As the world gathers at COP29 Azerbaijan to discuss climate solutions, people in cities like Delhi and Lahore are gasping for breath!! The air quality is so poor that it’s no longer just a health concern. It's a matter of survival! Air pollution levels have hit dangerous highs, with AQI soaring into the “severe” category, making basic human functions like breathing increasingly difficult for millions. In this moment, I can’t help but wonder: while the global stage is filled with policymakers and climate advocates, are we turning a blind eye to the immediate, life-threatening pollution impacting people who are already vulnerable? This pollution doesn’t just come from urban industries or traffic—it’s compounded by the lack of political will and interest to address the root causes that put entire populations at risk. Is it the nonchalance of developed nations or perhaps vested interests in maintaining the status quo? In South Asia, it’s not just about pollution. It’s about systemic neglect. While international bodies meet to discuss climate action, there are women in rural and marginalized areas, passionate about fighting for cleaner air and water, yet unable to engage because they lack the resources and support. Women who are fighting for their communities but are invisible in these global conversations. We cannot ignore their voices, especially when the effects of such pollution are felt most by those who have the least access to solutions. Tomorrow marks #Youth Day at COP29, but as youth around the world push for action, the air in places like Delhi continues to make life uninhabitable. If we can’t address this immediate threat which is the very air we breathe, what are we doing at COP29? Let’s connect the dots. It’s not just about discussions in conference halls; it’s about real, urgent action to address pollution and provide the support needed for the people at the frontline of this crisis. #ClimateAction #COP29 #AirPollution #YouthDay #SouthAsia #EnvironmentalJustice #ClimateJustice #ClimateChange #YouthRepresentation #COP #Ecosystem #SaveOurPlanet #ClimateDenial #SAYWiW #RepresentationMatters #LetUsBreathe United Nations UN Climate Change Climate Action Network International Climate Investment Funds Climate Forward Pakistan Indian Youth Climate Network Antoinette Vermilye (she/her) Bianca Pitt Mamta Borgoyary Heeta Lakhani Climate Group SHE Changes Climate YOUNGO Humnah Fayyaz Women Climate Collective Purpose Young Leaders for Active Citizenship (YLAC) Avaaz YuWaah India at UNICEF PureEarth Greenpeace Climate & Clean Air Coalition Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA)
Systemic neglect and lack of political will and interest - the only two causes for this situation. I don't want to believe anything else. As a Delhi resident, I just feel frustrated and sad that no one is batting an eye to solve the problem. Year after year, the problem persists and excuses are made. All institutions have failed the people of Delhi-NCR.
Horrible situation in Punjab, Bianca Pitt! People falling sick, hospitals filling up, children can't go to school, the life expectancy of Pakistanis is going down by approx 4 years due to poor air quality. We're even struggling to travel between provinces.
Doctoral Researcher at South East Technological University
1wOfcourse it happens to countries like Pakistan where if someone starts tree planting drive or alteast prevention against deforestation. People and politicians mock such ideas, people of Pakistan needs to revolutionise their minds before they expect from an outside source or organisation to tell them what to do or how to do it! And don’t forget those mafias cutting trees all over and setting housing societies and commercial buildings.