UN Special Rapporteur Urges Central Asian Nations to Join Forces to Tackle Air Quality Crisis

UN Special Rapporteur on the Human Right to a Healthy Environment, speaking on air quality at a conference in Almaty on 19 September, highlighted that clean air is a human right and encouraged governments to improve policies and legal frameworks to reduce air pollution. 

“Establishing pollution-free zones, particularly around schools and play areas, and maintaining transparent air quality reporting systems are essential to protect public health, especially for vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly. Establish also environmental impact assessment to all projects and activities that might be causing air pollution and other negative and severe impacts to the environment. Additionally, we must address the root causes of air pollution through a human rights-based approach, reducing fossil fuel use, and prioritizing strong legislation that defends human rights,” said the UN Special Rapporteur, Astrid Puentes.

In her video presentation, she emphasized the inherent connection between clean air and the fundamental human right to a healthy environment. Her remarks provided a clarion call for governments across Central Asia to strengthen existing laws and collaborate effectively to tackle air quality challenges. The session underscored the necessity of implementing robust air quality regulations and promoting joint actions across borders to mitigate the impacts of pollution, particularly on the health of vulnerable populations, including pregnant women and children. 

The 3rd Central Asian Air Quality Central Asia Platform Conference, themed “Strengthening regional cooperation on monitoring air quality and dust storms in the context of climate change,” is taking place in Almaty (Kazakhstan) on 19-20 September. It brings together regional experts, government officials, and international organizations to address the pressing issue of air quality and its effects on public health.  

*** 

Full video presentation of Astrid Puentes, UN Special Rapporteur on the Human Right to a Healthy Environment