WMO participated in the High-Level Assembly of the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC) which focused on reductions of short-lived climate pollutants to improve air quality and public health. The meeting 20 May brought together both Environment and Health Ministers. WMO hosted the science-policy dialogues which discussed the way how the scientific knowledge can be converted in the policy actions.
WMO is a member of the CCAC since 2014 because its Global Atmosphere Watch network coordinates observations of short-lived climate pollutants including tropospheric ozone and aerosols, as well as long-lived greenhouse gases. Through its Climate and Health Office, established jointly with the World Health Organization, WMO is also seeking to ensure that weather and climate related hazards are better integrated into health management.
“Long-lived greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, are the major driver of climate change,” said WMO Secretary-General Michel Jarraud at the opening reception for the CCAC Assembly.
“Short-lived climate pollutants have effects on human health, ecosystem services and food security. Measures proposed by the CCAC on the short-lived pollutants should be complementary to the actions on long-lived greenhouse gases to reach climate target of keeping temperature increases to under 2°C,” said Mr Jarraud.
The opening reception at technical discussions were held at WMO headquarters, which also hosted a BREATHE and 3 Dimensional artwork exhibition to stimulate reflections on the importance of addressing air pollution, health and climate change.
“It is symbolic that this event is being held at WMO, as WMO is the authoritative voice on the state of climate,” said Mr Jarraud.
