Youth for Better Health and Cleaner Air - Workshop Highlights

On the September 6, 2024 on the occassion of International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies, Vital Strategies joined forces with the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) in India, USAID, and Health Volunteers to launch an impactful workshop under the CleanerAirAndBetterHealth project. This initiative aimed to empower young leaders to take active roles in reducing air pollution, promoting awareness, and envisioning a future with cleaner air and healthier communities. Supported by CEEW and led by notable figures like Soumitri Das, Sonia D. Henam, and Anuradha Jain, the event laid the groundwork for a sustainable and healthier environment.

Reflecting on this incredible day, participants took to social media, sharing how the YouthForCleanerAirAndBetterHealth workshop resonated with them. Hosted by @NCDCMoHFW and @VitalStrat with support from @USAID and @volhealth under the CABH project, the workshop was a powerful reminder of the urgency needed to combat air pollution. The collaborative spirit and thought-provoking discussions brought hope and optimism for the journey ahead, reminding everyone that by uniting efforts, meaningful change is achievable.

Health Volunteers and Youth Engagement

In preparation for this day, Health Volunteers mobilized young volunteers who were eager to learn about the complexities of air pollution and the role they could play in tackling it. This workshop highlighted the collective impact youth can make in spreading awareness and fighting air pollution together.

Youth for Better Health and Cleaner Air

The Youth for Better Health and Cleaner Air event, also known as Youth Charcha, was facilitated by Hiba Siddiqui and Faraz Zaidi. Held on September 6, 2024, from 10 AM to 2 PM, the event brought together changemakers who explored air pollution’s profound effects on health. The event featured expert-led discussions, youth-driven dialogues, and interactive tools like Mentimeter, creating an engaging environment for participants to express ideas and concerns.

Youth for Better Health and Cleaner Air - Workshop Highlights

The Youth for Cleaner Air and Better Health workshop, held on September 6, 2024, at the NCDC New Auditorium in New Delhi, was an inspiring convergence of young leaders, environmental experts, and public health advocates. Organized as part of the National Programme on Climate Change and Human Health (NPCCHH), the agenda was rich with insights and initiatives aimed at empowering youth to take active roles in combating air pollution and advocating for public health.

The event began with Welcome Remarks by Dr. Aakash Shrivastava, Head of the Centre for Environmental and Occupational Health at NCDC, followed by Opening Remarks from Dr. Anil Kumar, Principal Advisor at NCDC. The Keynote Address by Dr. Atul Goel, Director-General of Health Services and Director of NCDC, set the tone for the workshop, emphasizing the critical role youth play in the fight against climate change and its impact on health.

Youth volunteers shared their perspectives during the Youth Engagement for Clean Air session, while an NPCCHH/NCDC representative provided an overview of the national program’s objectives on climate and health. In a thought-provoking panel titled Catalysing Action: Engagement for Action on Air Pollution and Health, moderated by Rishi Banshiwal from Health Volunteers, panelists Mrs. Veenu Joon, Scientist E from MoEFCC, and Ms. Tarunima Bajpai, an environmental activist, highlighted urgent strategies for pollution mitigation.

Youth participants further engaged in breakout sessions that explored transformative actions for cleaner air, education and awareness on health impacts, and community-based volunteerism. The workshop concluded with Next Steps and Closing Remarks from Dr. Aniket Chowdhury of NPCCHH/NCDC, leaving attendees with actionable insights and a renewed commitment to drive change in their communities. And they were engaged in the following activities.

- Sargam Riyaaz Session: The event started with a vocal exercise using the classical notes of Sa-Re-Ga-Ma, illustrating lung capacity and the effects of air pollution on respiratory health.

- Personal Narratives: Participants shared personal experiences with air pollution, bringing the topic to life with real stories and emphasizing the need for action.

- Interactive Polls with Mentimeter: Youth participants voiced their opinions and observations on topics like pollution sources, health impacts, and actionable steps to reduce pollution.

Here are some key insights gathered:

  - Primary Sources of Air Pollution in Delhi:

    - Heavy industries in the NCR region (12+ votes)

    - Vehicles (11+ votes)

    - Other contributors: stubble burning, firecrackers, air conditioners, garbage burning

 

  - Health Impacts of Air Pollution:

    - Heart disease, lung ailments, lethargy, and even depression (7+ votes)

    - Respiratory issues including bronchitis, sinusitis, asthma, and breathing difficulties (6+ votes)

    - Concerns such as skin diseases, developmental issues in children, and increased cancer risk.

  - Major Air Pollutants and Their Health Impacts:

    - Pollutants like PM2.5, PM10, NOx, SO2, and CO were linked to severe respiratory and cardiovascular issues.

  - Individual and Community Actions:

    - Using public transport, stopping stubble burning, implementing stricter emissions standards, and supporting renewable energy (7+ votes)

    - Additional actions included carpooling, cycling, and sustainable living.

  - Consequences of Inaction:

    - The potential future painted a harsh reality—chronic health issues, environmental collapse, and economic strain if action isn’t taken.

- Closing Reflections and Commitments: The workshop concluded with participants reflecting on the day and pledging personal commitments to improve air quality in their communities.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

The Youth for Better Health and Cleaner Air event was more than just a discussion; it was a call to action. Participants left inspired and empowered, armed with knowledge, a shared responsibility, and the determination to lead the charge for cleaner air and better health. Their personal commitments and reflections signify a willingness to work towards a brighter, healthier future—proving that when it comes to environmental health, the youth are the true torchbearers of change.

Let’s continue to push for CleanerAirAndBetterHealth and remember that every effort counts toward ensuring blue skies and a healthier world for all. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in our communities.

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