What's Happening?
A new report from the Clean Air Fund reveals a significant increase in global aid directed towards projects that prolong fossil fuel use, with funding jumping 80% to $9.5 billion in one year. In contrast, support for clean air initiatives fell by 20%
to $3.7 billion, representing only 1% of international development finance. The report warns that these trends, coupled with wider cuts to aid budgets and the shutdown of USAID, will hinder efforts to meet the global pledge to halve air pollution deaths by 2040. The report highlights the uneven distribution of air quality finance, with countries like the Philippines, Bangladesh, and China receiving the majority, while Sub-Saharan Africa saw a dramatic decline.
Why It's Important?
The shift in funding priorities poses a significant challenge to global efforts to combat air pollution and its health impacts. With fossil fuel projects receiving increased support, the goal of reducing air pollution deaths by 2040 becomes more difficult to achieve. The report underscores the need for increased investment in clean air initiatives, which are crucial for protecting public health, strengthening economies, and addressing climate change. The uneven distribution of air quality finance further exacerbates disparities, leaving regions like Sub-Saharan Africa with insufficient resources to tackle air pollution effectively.
