Breathing is the most basic human function to sustain life. And yet today, air pollution is a public health crisis, causing an estimated 7 million deaths worldwide, every year.
In many cities, it is impossible to exercise outdoors without inhaling a cocktail of toxic pollutants. In fact, everyday, the air that most of us breathe is increasing our risk of strokes, heart disease, lung cancer, and asthma.
Yet while we pay the price of air pollution with our health, behind the choking haze lies the fossil fuel industry – oil, coal and car companies – that continue to profit while polluting our air.
In addition to contributing to air pollution, the burning of fossil fuels is the leading cause of global climate change.
The good news is that, around the world, millions of people like you are standing up and demanding solutions.
People are taking to the streets to call for #CleanAirNow.
In the toolkit you will find powerful, easy to implement ideas outlining how to take collective action. Finally, the toolkit provides some logistical tips on how to conduct the activities and tells you who to contact for further clarification or support.
You can take action with your family, with a larger group or as an individual. The action you take should align with the ‘essentials’ detailed in the toolkit.
You will also find common hashtags and some messages which can be used during an activity. As a part of the global solidarity movement, this toolkit equips you with ideas and inspiration to act against air pollution in your local area.
