Thread by @WHO

Live from WHO HQ: Opening of the First Global Conference on #AirPollution and Health with @DrTedros pscp.tv/w/bqgLfzI2MTAy…

"We’re here because we know that #AirPollution is one of the biggest threats to global health, & we need to do something about it – urgently.
🌍, 9 out of 10 people breathe air that has been polluted by traffic emissions, industry, agriculture and waste incineration"–@DrTedros

"Some of our 🧒👧 will not reach their full potential because of exposure to #AirPollution in the womb and in early life; some of our 👵👴 will die early because of exposure to it throughout their lives"–@DrTedros at #CleanAir4Health Conference

"The most tragic thing about these 7 million deaths is that they are so preventable. There is something we can do. It will require strong political will, swift action and endurance, but I am optimistic that we can, and must, do better"–@DrTedros at #CleanAir4Health Conference

"We have everything we need to take action:
-Evidence of the harm that #AirPollution does
-Figures to demonstrate its heavy burden on human health, economies & food security
-Proven solutions in almost all areas that contribute to air pollution"–@DrTedros

"I am optimistic because:
-More and more examples of cities, regions and countries around the world that are taking action
-More and more people are arming themselves with information, and are speaking out for their right to breathe clean air"–@DrTedros at #CleanAir4Health

"No person, group, city, country or region can solve the problem alone. We need strong commitments and action from everyone: governments, community leaders, mayors, civil society, the private sector, and individuals"–@DrTedros at #CleanAir4Health Conference

"We need:
-All countries & cities to commit to meeting WHO standards for air quality in the next 12 years
-To agree unequivocally on the need for a 🌍 free of #AirPollution
-Common goals for our common future, such as reducing the number of deaths from air pollution"–@DrTedros