UN warns wildfires, heatwaves threaten air quality and health
The World Meteorological Organization warns that climate change is increasing the frequency of wildfires and heatwaves, which in turn degrade air quality. These events release toxic PM2.5 particles that pose significant risks to human health and ecosystems.
Why it matters
The intersection of climate change and air pollution creates a feedback loop that threatens global health standards and environmental policy.
Wildfires and heatwaves, which generate microscopic airborne pollutants, risk undermining international efforts to improve air quality, protect human health and safeguard nature, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said on Monday (September 7, 2026).
The United Nations’ weather and climate agency underlined the links between air pollution and climate change, which scientists say is leading to more frequent and more intense heatwaves and wildfires.
“Extreme wildfires are increasing, leading to big health consequences because of the high toxicity of smoke,” the WMO said in a statement accompanying its latest annual Air Quality and Climate Bulletin.
“Whilst regulations in Europe and North America have reduced industrial and transport PM2.5 emissions, exposure to fire-related PM2.5 has increased.” the statement added.
Particulate matter PM2.5 is composed of microscopic particles and droplets of less than 2.5 micrometres in diameter, which is a health hazard because it can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream.
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