Cartagena: Colombia is set to host the Second World Conference on Air Pollution and Health in the city of Cartagena from March 25 to 27. The event, sponsored by the World Health Organization (WHO), aims to promote global efforts to address the impacts of climate change and combat pollution, which affects the health of billions globally.

According to Lao News Agency, poor air quality is responsible for the deaths of at least seven million people worldwide each year. The majority of these deaths are linked to non-communicable diseases, such as cardiovascular and respiratory diseases and lung cancer. The conference will bring together ministers of health, environment, and energy, alongside officials from national, intergovernmental, and development agencies, researchers, academics, and civil society.

The theme of this year’s conference is ‘Accelerating action for clean air, access to clean energy and climate action.’ According to Colombia’s Vice Minister of Public Health, Jaime Urrego, the event will provide a
n opportunity for numerous countries to unite in a global spirit to confirm and learn about the evidence of the impact of pollution on health, share solutions, and build high-level political commitment to tackle pollution.