The annual update of the Air Quality Life Index (AQLI) for 2023 has been released by the Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago (EPIC). AQLI translates air pollution concentrations into their effect on life expectancy. The report highlights several key findings, including the global failure to achieve World Health Organization (WHO) air quality benchmarks, with air pollution being a major threat to life expectancy. South Asia, home to highly polluted countries, faces significant life expectancy reductions. China’s efforts to combat pollution have shown improvements, while Latin American regions with high pollution levels could gain life expectancy if air quality meets WHO guidelines. India, however, faces severe health burdens due to air pollution, particularly in the Northern Plains region.
Facts/Terms for UPSC Prelims
- 5: Particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or smaller, a common air pollutant known to have adverse health effects.
- Hyper-localized: Providing data and insights at an extremely local or specific level, often used for understanding the impact of environmental factors on communities.
- Economic Development: The process of improving living standards, infrastructure, and economic output in a region or country.
- Air Pollution Policies: Government initiatives and regulations aimed at reducing air pollution and improving air quality.