Antonio Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN), said, “99% of humanity breathes polluted air.”
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“99% of humanity breathes polluted air” – UN Chief Guterres |
He made the statement on World Clean Air Day 2024 on Saturday 7 September, 2024.
World Clean Air Day is observed by members of the United Nations (UN) on 7 September annually with the aim to strengthen international cooperation in improving air quality and reducing air pollution.
According to Guterres: “99% of humanity breathes polluted air – leading to an estimated 8 million premature deaths.
Investing in clean air saves lives, combats climate change, strengthens economies and builds fairer societies.”
He added: “Air Pollution is one of the greatest environmental health threats of our time, leading to sicknesses and deepening inequalities. The good news: we can end the air pollution crisis.”