** A breath of hope: the future of pure air by 2040 **
A recent study by the World Bank highlights a subject of critical and often neglected importance: air pollution, which mainly affects low or intermediate income countries. This report, entitled “Accelerating Access to Clean Air On Livable Planet”, throws a glimmer of hope by suggesting that targeted political measures could reduce the number of people exposed to dangerous atmospheric pollution levels by 2040.
But beyond striking figures, it is the urgency to act that should challenge governments, businesses and each citizen. Currently, around 5.7 million annual deaths are linked to outdoor air pollution, with 95 % of these occurring in nations which often lack financial and logistical resources to effectively combat this scourge. The economic consequences are just as alarming: the losses generated by health problems, a decrease in productivity and a reduced life expectancy equivalent to 5 % of world GDP.
An aspect often underestimated in this problem is the link between air pollution and social inequalities. Vulnerable populations, often the most exposed to environmental risks, suffer from a double burden: these are not only beneficiaries of the devastating effects of pollution, but they are also the least capable of defending themselves against these threats. This phenomenon exacerbates the disparities already present between the different strata of society, creating a vicious cycle of poverty and poor health.
## Political solutions: a glimmer of hope
The report stresses that targeted political reforms can have a significant impact. By revising regulations in key sectors such as agriculture, urban development, transport and industry, as well as in home cooking and heating practices, it is quite possible to reduce the level of the disturbing PM2.5 particle, responsible for a large part of this pollution.
The impact of air pollution is worldwide and universal. Developed countries, although benefiting from better health infrastructure, are not spared. Cities like Los Angeles or Beijing, often cited as emblems of self-induced pollution, face persistent challenges despite the considerable efforts implemented. The case of Pechino, for example, has shown that even a drastic reduction in emissions has not ended the high concentrations of PM2.5, however superior to the safety thresholds.
Likewise, in desert regions where sandstorms exacerbate the situation, the challenge is all the more complex. In this perspective, it becomes essential to adopt a global approach. An integrated management strategy which includes local and international initiatives could prove to be paid.
## Health and economy: an inseparable link
By looking at the health and economic consequences of air pollution, it is relevant to emphasize that the cost is much more than economic. Respiratory diseases due to air pollution, especially in children and the elderly, lead to overloaded health systems, an unbearable charge for families, and a high absenteeism rate at work. Estimates even argue that each dollar invested in improving air quality could generate up to $ 36 in economic profits.
Adopting innovative solutions, such as increased use of electric vehicles or the promotion of ecological houses, could reduce not only pollution levels, but also cause strong economic benefits. The rise of a green economy is also a powerful lever to fight climate change, an intimately linked problem to that of air quality.
## Conclusion: a collective responsibility
As we turn to the future, the urgency of a concerted action is pressing. Each day passing without strategically thought helps help perpetuate the cycle of poverty, inequality and despair. Politicians, business leaders, researchers and citizens all have a role to play in this dynamic.
The most inspiring aspect of the World Bank report is perhaps its proactive nature. The possibility of halving the number of individuals exposed to dangerous air pollution levels by 2040 should not be considered as a simple objective, but rather as a call for action. Let us take this opportunity to infuse a positive change, for a less polluted future where each breathing becomes synonymous with health and life.