International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies on September 7 is observed to recognize the importance of clean air in our health and daily lives. Air pollution is the most serious single environmental threat to people’s health and one of the leading preventable causes of death and disease worldwide. Women, children, and the elderly are disproportionately affected by air pollution, which also has destructive effects on the environment. The day serves as a rallying cry to unite our efforts and assert our right to clean air.
History of International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies
During its 74th session, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution calling for an International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies on December 19, 2019, and invited the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) to help organize the international day on September 7 in collaboration with other relevant organizations.The day serves as a platform for increasing global solidarity and political momentum for action against air pollution and climate change. It includes increased international cooperation on air quality data collection, joint research, the development of new technologies, and the sharing of best practices. The resolution was adopted without a vote, indicating that all regions understood the importance of this concept, were united on the issue, and there were no obvious divisions.The day seeks to promote the importance of clean air for health, efficiency, the economy, and the environment. This will help to demonstrate the close relationship between air quality and other environmental and developmental challenges such as climate change.Efforts to mark the day focus on promoting solutions that improve air quality by sharing actionable knowledge, best practices, innovations, and success stories. These actions are geared toward bringing together diverse actors for concerted national, regional, and international approaches. Join the fight for cleaner air and blue skies by learning more about the effects of air pollution. With shared responsibility, we can develop creative solutions to help preserve our environment and health.
International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies timeline
Donara, Pennsylvania experiences a killer smog that kills over 20 people and sickens hundreds of residents.
The U.S. Congress passes the Clean Air Act, which also leads to the formation of the Environmental Protection Agency (E.P.A.).
International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies is created on December 19.
The first International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies is observed on September 7, with events taking place all over the world.
International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies FAQs
What is the significance of clean air?
Breathing clean air reduces the risk of stroke, heart disease, lung cancer, and chronic lung illnesses like asthma. Relatively low levels of air pollution are better for both long-term and short-term cardiovascular and respiratory health.
How does the air get polluted?
Air pollution is caused by a buildup of solid particles and gasses in the atmosphere. Particles can contain car emissions, factory chemicals, dust, pollen, and mold spores. Ozone is a gas that contributes significantly to urban air pollution. Smog is the name given to air pollution caused by ozone.
How can the air be cleaned?
There are tons of approaches to keeping the air clean. Here are a few ideas to get you started: Avoid burning garbage, use energy-saving lights, avoid using aerosols, use low-watt bulbs, and reduce the use of air conditioners and keep the temperature a few degrees higher
How to Observe International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies
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Attend a formal event
The official launch of the International Day of Clean Air was held in South Korea in 2020, and while it may not be an easy destination for our readers, we wouldn't be surprised if you find a rally or conference near you this year now that momentum has built up.
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Spread the word
The internet can now be a powerful positive force and a turning point for learning and change. If you're passionate about cleaning up the environment and the atmosphere in general, use the hashtag #InternationalDayOfCleanAir and ask your friends and followers to repost it.
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Plant trees and other vegetation
If you want a long-term solution to pollution control, planting trees is the way to go. It's a tried-and-true method that works. Make the world greener!
5 Important Facts About The Air
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Oceans generate oxygen
The oceans produce roughly 70% of the world's oxygen.
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Silent killer
Air pollution kills more people in Africa than poor sanitation or malnutrition.
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Dead zones
There are presently around 500 dead zones in the globe in which no living organism can exist.
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Carbon dioxide emitters
China leads the world in carbon dioxide production, with the United States coming in second.
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Carbon dioxide cleaners
In 2016, giant machines in Switzerland started capturing carbon dioxide to clean the air we breathe.
Why International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies is Important
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A reminder of pollution's negative impact
As disheartening as it may sound, pollution has harmed half of the world's population. This day serves as a reminder to be more cautious and take precautions to save ourselves from the mess we have created.
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A reminder to reduce dumping of waste
Picking up garbage is important, but so is avoiding trash in the first place. Examine your surroundings to see if you can replace some of your single-use packages with reusable containers to reduce waste.
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It is beneficial to future generations
It's a cliche, but it's true: our planet's environment is a legacy we'll leave to our children and grandchildren. The more our present generation can whip pollution problems into shape, the better the future will look.
International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | September 7 | Thursday |
| 2024 | September 7 | Saturday |
| 2025 | September 7 | Sunday |
| 2026 | September 7 | Monday |
| 2027 | September 7 | Tuesday |
