Climate Change & Children’s Health: Air Quality

Human-caused climate change is worsening air pollution by increasing wildfires, pollen, and extreme heat.

Children are among the most vulnerable to the health impacts from air pollution, and exposure (especially to wildfire smoke) can have significant, life-long impacts.

Air quality will likely continue to decline as the planet warms — and children could experience even worse health impacts with continued warming, including more asthma diagnoses.

Parents and caregivers can protect children’s health, now and in the future, by minimizing exposure to air pollution and supporting a transition away from burning fossil fuels.