Study links fire-related air pollution to 1.5 million deaths annually, mostly in developing countries

A new study reveals that air pollution from fires is linked to over 1.5 million deaths annually, primarily in developing countries. The research highlights that climate change is likely to increase the frequency and intensity of wildfires. The study attributes around 450,000 deaths from heart disease and 220,000 from respiratory issues to fire-related air pollution from 2000 to 2019. Most deaths occur in low and middle-income countries, with nearly 40% in sub-Saharan Africa. Researchers emphasize the need for financial and technological support for affected regions. This study follows recent UN climate talks and comes amid a national emergency in Ecuador due to severe forest fires.