India Pledges to Reduce Health Impact of Air Pollution by 2040
India has committed to reducing the health effects of air pollution by 2040. This pledge aligns with the National Clean Air Programme and was announced at the World Health Organization (WHO) conference on air pollution and health in Cartagena, Colombia.
India’s Commitment
Aakash Shrivastava, from India’s Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, stated that the government is dedicated to supporting the health sector. India aims to:
Improve air pollution and disease monitoring.
Promote cleaner cooking fuels, especially for vulnerable communities.
Help doctors protect patients most at risk from air pollution.
However, a report to the Indian Parliament revealed that a large portion of the pollution control budget—Rs 858 crore for 2024-25—has not been used. This unutilized budget accounts for 27.44% of the ministry’s revised annual allocation.
Global Commitments
At the WHO conference, over 50 countries, cities, and organizations announced major plans to fight air pollution. More than 700 people, including government officials, scientists, and UN representatives, attended. The conference aimed to cut health impacts from air pollution by 50% by 2040.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus urged quick action. He called for investment in clean energy and transport, stricter air quality rules, and better protection for vulnerable populations. Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro emphasized that air pollution is a silent killer, taking more lives than violence.
Actions from Other Countries
Spain plans to make its healthcare system carbon-neutral by 2050 by reducing emissions and promoting innovation.
The UK and Northern Ireland will lead global discussions on air pollution, set new targets for fine particulate matter (PM2.5), and raise public awareness about air quality.
Brazil will improve interministerial cooperation, update air quality laws, and track pollution-related deaths.
China is committed to stricter air quality rules, smarter health protection, and international cooperation to meet environmental goals for 2030, 2050, and 2060.
Support from Organizations
The C40 Cities group, which represents nearly 100 major cities, supports WHO’s 2040 target and urges governments to invest in clean air solutions and monitoring systems. The Clean Air Fund (CAF) announced a USD 90 million investment over the next two years to improve air quality and public health.
WHO Director Maria Neira said the WHO is committed to helping countries turn these promises into real actions to improve air quality worldwide.
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