Air pollution is becoming an increasingly pressing issue for the population of Uzbekistan. With the heating season approaching in autumn and thermal power stations starting to operate actively, and in summer, the appearance of dust storms that occasionally envelop the capital, the problem becomes even more severe.
Currently, air quality is being monitored in over 6000 cities of 117 countries. According to the information, 99% of the world's population breathes air that is polluted beyond the acceptable quality standards set by the WHO, posing a threat to their health.
Air pollution causes numerous deaths worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 13 million deaths annually could be prevented if we were to eliminate environmental hazards. PM 2.5 particles (fine air particles ranging from 0.001 to 2.5 micrometers) can enter the human body through the lungs and bloodstream, leading to cardiovascular and respiratory diseases.
Statistics show that six percent of non-accidental deaths in Uzbekistan are caused by polluted air.
Air pollution affects food safety, hinders economic development, and contributes to climate change.
Experience from abroad shows that several developed countries have successful programs for improving air quality. For example, in Germany, the “Clean Air Program” has introduced special “red zones” in major cities, where only electric vehicles or non-polluting transportation means can operate. In the USA, industrial emissions are being reduced and green areas expanded as part of measures implemented under the "Clean Air Act".
In the new Pre-Election Program of our Liberal Democratic Party of Uzbekistan, one of the key initiatives is to adopt the “Clean Air – 2030 National Program” to improve atmospheric air in all regions. This program is aimed at improving the ecological situation, preserving the health of the population, and creating a healthy environment for future generations.
Implementing the “Clean Air – 2030” National Program in Uzbekistan will help to conduct air quality monitoring in all regions and identify factors contributing to air pollution. This will facilitate the development of specific measures to address identified problems.
Our party's proposal to implement the “Clean Air – 2030 National Program” is an important step for the ecological and social development of Uzbekistan. By using the experience of foreign countries, this program can significantly improve air quality in our country and reduce ecological problems.