KATHMANDU, April 27, 2024: Save the Children launched a research report titled ‘Breathless Future: Unveiling the Impacts of Air Pollution on Children and Women in Kathmandu and Saptari’ on Friday. The report aims to shed light on the systemic impact of air pollution on various aspects of children’s lives, while also exploring its impact on women and underrepresented groups.
According to the press release, the report reveals that deteriorating air quality, both outdoors and indoors, has exposed children and women to a multitude of health hazards. These include respiratory ailments, such as asthma, other lung conditions, coughing, skin disease, nausea, and headache. Alarmingly, these conditions have led to increased cases of pregnancy loss, child organ underdevelopment, and a general decline in life expectancy.
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It is highlighted in the press release that the research was conducted in Kathmandu and Saptari, two of the most air-polluted districts of Nepal, in collaboration with Youth Alliance for Environment and Kayapalat.
During the launch event, Ayush Joshi, Director of Advocacy, Campaigns, Communications, and Media at Save the Children, emphasized the broader implications of air pollution which go beyond health concerns to include disruptions to children’s education and families’ livelihood options.
It is noted in the press release that the findings from the report will guide Save the Children’s Generation Hope Campaign, aimed at advancing children’s environmental rights, including their right to a clean and healthy environment.
