A growing health threat posed by poor air quality has prompted renewed calls for urgent action, as figures from the World Health Organization (WHO) show that an estimated 28,000 people die each year in Ghana from air-pollution-related causes.
Experts warn that the figure is likely to rise if immediate interventions are not taken to curb emissions and improve air quality standards.
In response to the alarming statistics, Breathe Cities, a non-governmental organization committed to tackling urban air pollution, has teamed up with Infinity 970 to embark on a nationwide public sensitization campaign.
The initiative aims to educate communities on the causes, dangers and preventive measures needed to reduce exposure to polluted air.
As part of the campaign, the team on Monday, November 24, stormed the Arts Centre in Accra, where they engaged traders, artisans, commercial drivers and visitors on the effects of prolonged exposure to polluted air.
Participants were educated on the health risks, including respiratory diseases, heart complications and reduced life expectancy, as well as practical steps individuals and communities can take to mitigate the problem.
Representatives from the two organizations said the outreach forms part of a sustained effort to reach high-risk communities, especially those in congested urban centres.
“We cannot sit unconcerned while thousands of Ghanaians lose their lives to a preventable problem.
Education is the first step.
When people understand the dangers and how to protect themselves, we save lives,” a campaign lead said.
Residents at the Arts Centre welcomed the initiative, describing it as timely and necessary given the increasing dust levels, vehicular emissions and open burning within the capital.
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