We have no cities with air quality meeting WHO standards!

According to the latest statement from the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately one-quarter of global deaths occur due to environmental factors. According to the WHO, factors such as air pollution, water and sanitation issues, heat waves and extreme weather events exacerbated by climate change, exposure to harmful chemicals, and toxic substances in workplaces lead to negative health impacts.

According to a report by Ceyda Erenoğlu from Habertürk, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Cavit Işık Yavuz, a faculty member at the Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health, emphasizes that environmental pollution is triggered particularly by human-induced activities and waste. Air, water, and soil pollution constitute the primary types of environmental pollution. In particular, various chemicals, dust, and gases that cause air pollution; the contamination of water resources; the damage to seas and oceans by plastic and oil waste; and the contamination of soil with industrial waste and radioactive materials are among the significant sources of pollution. Furthermore, noise pollution and risks encountered in workplaces also contribute to environmental health problems.

TRIGGERS CANCER

Deaths related to non-communicable diseases, in particular, are among the most prominent consequences of environmental pollution. Diseases such as heart disease, chronic respiratory diseases, cancer, accidents and injuries, stroke, and diabetes emerge as common results of environmental pollution.

40 THOUSAND DEATHS PER YEAR

The situation in Turkey is similarly alarming. Air pollution causes an estimated more than 40 thousand deaths per year. Industrial zones, areas with intensive mining activities, and large cities stand out as regions where environmental pollution is concentrated.

Places such as the Dilovası Region and the Ergene River, in particular, reveal the severity of industrial-based pollution. For this reason, special attention must be paid to industrial-intensive regions, urban areas, and regions where environmental destruction is intense.

CITIES WITH THE MOST POLLUTED AIR

Among the cities in the worst condition in terms of air pollution in Turkey are Batman, Iğdır, Ağrı, Şırnak, and Malatya.

Taking social and legal steps in the fight against environmental pollution is of great importance. However, in a system where economic preferences take precedence over human and environmental health, the challenges of the environmental struggle also increase.

In conclusion, protecting the environment and ensuring the balance of the ecosystem is of vital importance for a healthy life. A world where clean air and water are everyone's right and natural resources are used sustainably is indispensable for health and well-being.

News Source: 12punto