A recent report has underscored the urgent need for international cooperation and assistance to tackle the widening impact of climate change on air pollution in South Asia. With Bangladesh, Pakistan, and India identified as having the worst air quality globally, coupled with a ‘red alert’ issued by the World Meteorological Organization for indicators of global warming, the situation demands immediate attention.
Ann Harrison, Climate Adviser at Amnesty International, highlighted the perilous risks posed to over a billion people in the South Asian region due to escalating climate chaos and prolonged exposure to toxic air quality. Despite this looming crisis, there has been insufficient action from both affected countries and high-income fossil fuel producers, exacerbating the problem primarily driven by fossil fuel combustion.
Harrison reiterated the call for affected South Asian nations to urgently devise and implement cross-border pollution action plans. Additionally, she urged the international community, particularly historical emitters and high-income fossil fuel-producing states, to provide adequate financing for climate adaptation and support the operationalization of the Loss and Damage Fund.
The dire situation in South Asia is evidenced by the alarming air quality levels, with the majority of the most polluted cities located in India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. In 2023, Bangladesh surpassed WHO safety guidelines for air quality by nearly 16 times, with similar concerning statistics observed in Pakistan and India. The lack of air quality monitoring stations in other regions further exacerbates the issue.
Climate change and air pollution are intricately linked, with the same pollutants exacerbating both crises. The impacts of air pollution are further compounded by rising temperatures, as evidenced by the 2023 ‘State of Global Climate’ report, which declared it the hottest year on record. Urgent and concerted efforts are imperative to address this multifaceted crisis, including a swift transition away from fossil fuels towards renewable energy sources, ensuring a just and equitable transition for all.