News 25 November 2025
Check out the latest news articles, research, insights and efforts to tackle air pollution around the world.
Lancet names fossil fuels as main driver of illness
The recent Lancet Countdown on Climate and Health report emphasised how cutting air pollution can save lives – with cleaner energy preventing 160,000 premature deaths every year since 2010. As a threat to both climate and health, tackling air pollution from burning fossil fuels delivers wins for the environment, protects people’s health and supports sustainable economic growth.
Council funding for air quality drops 99% in United Kingdom
UK campaign group Mums for Lungs reports local authorities’ funding to tackle air pollution fell from £225 million in 2020/21 to £1.5 million this year. The cuts will make it difficult for local councils to deliver clean air measures to residents. Campaigners are urging the UK government to outline a clearer, long-term plan to integrate air quality and transport policy, and restore the funding.
Bogotá wins the Earthshot Prize to clean our air
The city of Bogotá has been recognised for its efforts to clean its air, winning the 2025 Earthshot Prize. This achievement highlights the city’s innovative approaches and commitment to improving air quality for its near 8 million residents.
Wildfires and super pollutants: a vicious cycle
Wildfires release black carbon and contribute to the formation of tropospheric ozone – super pollutants that cause major health problems and trap heat in the atmosphere, accelerating global warming. Tackling these pollutants is one of the fastest ways to mitigate climate change, according to Forbes. The city of Bogotá, part of our Breathe Cities initiative, is integrating fire management and prevention into its air quality plans, delivering quick wins for the climate and public health.
Funding remains a barrier for super pollutant action
Securing funding for initiatives to reduce super pollutants like black carbon and tropospheric ozone remains a significant challenge. Unless policies to cut emissions are incorporated into existing climate frameworks and funding mechanisms, countries will struggle to achieve their ambitions to mitigate warming. Organisations like the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC), which launched a Super Pollutant Country Accelerator at COP30, are addressing these funding gaps.
