Fires and air pollution: a global crisis with millions of victims

Air pollution caused by fires has become a major global problem, responsible for more than 1.5 million deaths per year, according to a study recently published in the prestigious journal The Lancet. This alarming statistic highlights the devastating impact of climate change and unsustainable agricultural practices, especially on developing countries.

• Impact of pollution caused by fires

The study, which covers the period 2000-2019, highlighted that air pollution generated by fires contributes to serious diseases, such as: cardiovascular diseases, responsible for approximately 450,000 deaths annually; respiratory diseases, which caused approximately 220,000 deaths per year. In addition, the study links 1.53 million deaths annually from all causes to fire pollution. Most of these victims come from low- and middle-income countries, where pollution protection is rarely available.

• The countries hardest hit: a climate injustice

More than 90% of deaths from air pollution caused by fires occurred in developing countries, with almost 40% of them in sub-Saharan Africa. The countries hardest hit include:

China, a region plagued by deforestation and rapid industrialization; India, where illegal burning of farmland generates a toxic cloud that chokes metropolises like New Delhi; and the Democratic Republic of Congo, Indonesia, and Nigeria, where fires are affecting critical ecosystems and vulnerable populations.

These regions face what researchers call a "climate injustice" because affected populations have limited access to the means needed to avoid exposure to smoke, such as air purifiers or protective masks.

• Climate change amplifies the problem

Climate change is a significant contributor to the frequency and intensity of forest fires. Rising global temperatures, prolonged droughts and massive deforestation are creating a fertile environment for devastating fires. The study warns that the number of deaths related to air pollution from fires will increase in the coming years unless urgent action is taken.

• Call for global action

The researchers are calling for urgent interventions to reduce the number of victims. Among the recommended measures are: financial and technological support for vulnerable countries to help them adopt sustainable practices;

strict fire prevention policies, including bans on illegal burning of land; and education and public awareness to encourage proactive protection measures.

• A crisis that affects everyone

Although poor countries are the hardest hit, the air pollution crisis knows no borders. Smoke and fine particles produced by fires can travel thousands of kilometers, affecting people's health and contributing to global climate change. To combat this problem, international collaboration is essential, including stricter regulations, financial support for affected countries, and concerted efforts to reduce carbon emissions. Only through such measures can we hope to reduce the impact of this crisis on global health and the environment.