On September 30 local time, the European Union's Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service (CAMS) released a report stating that in the first eight months of this year, due to factors such as heatwaves, wildfires, and human emissions, approximately one-third of the world's population was exposed to high concentrations of ozone pollution.
The report found that from January 1st to September 15th, the air quality in 34% of the global population was "extremely poor," meaning the ozone concentration in those areas was much higher than the levels recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO).
17% of the population lives in areas with air quality "very poor". Only 5% of the population lives in areas where ozone levels reach "good" level.
Report screenshots
The report states that although countries have made progress in reducing other harmful pollutant emissions over the past decades, ozone pollution remains difficult to control.
When high temperatures and sunlight interact with air pollutants from wildfires, cars, and industrial activities, ozone pollution near the ground is formed. This type of pollution can damage lung tissue, causing respiratory problems, asthma attacks, and other health issues.
This year's ozone pollution was partly caused by record-breaking heatwaves and wildfires. Heatwaves and wildfires swept across Europe and North America, and the smoke they generated even crossed national borders.
Air pollution will not stop at national borders. It can spread thousands of kilometers, crossing continents and oceans, affecting air quality in areas far from the source of pollution.” said Laurence Rouil, Head of CAMS.
