Updated On: 12 July, 2024 06:55 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
By fostering youth engagement and mainstreaming climate initiatives, a culture of change can be induced that transforms Mumbai into a cleaner, more sustainable city

Image for representational purposes only. Photo Courtesy: iStock
In the face of Mumbai`s deteriorating Air Quality Index, it is imperative that we acknowledge the urgency of the situation. Poor air quality poses a significant threat to the health and well-being of our citizens but also undermines the city`s overall sustainability. To tackle this problem effectively, there are no short-term solutions, we need a comprehensive approach that addresses various aspects of urban life.
The primary cause of declining air quality is closely tied to climate change and rise of carbon emissions. To mitigate this, a critical long-term solution is to initiate education and awareness campaigns at the grassroots level. Climate change education is crucial, as studies indicate that providing climate education to 16 percent of high school students could lead to a substantial reduction in carbon dioxide emissions by 2050. This is a significant step, especially given India`s demographic dividend, which demands the active involvement of the younger generation in climate action.