Did you know that breathing Nairobi’s air is equivalent to smoking 1.5 cigarettes per day, or 45 cigarettes per month, based on PM2.5 exposure levels?

As we go about our daily routines, an invisible threat lingers, one that quietly affects our health and well-being. Air quality, often overlooked, is fundamental to a safe and healthy environment. Nairobi’s rapid urbanisation, coupled with increasing industrial activity, has led to a worrying decline in air quality. The air we breathe carries pollutants with severe long-term consequences for public health.

What Is Air Quality and Why Does It Matter?

Air quality measures how clean or polluted the air is, influenced by pollutants such as particulate matter (PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and ozone (O3). These pollutants stem from sources like vehicle emissions, industrial waste, and open burning of refuse. Poor air quality not only causes respiratory illnesses but also reduces visibility and contributes to mental fatigue. Yet, despite its profound impact, we rarely stop to consider how the air we inhale affects our well-being.

How Does Poor Air Quality Affect Health?

Nairobi’s air pollution presents a serious health risk. The fact that breathing in the city’s air is comparable to smoking 1.5 cigarettes daily underscores the scale of the problem. Prolonged exposure to polluted air increases the likelihood of respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and chronic lung diseases. It also elevates the risk of heart disease and stroke. Vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and those living in informal settlements near major roads and industrial areas, are particularly at risk.

This crisis is not abstract; it is already affecting our daily lives. The rise in respiratory illnesses and cardiovascular diseases in Nairobi is a direct consequence of poor air quality. However, solutions exist. By improving public transport, curbing industrial emissions, and implementing better waste management practices, we can significantly enhance air quality and protect public health.

What Can We Do to Improve Air Quality?

Addressing air pollution is a collective responsibility. Individuals, communities, and policymakers all have a role to play. Understanding the sources and effects of pollution allows us to take meaningful action. Raising awareness is the first step towards a healthier and more sustainable Nairobi.

Investing in cleaner public transport, promoting renewable energy, and enforcing stricter emissions regulations are critical measures. By supporting and advocating for these changes, we can ensure cleaner air for future generations.

Take Action: Small Steps Towards Cleaner Air

• Start conversations with friends and family about air quality and its impact on health.
• Opt for public transport, cycling, or walking where possible to reduce vehicle emissions.
• Reduce reliance on wood and charcoal for cooking in favour of cleaner energy alternatives.
• Share this message with a friend and let them know about air pollution.