UNICEF Warns of Devastating Impact of Air Pollution on Children in East Asia, the Pacific
UNICEF’s latest analysis reveals alarming air pollution levels affecting 500 million children in East Asia and the Pacific, the organization’s website reported. As Bangkok faces severe air quality issues, the report highlights the grave consequences of toxic air, particularly during the dry season from now until April. Air pollution is linked to over 100 daily deaths among children under five, undermining their health and development.
The analysis indicates that household air pollution, primarily from solid fuels used for cooking and heating, accounts for more than half of air pollution-related deaths in young children. Furthermore, 325 million children live in areas where particulate matter (PM2.5) levels exceed World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines by more than five times.
June Kunugi, UNICEF Regional Director, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “Every breath matters, but for too many children every breath can bring harm.” The report notes that air pollution contributes to nearly one in four deaths of children under five, impacting their growth and cognitive development.
UNICEF calls on governments, businesses, and communities to take immediate action. Recommendations include strengthening environmental policies, transitioning to clean energy, and implementing programs to reduce exposure to household air pollution. By addressing air pollution, UNICEF believes significant improvements in children’s health, education, and overall well-being can be achieved, benefiting entire societies and economies.
