the asthmatics to keep medicines handy. Meanwhile, the air quality in Maharashtra`s Mumbai also deteriorated to the `poor` category from the `moderate` category.

Delhi's air quality 'very poor', AQI at 303

Largest U.S oil refineries in Texas have released tons of air pollutants into the skies. The refineries had to shut their production to not let the air dilute with pollutants. These pollutants also resulted in Hypodermia which resulted in killing dozens of people. Pollutants which came from the Texas air originally got diluted from the Artic air and pollutants held responsible for the diseases.

Environmental crises in Texas led to dozens of hypothermia cases

A new study published on Monday has shed light on the&nbsp;irreversible link between air pollution and vision loss.

Air pollution can cloud people's vision and in later life lead to macular degeneration, an age-related eye ailment that can lead to&nbsp;irreversible blindness.

Researchers believe that pollutants such as particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, sulphur&nbsp;dioxide are the biggest causes of health concerns.

The study reveals that&nbsp;people who were exposed to higher fine ambient particulate matter with an aerodynamic diametre of 2.5 micrometres&nbsp;had higher odds of self-reported age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

The United Kingdom Biobank conducted this cross-sectional study on&nbsp;participants aged 40–69 years.

According to the authors of the study,&nbsp;"Our findings add to the growing evidence of the damaging effects of ambient air pollution, even in the setting of relatively low exposure of ambient air pollution."

Over 90 per cent of the global population lives in places where air quality levels exceed the limits set for pollutants that pose health risks, as per estimates published by the&nbsp;&nbsp;World Health Organization.

Previous research based on satellite data and ground observations had struggled to distinguish&nbsp;pollution&nbsp;caused by burning fossil fuels from other sources of harmful particulates, such as wildfires or dust.

The team from three British universities and Harvard University sought to overcome this problem by using a high-resolution model to give a clearer indication of which kinds of pollutants people were breathing in a particular area.

Research in 2017 had put the annual number of deaths from all outdoor&nbsp;airborne particulate matter — including dust and smoke from agricultural burns and wildfires — at 4.2 million.

A new study published on Monday has shed light on the irreversible link between air pollution and vision loss. Air pollution can cloud people's vision and in later life lead to macular degeneration, an age-related eye ailment that can lead to irreversible blindness.

A new study published on Monday has shed light on the irreversible link between air pollution and vision loss. Air pollution can cloud people's vision and in later life lead to macular degeneration, an age-related eye ailment that can lead to irreversible blindness. Researchers believe that pollutants such as particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, sulphur dioxide are the biggest causes of health concerns. The study reveals that people who were exposed to higher fine ambient particulate matter with an aerodynamic diametre of 2.5 micrometres had higher odds of self-reported age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The United Kingdom Biobank conducted this cross-sectional study on participants aged 40–69 years. According to the authors of the study, "Our findings add to the growing evidence of the damaging effects of ambient air pollution, even in the setting of relatively low exposure of ambient air pollution." Over 90 per cent of the global population lives in places where air quality levels exceed the limits set for pollutants that pose health risks, as per estimates published by the World Health Organization. Previous research based on satellite data and ground observations had struggled to distinguish pollution caused by burning fossil fuels from other sources of harmful particulates, such as wildfires or dust. The team from three British universities and Harvard University sought to overcome this problem by using a high-resolution model to give a clearer indication of which kinds of pollutants people were breathing in a particular area. Research in 2017 had put the annual number of deaths from all outdoor airborne particulate matter — including dust and smoke from agricultural burns and wildfires — at 4.2 million.

Study reveals irreversible link between air pollution and vision loss

Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk announced on Tuesday that he was taking a break from Twitter.

"Off Twitter for a while," Musk tweeted to his 44.8 million followers, but gave no further details.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Off Twitter for a while
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1356524205374918659?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Musk, who recently surpassed Jeff Bezos to become the world's richest man, is an active Twitter user.&nbsp;

He has a following of over 44 million on the microblogging platform, where his posts range from memes to updates about Tesla and SpaceX and interactions with fans.&nbsp;

The last time Musk announced he was stepping away from Twitter was in June - he stayed away for two days.&nbsp;

In 2019, he said he was quitting the social media site only to return three days later.

Musk, who helms the electric carmaker Tesla Inc and rocket startup SpaceX, did not elaborate on the message and has not tweeted since.

He had tweeted about Etsy Inc last week helping propel the online retailer's stock to a record high. Similarly, Musk's most recent take on bitcoin and dogecoin, has boosted the value of the cryptocurrencies.

(With inputs from agencies)

Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk announced on Tuesday that he was taking a break from Twitter. "Off Twitter for a while," Musk tweeted to his 44.8 million followers, but gave no further details.

Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk announced on Tuesday that he was taking a break from Twitter. "Off Twitter for a while," Musk tweeted to his 44.8 million followers, but gave no further details. Off Twitter for a while — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 2, 2021 × Musk, who recently surpassed Jeff Bezos to become the world's richest man, is an active Twitter user. He has a following of over 44 million on the microblogging platform, where his posts range from memes to updates about Tesla and SpaceX and interactions with fans. The last time Musk announced he was stepping away from Twitter was in June - he stayed away for two days. In 2019, he said he was quitting the social media site only to return three days later. Musk, who helms the electric carmaker Tesla Inc and rocket startup SpaceX, did not elaborate on the message and has not tweeted since. He had tweeted about Etsy Inc last week helping propel the online retailer's stock to a record high. Similarly, Musk's most recent take on bitcoin and dogecoin, has boosted the value of the cryptocurrencies. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Off for a while’: Elon Musk says taking break from Twitter

A new study has found that long term exposure to polluted air could lead to blindness.

Study: Polluted air could make you blind

A new study has found that long term exposure to polluted air could lead to blindness. WION's Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: Air pollution could make you blind, study finds

A new report came out revealing new dimensions of threat from air pollution. Long term exposure to polluted air could lead to blindness. This video gets you the complete story.

The Common eye ailment linked to pollution

Air pollution is associated with an increased risk of progressive and irreversible sight loss, known as age-related macular degeneration (AMD).&nbsp;

Researchers, including those from the University College London, UK, noted that AMD is the leading cause of irreversible blindness among the over 50s in high-income countries, with the numbers of those affected projected to reach 300 million by 2040.

Known risk factors include older age, smoking, and genetic make-up.

Given that ambient air pollution is associated with heightened risks of heart and respiratory diseases, the study, published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology, analysed if it might also be associated with a heightened risk of AMD.

The researchers drew on data from 115,954 UK Biobank (UKBB) study participants aged 40-69 with no eye problems at the start of this study in 2006.

Measures of ambient air pollution included those for particulate matter (PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and nitrogen oxides (NOx).

Of the total number of study participants, 1,286 were diagnosed with AMD, according to the researchers.

Among the 52,602 people whose eyes had been assessed, 75 per cent of those with a clinical diagnosis of AMD had signs of AMD on retinal imaging compared to only 12 per cent of those without a clinical diagnosis of AMD.

Analysis of the data showed that higher fine particulate matter (PM2.5 ) exposure was associated with a higher (8 per cent) risk of AMD, while all other pollutants, except coarse particulate matter, were associated with changes in retinal structure.

The researchers noted that it is an observational study, and as such, can't establish cause, adding the findings, however, echo those found elsewhere in the world.

They suggest ambient air pollution could plausibly be associated with AMD through oxidative stress or inflammation.

Air pollution is associated with an increased risk of progressive and irreversible sight loss, known as age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Researchers, including those from the University College London, UK, noted that AMD is the leading cause of irreversible blindness among the over 50s in high-income countries, with the numbers of those affected projected to reach 300 million by 2040.

Air pollution is associated with an increased risk of progressive and irreversible sight loss, known as age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Researchers, including those from the University College London, UK, noted that AMD is the leading cause of irreversible blindness among the over 50s in high-income countries, with the numbers of those affected projected to reach 300 million by 2040. Known risk factors include older age, smoking, and genetic make-up. Given that ambient air pollution is associated with heightened risks of heart and respiratory diseases, the study, published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology, analysed if it might also be associated with a heightened risk of AMD. The researchers drew on data from 115,954 UK Biobank (UKBB) study participants aged 40-69 with no eye problems at the start of this study in 2006. Measures of ambient air pollution included those for particulate matter (PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and nitrogen oxides (NOx). Of the total number of study participants, 1,286 were diagnosed with AMD, according to the researchers. Among the 52,602 people whose eyes had been assessed, 75 per cent of those with a clinical diagnosis of AMD had signs of AMD on retinal imaging compared to only 12 per cent of those without a clinical diagnosis of AMD. Analysis of the data showed that higher fine particulate matter (PM2.5 ) exposure was associated with a higher (8 per cent) risk of AMD, while all other pollutants, except coarse particulate matter, were associated with changes in retinal structure. The researchers noted that it is an observational study, and as such, can't establish cause, adding the findings, however, echo those found elsewhere in the world. They suggest ambient air pollution could plausibly be associated with AMD through oxidative stress or inflammation.

Air pollution may result in irreversible blindness, study says

A new study has revealed that air pollution is likely to increase the risk of irreversible sight loss. Researchers have drawn a link between age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and air pollution.

Air pollution likely to raise risk of sight loss

According to a new study, one in 15 lost pregnancies in South Asia is due to air pollution.&nbsp;The polluted air starts choking a baby even before birth.&nbsp;It causes miscarriages and&nbsp;foetal deaths.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-pollution-in-india-led-to-17-million-deaths-in-2019-study-351871">Air pollution in India led to 1.7 million deaths in 2019: Study</a>

The study says that nearly 350,000 failed pregnancies in South Asia can be attributed to air pollution and&nbsp;out of this, 67 per cent are in rural areas.

Wuhan virus has caused worldwide deaths, but vaccines are more than a ray of hope.&nbsp;However, another invisible killer is still on the prowl, an old enemy of humankind that is responsible for 1.6 million deaths each year.&nbsp;It has now been established as a key contributor in failed pregnancies.

According to a new study published in The Lancet Planetary Health, air pollution is leading to numerous stillbirths and miscarriages in South Asia.

It reveals that nearly 350,000 failed pregnancies in India, Pakistan and Bangladesh can be attributed to poor air quality.

Poor quality means the presence of PM2.5 particles, which are produced by farming, industrial activity, wood-burning and transport.

PM2.5 particles are harmful to all human beings but for an unborn baby, they can be lethal.

The survey indicates that over 34,197 women in South Asia have lost one pregnancy each due to bad air.

<h2>Rural areas are also not safe</h2>

As many as 77 per cent of these women are reportedly from India and out of this 67 per cent belong to rural areas.

These rural areas are the ones that often get neglected in the rush to cleanse the air in big cities.

Air pollution is hurting rural India too and in fact is at par with urban &amp; industrialised areas.

A 2015 study revealed that 75% of the total air pollution-related deaths in India take place in rural areas.

<h2>Whom should we blame?</h2>

The biggest reason is the widespread usage of traditional cooking fuels, noxious fumes from dung cakes, charcoal, crop residue, coal and kerosene oil.

The Indian government has initiated programs to reduce household use of biomass fuels.

The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana is improving access to LPG in rural areas but there is still a long way to go.

This report tells us that we can no longer view air pollution through a city-centric lens and we can no longer limit our action to protecting those around us as children are getting killed before they are even born. 
&nbsp;

According to a new study, one in 15 lost pregnancies in South Asia is due to air pollution. The polluted air starts choking a baby even before birth. It causes miscarriages and foetal deaths.

According to a new study, one in 15 lost pregnancies in South Asia is due to air pollution. The polluted air starts choking a baby even before birth. It causes miscarriages and foetal deaths. Also read | Air pollution in India led to 1.7 million deaths in 2019: Study The study says that nearly 350,000 failed pregnancies in South Asia can be attributed to air pollution and out of this, 67 per cent are in rural areas. Wuhan virus has caused worldwide deaths, but vaccines are more than a ray of hope. However, another invisible killer is still on the prowl, an old enemy of humankind that is responsible for 1.6 million deaths each year. It has now been established as a key contributor in failed pregnancies. According to a new study published in The Lancet Planetary Health, air pollution is leading to numerous stillbirths and miscarriages in South Asia. It reveals that nearly 350,000 failed pregnancies in India, Pakistan and Bangladesh can be attributed to poor air quality. Poor quality means the presence of PM2.5 particles, which are produced by farming, industrial activity, wood-burning and transport. PM2.5 particles are harmful to all human beings but for an unborn baby, they can be lethal. The survey indicates that over 34,197 women in South Asia have lost one pregnancy each due to bad air. Rural areas are also not safe As many as 77 per cent of these women are reportedly from India and out of this 67 per cent belong to rural areas. These rural areas are the ones that often get neglected in the rush to cleanse the air in big cities. Air pollution is hurting rural India too and in fact is at par with urban & industrialised areas. A 2015 study revealed that 75% of the total air pollution-related deaths in India take place in rural areas. Whom should we blame? The biggest reason is the widespread usage of traditional cooking fuels, noxious fumes from dung cakes, charcoal, crop residue, coal and kerosene oil. The Indian government has initiated programs to reduce household use of biomass fuels. The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana is improving access to LPG in rural areas but there is still a long way to go. This report tells us that we can no longer view air pollution through a city-centric lens and we can no longer limit our action to protecting those around us as children are getting killed before they are even born.

Air pollution causes stillbirths and miscarriages in South Asia, says study

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