The fifth International Day of Clean Air for blue skies takes place on 7 September 2024.

Held under the theme "Invest in #CleanAirNow", it highlights the urgent need for increased investment, stronger policies, and shared responsibility to combat air pollution and its severe impacts on health, economies, and the climate.

The United Nations General Assembly designated 7 September as International Day of Clean Air for blue skies in 2019, and the first Day was held in 2020. This designation reflects the global community’s growing awareness of air pollution risks and underscores the necessity of further efforts to improve air quality to safeguard human and environmental health.

Air pollution is a significant threat not only to human health but also to planetary health. It adversely affects climate, biodiversity, and ecosystems. Investing in clean air can save millions of lives, combat climate change, build fairer societies, and strengthen economies. A safe, clean, healthy, and sustainable environment, including clean air, is integral to the full enjoyment of a wide range of human rights. Inaction exacerbates health risks, economic losses, and climate-related consequences.

Air pollution disproportionately affects children and the elderly and harms ecosystems. Improving air quality is crucial for mitigating many air pollutants that contribute directly to the climate crisis. The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development also acknowledges that air pollution reduction is vital for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

The International Day of Clean Air for blue skies aims to build a global community of action, encouraging countries to collaborate in tackling air pollution to protect our ecosystems. This day provides a platform for cooperation at individual, national, regional, and international levels to work together and Invest in #CleanAirNow.