Solutions and Perspectives from the WHO Conference
Air quality is one of the greatest challenges of our time, and its impact on health is alarming. Just a week ago, the second global WHO Conference on Air Pollution and Health took place in Cartagena, Colombia. From March 25 to 27, 2025, over 700 participants from 100 countries – including government representatives, scientists, and organizations – came together to develop solutions and make commitments to protect the health of millions of people. Concrete measures and commitments were agreed upon to reduce the health impacts of air pollution. The conference emphasized that clean air is a human right.
Air quality is one of the greatest challenges of our time, and its impact on health is alarming. Just a week ago, the second global WHO Conference on Air Pollution and Health took place in Cartagena, Colombia. From March 25 to 27, 2025, over 700 participants from 100 countries – including government representatives, scientists, and organizations – came together to develop solutions and make commitments to protect the health of millions of people. Concrete measures and commitments were agreed upon to reduce the health impacts of air pollution. The conference emphasized that clean air is a human right.
The Alarming Facts About Air Pollution
According to the WHO, seven million people die every year as a result of polluted air. It causes chronic respiratory diseases, heart attacks, strokes, and even cognitive impairments. Countries in the Global South are particularly affected, where over two billion people are exposed to toxic pollutants due to cooking over open fires.
Maria Neira, WHO Director for Climate, Environment, and Health, emphasized: “It’s not just about the environment; it’s about our health. Clean air is a human right.” (source: Tagesschau).
Global Commitments and Actions for Clean Air
The conference concluded with significant commitments from over 50 countries, cities, and organizations. A central goal: to reduce the health impacts of air pollution by 50% by 2040. This will be achieved through investments in clean technologies, sustainable energy, and the expansion of monitoring systems.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, stated: “It is time to move from promises to bold actions. Clean air requires financial investments, technical measures, and social responsibility.” (source: WHO).
Graph: WHO
Examples of International Measures
- Colombia: Introduction of early warning systems for wildfires and promotion of clean technologies in industry and transportation.
- China: Stricter air quality standards and promotion of international cooperation.
- C40 Cities: Major cities like London commit to supporting WHO goals and investing in clean air solutions.
(source: Tagesschau).
Natural Solutions
The conference results highlight that innovative technologies and sustainable approaches are crucial to improving air quality. With natural and innovative solutions like the CityTree, WallBreeze, and CityBreeze, there are concrete ways to combat urban air pollution. These bio-digital innovations combine moss modules with cutting-edge technology to bind fine dust and measurably improve air quality in cities.
Our solutions contribute to achieving the WHO’s goals through:
- Fine dust reduction: Moss modules filter pollutants such as fine dust from the air.
- Sustainability: Compared to conventional filters and coolers, moss modules consume less energy, are regenerative (reusable), recyclable, and CO2-certified. For example, the CityBreeze consumes about 30% less energy than a standard advertising display (digital city light posters). Additionally, the CityBreeze is the first out-of-home solution that cools the surrounding air instead of heating it further.
- Data-driven decisions: Sensors monitor air quality in real time and provide valuable data for urban planners.
Photos: GCS
Why Clean Air Is a Human Right
The WHO conference demonstrated that clean air is not a privilege but a fundamental right. However, this right must be implemented through concrete actions and technologies.
The conference showed that the global community is ready to face the challenges of air pollution. However, it requires collaboration between governments, businesses, and civil society to create a sustainable and healthy future.
Green City Solutions is proud to contribute to these goals by equipping urban spaces with sustainable and effective solutions, helping to create healthier living environments.