The latest study published by the World Meteorological Organization has revealed an alarming conclusion for all humanity. According to the data, billions of people around the world breathe polluted air every day, and this process leads to the premature death of more than 4.5 million people annually.
Experts emphasize that one of the main sources of air pollution is forest fires. The smoke particles released from them can spread hundreds and thousands of kilometers, poisoning not only the local environment but entire continents.
One of the study participants stated:
“During the record fire season on the Iberian Peninsula, smoke reached Western Europe, and observations showed that it could spread across the entire continent.”
The report highlighted that in 2024, air quality sharply deteriorated in regions such as Chile, Brazil, Ecuador, Canada, Central Africa, and Siberia, where PM 2.5 particle levels were significantly above the norm.
However, some regions also show positive changes. In particular, in Eastern China and parts of Europe, emissions have significantly decreased. Scientists note that this is the result of strict measures taken at the level of states and cities. For example, in Shanghai, the creation of new parks and tree planting has had a positive impact on air quality. Moreover, despite heavy car traffic, a large proportion of vehicles have started running on electricity.
According to experts, major pollutants such as sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides are decreasing due to strict control measures. However, ground-level ozone — the main component of smog — remains at high levels.
Scientists once again call on governments to remain vigilant: combating air pollution is of decisive importance for human health, nature, and the fate of future generations.
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