The recent sixth session of the United Nations Environment Assembly, often dubbed the 'World’s Environment Parliament,' concluded on March 1, 2024, with a groundbreaking resolution aimed at combating the escalating issue of air pollution globally.

The assembly, acknowledging the severe environmental and health risks linked to air pollution, particularly impacting vulnerable populations, adopted a draft resolution outlining robust action plans.

Building on previous resolutions, the assembly emphasised the imperative for collaborative efforts among governments, environmental and health organizations, and the private sector.

“Further recognizing air pollution also has significant adverse effects on ecosystems leading to loss of biodiversity, acknowledging that addressing air pollution results in multiple benefits to human health, the economy, ecosystems and climate and that efforts across sectors are needed to improve air quality, acknowledging that improving air quality can result in climate co-benefits and that climate change mitigation efforts can result in air quality co-benefits.”

The United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA) is a global environmental summit convened by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

It serves as the highest-level decision-making body on environmental matters, bringing together member states to discuss and formulate policies addressing pressing environmental challenges.

UNEA provides a platform for nations to collaborate, share insights, and develop strategies to promote sustainable development, biodiversity conservation, and the responsible use of natural resources.

The assembly plays a crucial role in shaping international environmental policies and fostering a collective commitment to addressing the world's most critical environmental issues.

The Assembly at its seventh session agreed on six resolutions in a “Draft resolution on promoting regional cooperation on air pollution to improve air quality globally.”

Key components of the resolution include a call for elevated commitments to address the significant impacts of air pollution, in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals. Member states are urged to accelerate the implementation of relevant provisions, including the development of national air quality programs and standards.

A pivotal aspect of the resolution is the establishment of a cooperation network on air quality, led by the Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Programme.

This network aims to raise awareness of the multifaceted impacts of air pollution, enhance national air quality monitoring capacity, and foster collaboration among member states and stakeholders.

"The 'World’s Environment Parliament' is leading the charge against air pollution, emphasizing the urgency of collective action for cleaner and healthier environments," proclaimed the assembly.

This resolution marks a significant milestone in the global fight against air pollution, setting the stage for increased cooperation and concerted efforts to mitigate the environmental, health, and climate impacts of this pressing issue.

The assembly's decisive actions underscore a commitment to fostering a sustainable and healthier future for all.