Authored by: Humza Rana
UAE: Already grappling with the intertwined challenges of swift urban expansion, escalating temperatures, and pressure on freshwater supplies, nations throughout the Middle East and North Africa are now battling for something even more essential — clean air. The World Health Organization has issued a caution that nine out of ten individuals worldwide inhale contaminated outdoor air that surpasses what it considers as permissible levels, emphasizing that the Arab region especially suffers from some of the poorest air quality globally. With the UN Climate Change Conference, COP28, scheduled to occur in Dubai this November, experts argue not only does the issue of the region’s inadequate air quality demand immediate focus, but it also needs sustainable and economically viable solutions. The 2022 World Air Quality Report, carried out by Swiss company IQAir, examined PM2.5 levels (particles small enough to infiltrate deep into the respiratory system and lungs, triggering or aggravating ailments like asthma and cardiovascular issues) in 7,323 cities across 131 countries, regions, and territories. It revealed that the most polluted urban areas in the region are Baghdad in Iraq with an average PM2.5 concentration of 80.1, Manama in Bahrain with 66.6, Kuwait City in Kuwait with 55.8, and Dhahran in Saudi Arabia with 41.5. In total, 118 (90 percent) of the 131 countries and regions examined surpassed the WHO’s annual PM2.5 guideline value of 5 µg/m3. (A concentration of 1 µg/m3 indicates that one cubic meter of air contains one microgram of particulate matter.
The Middle East is facing an escalating public health crisis, one that is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore — air pollution. As urbanization continues at a rapid pace, coupled with the region’s harsh climatic conditions, air quality in many Middle Eastern cities is deteriorating, and the implications for health and well-being are alarming.
The Air We Breathe
Air pollution, particularly PM2.5 — fine particulate matter that is small enough to enter the lungs and bloodstream — poses a significant risk to human health. These tiny particles are released into the air from sources like industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust, dust storms, and the burning of fossil fuels. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that nine out of ten people globally inhale air that exceeds permissible contamination levels, and the Middle East is no exception.
In countries like Iraq, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia, cities like Baghdad, Manama, and Dhahran are particularly affected. According to the 2022 World Air Quality Report, these cities consistently record levels of PM2.5 far exceeding WHO guidelines, with Baghdad registering an average PM2.5 concentration of 80.1 µg/m³, which is 16 times higher than the WHO’s annual recommended limit of 5 µg/m³—these levels of pollution lead to serious health consequences for residents, especially in densely populated urban centers.
Health Consequences of Polluted Air
The implications of poor air quality in the region are profound, particularly when it comes to respiratory and cardiovascular health. Prolonged exposure to fine particulate matter has been linked to a range of chronic conditions, such as:
- Asthma and Chronic Respiratory Diseases:
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- Studies have shown that high levels of air pollution significantly increase the risk of respiratory conditions like asthma, bronchitis, and COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease). In the Middle East, where temperatures frequently soar and air conditioning usage is high, the combination of indoor and outdoor pollution exacerbates these conditions.
- Cardiovascular Diseases:
- Fine particulate matter also contributes to the development of heart disease. Long-term exposure can lead to hypertension, heart attacks, and stroke. In cities with high pollution levels, the risks of cardiovascular diseases are alarmingly higher.
- Premature Mortality:
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- According to the World Health Organization, air pollution contributes to the premature death of millions of people every year, especially in regions with poor air quality. In the Middle East, premature mortality linked to air pollution is rising, with vulnerable populations like the elderly and children most at risk.
- Cancer:
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- Long-term exposure to air pollution has been classified as a carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). The increased risk of developing lung cancer and other cancers due to exposure to hazardous air pollutants is a growing concern in the region.
The Socioeconomic Impact
In addition to the direct health effects, air pollution also places a tremendous economic burden on the region. Healthcare costs for treating respiratory and cardiovascular diseases are increasing, while loss of productivity due to illness leads to economic setbacks. The region’s growing health system demands resources to manage the increasing number of patients with pollution-related diseases.
What Can Be Done?
Given the severity of the issue, it is imperative for governments, businesses, and individuals to take action. As COP28 prepares to take place in Dubai later this year, global leaders will have an opportunity to address the urgent need for sustainable solutions to improve air quality.
- Policy Changes: Governments in the Middle East need to enact stricter environmental regulations aimed at reducing emissions from industrial sources, vehicles, and power plants.
- Public Awareness: Campaigns to educate citizens about the dangers of air pollution and the importance of reducing personal exposure — such as staying indoors on high pollution days — could save lives.
- Investment in Renewable Energy: The region’s dependency on fossil fuels is a major contributor to air pollution. Transitioning to clean energy sources like solar and wind power could significantly reduce pollution levels.
- Urban Planning and Green Spaces: Incorporating green spaces in urban environments and improving public transportation can also help reduce the level of pollution in major cities.
- Technological Innovation: Developing and deploying air quality monitoring systems to track pollution levels in real time and inform the public of hazardous conditions can lead to more effective management of pollution.
Conclusion
Air pollution in the Middle East poses a serious threat to public health, with increasing rates of respiratory diseases, cardiovascular conditions, and reduced overall well-being. Factors such as rapid urbanization, industrial emissions, desert dust storms, and climate change have exacerbated air quality issues, leading to long-term health consequences. To mitigate these effects, governments, healthcare institutions, and individuals must take proactive measures, including stricter environmental regulations, improved air quality monitoring, and public awareness campaigns. Investing in sustainable energy solutions, urban green spaces, and protective measures for vulnerable populations can help reduce the burden of air pollution. Addressing air pollution is not just an environmental concern but a crucial public health priority. By implementing evidence-based policies and fostering regional cooperation, the Middle East can work towards a healthier, cleaner future for its people.
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