Published on 27 October 2025

Learning Journey on Air Pollution, Climate and Health – Session 2

On October 15, 2025, the CDE Network hosted the second session of a two-part learning journey exploring the links between air pollution, climate and health.

Air Pollution in Harbin, China

Event Summary

Air pollution is a major driver of climate change and a leading cause of premature deaths worldwide. To strengthen cross-regional learning on this topic, the SDC’s Network on Climate Change, Disaster Risk Reduction and Environment (CDE) organised the second session of its Learning Journey on Clean Air, Climate and Health on 15 October 2025. The online event brought together experts and partners from Latin America, South and Southeast Asia, China and Mongolia to exchange practical experiences on improving air quality while achieving climate and health co-benefits.

  • In Latin America, the Climate and Clean Air in Latin American Cities Programme (CALAC+) illustrated how the introduction of soot-free and low-carbon urban transport and cleaner construction machinery in four capital cities contributes to significant reductions in black carbon and greenhouse gas emissions.
  • From India, the Clean Air Project (CAP India) showcased its collaboration with local governments in four cities to establish emission inventories, test clean mobility and construction solutions, and raise public awareness on air pollution.
  • The Southeast Asia Climate and Clean Air Initiative (SEACAI) presented a new phase of regional cooperation within ASEAN, focusing on mitigating short-lived climate pollutants and managing transboundary haze through joint policy and pilot measures.
  • In China, researchers from the Swiss Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI) showcased the effects of the Clean Air China Programme (CAC), which has developed real-time source apportionment methods that allow faster identification of pollution sources and support more responsive policymaking.
  • Finally, in Mongolia, SDC’s long-term engagement through energy efficiency and public health projects (Public Investment in Energy Efficiency - PIE and Air Pollution Impact on Health) demonstrated tangible results: reduced indoor air pollution, lower energy use, and improved health outcomes for children and families.

The session concluded with a reflection on how SDC’s regional programmes are advancing a shared agenda that connects air quality, climate action and human health. Participants were invited to continue learning and sharing experiences through the CDE Knowledge Platform on Air Pollution and contact the focal points in this field from Latin America, Southeast Asia, India and China.

Slides (English)

Recordings (English & Spanish)

Learning Journey - Clean Air, Climate and Health - Session 2

Whole session

Recorrido de Apendizaje: Aire Limpio, Salud y Clima - Sesion 2

Versión completa