Publication date: March 2025
Author: University of Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership (CISL)
Description: Air pollution is now the second leading cause of death globally, responsible for over 7 million deaths annually. Human exposure to fine particles that penetrate deep into the lungs and cardiovascular system adversely affects both health and wellbeing, while ultimately contributing to premature mortality. Air pollution can also impair foetal lung development, increasing lifelong disease risk and burdening healthcare systems. It also reduces workforce productivity and lowers gross domestic product (GDP), imposing significant economic costs.
