Leaving No City Behind: An Integrated Approach for Air Pollution Control

Air pollution control and climate action are interlinked and have multifaceted impacts on public health in urban cities. With 6.7 million deaths in 2019, air pollution takes the lead as the foremost environmental health risk, incurring annual health costs of USD 8.1 trillion, as reported by the World Bank. This article highlights the importance of addressing air pollution in cities for healthier environments and accelerating climate action. An overview of air quality variations across seven select cities over time will demonstrate the unequal prioritization of air pollution control, hindering progress toward both climate action goals and the health benefits of urban environments with clean air. City-specific disparities to measure and manage air pollution are discussed, as well as successful city initiatives aimed at curbing emissions. This commentary also addresses the influential role of governance in shaping effective air pollution control measures. Policymakers can shape regional and international initiatives through regulatory frameworks and treaties to combat the shared challenge of urban air pollution. By the end of this commentary, the authors aim to construct a case for air pollution control encompassing health, economic, environmental, and social dimensions. Actionable insights are presented for policymakers to propel the transition toward healthier cities to leave no city behind.