Lykkers, welcome to a thoughtful and informative journey into one of the most urgent topics affecting lives across the globe: air quality and its impact on human well-being.

In today's fast-paced and interconnected world, it’s important to understand how environmental conditions influence everyday life and future generations. Here's a clear and friendly overview of what’s happening, why it matters, and how cities and individuals can be part of the solution.

The Global Impact of Air Pollution

Lives Affected Every Minute

Air pollution causes the death of 13 people every minute due to respiratory complications, heart-related conditions, and strokes. The total number of avoidable deaths tied to environmental causes each year exceeds 13 million.

Widespread Exposure

According to the World Health Organization, nine out of ten people on the planet breathe polluted air. This harmful exposure is not limited to outdoor spaces; poor air circulation indoors and contaminated surfaces also contribute to health challenges.

Lack of Safe Essentials

Globally, 3.6 billion people live without secure sanitation, and 2 billion people do not have access to clean drinking water due to contamination. These conditions elevate the risk of infections and long-term illness.

Additional Risks from Climate Events

Rising temperatures and extreme weather, such as floods, increase the risk of diseases. For example, as many as 2 billion people may become more vulnerable to dengue in the coming years.

Preventable Health Problems

Air pollution and unsafe environmental conditions contribute annually to:

- 2.6 million deaths from heart-related issues

- 1.5 million deaths from respiratory infections

- 1.4 million deaths from serious growths in body tissue

In addition, over 40% of deaths from certain widespread infections and nearly all deaths from severe diarrheal diseases could be prevented with effective environmental measures.

Urban Areas and Their Role

Concentration of Pollution in Major Cities

The 25 largest metropolitan areas worldwide, including cities like Tokyo and New York, are responsible for 55% of global emissions. These findings come from research conducted by environmental scientists analyzing emission trends in 167 cities.

Highest Contributors

Among the top polluting cities worldwide (in CO₂ equivalents annually) are:

- Handan (199 million tons)

- Shanghai (188 million tons)

- Suzhou (152 million tons)

- Dalian (142 million tons)

- Beijing (132 million tons)

- Tianjin (123 million tons)

- Wuhan (110 million tons)

Most Affected Areas in Europe

In Europe, key cities with the highest levels of emissions include:

- Moscow (155 million tons)

- Istanbul (84 million tons)

- St. Petersburg (51 million tons)

- Frankfurt (45 million tons)

- Athens (41 million tons)

- Berlin (27 million tons)

- Turin (22 million tons)

- Hamburg (19 million tons)

- Rotterdam (17 million tons)

- Warsaw (15 million tons)

Steps Toward Sustainable Cities

Urban Contribution to Emissions

Cities generate 82% of the planet’s CO₂ emissions. Of that, 42% comes directly from buildings. This indicates a need for more sustainable urban development, where environmental care and energy efficiency become central values.

Rethinking Infrastructure

There’s growing recognition of the importance of redesigning infrastructure with long-term sustainability in mind. Prioritizing adaptable and durable materials and shifting toward clean energy sources can have wide-reaching benefits.

Green Choices for All

Citizens in both large cities and smaller towns can support emission-free progress. Simple actions—such as opting for eco-friendly technologies and supporting sustainable local projects—help create a healthier and cleaner environment for everyone.

Final Thoughts

Dear Lykkers, our shared future depends on the choices made today. The health of people and the planet are closely connected. With better awareness, sustainable innovation, and community action, it’s possible to reduce harmful emissions and improve quality of life for all. Small steps can lead to major change—so let’s stay informed, stay active, and be part of a cleaner tomorrow.