Air pollution continues to be one of the largest environmental risks to health, contributing to millions of deaths each year—especially among vulnerable groups such as children and those with noncommunicable diseases. Energy poverty and the worsening effects of climate change further compound these health threats.

To support science-informed policymaking that protects health and promotes cleaner environments, the World Health Organization (WHO) is launching Phase 2 of its Science and Policy Summaries (SPS) on Air Pollution, Energy Access, Climate Change, and Health.

The SPS aims to equip decision-makers with robust, accessible evidence to support solutions for clean air, clean energy, and climate-resilient health systems.

The SPS are developed through a multistakeholder consultation process that includes experts from WHO Advisory Groups – i.e., the Scientific Advisory Group on Air Pollution and Health (SAG), and the Global Air Pollution and Health – Technical Advisory Group (GAPH-TAG) – as well as specialists from WHO Collaborating Centres, UN agencies, as well as other experts from academia and civil society.

Phase 2 focuses on the health and economic impacts of air pollution, emphasizing the burden on noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) or child health.

Objectives of the webinar

Present focus and findings of Phase 2 of the SPSShowcase the experience of air pollution’s impactFacilitate a dynamic dialogue among health sector experts, exploring actionable solutions for air quality, energy access, and climate mitigationEncourage the uptake of SPS by health ministries, agencies, and other stakeholders for science-based policy development.

Agenda

Opening Remarks
WHO

Opening Testimonial
Lisa Nahgon, 18, Cameroon

Introduction to SPS Phase 2
Sophie Gumy, Technical Officer, Air Quality, Energy and Health, WHO

Deep Dive on exposure and health effects

Zorana Jovanovic Andersen, Professor of Environmental Epidemiology, University of Copenhagen & WHO GAPH-TAG Member

Jason West, Professor, Department Of Environmental Sciences And Engineering, Gillings School of Global Public Health & WHO GAPH-TAG Member

Conversation: Protecting health through cleaner air and climate resilience

Horacio Riojas-Rodriguez, Director, National Institute of Public Health, Mexico

Representative, Ministry of Health and Medical Education, Iran

Moderated by: Sophie Gumy, Technical Officer, Air Quality, Energy and Health, WHO

Questions & answers from the audience

Closing Remarks
Heather Adair-Rohani, Unit Head a.i., Air Quality, Energy and Health