Eleven countries in the Western Pacific region have partnered with the World Health Organization to launch two major initiatives aimed at tackling the rising health impacts of air pollution and climate-related heat. Announced at a regional forum in Singapore and Seoul on 1 July 2026, the programs focus on strengthening policy coordination, scientific collaboration, and public health protection across Asia-Pacific.
The first initiative is a Western Pacific Regional Road Map on Air Quality and Health designed to help countries integrate health considerations into air quality and climate policies. Aligned with global WHO frameworks, the roadmap will support stronger institutions, better use of health evidence in policymaking, and coordinated action to reduce air pollution exposure. By placing health at the center of environmental decision-making, it aims to reduce illness and premature deaths linked to polluted air while supporting long-term climate resilience strategies.
The second initiative introduces a regional Community of Practice on Air Pollution and Health Impact Assessment. This platform will connect governments, researchers, WHO collaborating centers, and technical experts to share knowledge and strengthen analytical capacity. It will also promote peer learning, training, and mentorship, helping countries better evaluate how air pollution and rising heat affect public health and how policy interventions can reduce risks effectively. The initiative is supported by academic collaboration with Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, reinforcing the role of science and innovation in shaping public health strategies.
Air pollution remains one of the leading environmental health risks worldwide, with Asia and the Pacific among the most affected regions. Rising global temperatures are intensifying these risks, particularly for vulnerable groups such as children, older adults, and people with chronic illnesses. Health experts emphasize that combining air quality management with climate adaptation is essential to reduce long-term disease burden and improve population health outcomes.
The initiatives bring together eleven participating countries across the region: Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Japan, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Malaysia, Mongolia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Viet Nam.
This regional collaboration marks a significant step toward coordinated action on air pollution and climate-related health risks. Led by the World Health Organization and supported by regional academic partners, the initiatives aim to accelerate evidence-based policies for cleaner air and healthier communities.
