Climate and air quality: WMO warns wildfires threaten clean‑air gains

Climate and air quality: a fragile feedback loop

The World Meteorological Organization’s latest assessment warns that surging wildfire emissions and record‑breaking heatwaves are eroding progress on air‑quality goals.

Scientists traced a direct correlation between rising temperatures and spikes in particulate matter, noting that smoke plumes now linger ↓ 15% longer over populated regions.

"If we ignore the climate‑air quality nexus, we jeopardize health targets worldwide," said WMO chief Petteri Taalas.

Projected climate models show heatwave frequency could climb ↑ 22% by 2030, amplifying ozone formation and straining monitoring networks.

Policy makers risk falling short of the Reuters‑cited 2025 clean‑air milestones unless mitigation strategies are tightened, experts say.

Further details are available in the full WMO report, which emphasizes integrated climate‑air quality planning as essential for safeguarding both human health and ecosystems.