International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies 2024: Date, How to Celebrate, History and Theme (Invest in #CleanAirNow)

Every year, the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies is observed all around the world on September 7. The day aims to raise awareness on the importance of clean air for health of people and to promote solutions that improve quality of air through best practices. Specific focus is given on the degrading effect of poor air quality on women, children and older persons. The first International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies was held on 7 September 2020, with virtual events held around the world.

International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies Date

Below mentioned are the upcoming dates for International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies for the next 4 years.

International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies Overview

Did You Know?

Here are some lesser known facts about air pollution and its side effects that you might not know.

1. Every day 91% of the world’s population is breathing in polluted air.
2. After blood pressures, dietary risk and smoking, air pollution is fourth-largest threat to human health.
3. Death rates from air pollution are highest in low-to-middle income countries.
4. 10 of the world’s 15 most polluted cities are in India.
5. China has managed to drop its particulate pollution by 29% in only 6 years.
6. According to the World Bank, the global cost of air pollution is US$225 billion annually.
7. As per WHO, there were around 6.5 million deaths worldwide from air pollution-related diseases in 2012.
8. Tiny particles, known as PM2.5, can penetrate deep into the lungs and cardiovascular system and increase the risk of disease.
9. 3 billion don’t have access to clean fuels and technologies for cooking, making household air pollution a significant challenge.
10. Air pollution is damaging the health of our planet by driving climate change.

Significance of International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies

For healthy body and mind, it is very important that the air that we breathe is clean. Polluted air is not only a risk to human health but is also a cause of untimely death of people, especially children. Other than this, it has a negative impact on the environment as well all know it. UN Member States recognize the need to substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from polluted air and therefore International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies is celebrated every year.

History behind International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies Observation

A resolution was passed in the United Nations General Assembly stating “the need to strengthen international cooperation at the global, regional and sub-regional levels in various areas related to improving air quality, including the collection and utilization of data, joint research and development, and the sharing of best practices.” On 19 December 2019, at the session’s 52nd plenary meeting, the Assembly adopted the resolution to celebrate International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies. Since all countries around the world were united on the issue, the resolution was passed without a vote.

How to celebrate International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies?

This International Day of Clean Air for blue skies is observed with events held all around the world emphasizing on the need for clear, pollution-free air. You can attend any such event taking place in your locality or attend virtual events organized by UN, WHO, UNEP or other similar organizations. You can also mark this day by practicing changes in your lifestyle that will cause less impact on our environment.

International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies Theme

2024 Theme: Invest in #CleanAirNow

Frequently Asked Questions