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23. November 2024
Start Top Story Real-time counter tracks cost of air pollution during COVID-19

Real-time counter tracks cost of air pollution during COVID-19

“As governments look to rebuild their economies, it is more important than ever that investments are directed toward green and sustainable industry. Rather than providing a last lifeline to the fossil fuel industry, we must invest in renewable energy sources like wind and solar, which are much more economically viable in the long term. Now is the time for a rapid shift away from polluting fossil fuels, for our and for society,” said Avinash Chanchal, climate campaigner at Greenpeace India.Of all 28 cities studied, Delhi saw the highest per capita mortality rate due to air pollution over the past 12 months. The counter reveals that air pollution took a major toll on the city’s economy, at a cost of approximately US$3.5 billion over the last sixth months, or the equivalent of 5.8% of the city’s GDP. There is strong evidence that long-term air pollution exposure increases the risk of severe COVID-19 infections and death. Chronic air pollution exposure is associated with diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and chronic lung disease. Patients with these conditions are at a greater risk of hospitalization with COVID-19.

read more … www.greenpeace.org/international/press-release…

Greenpeace International
www.greenpeace.org