UK government apologizes for death of girl linked to air pollution crisis

The UK government has apologized for the death of 9-year-old Ella Adoo-Kissi-Debrah, who is the first person in the UK to have air pollution listed as a cause of death. This follows a lawsuit by her mother, highlighting air pollution's impact on health. Ella suffered from severe asthma and died in 2013 after being exposed to high levels of vehicle emissions near her home. A second inquest in 2020 confirmed that air pollution contributed to her death, prompting the government to acknowledge the public health crisis. As part of a settlement, the government expressed condolences and committed to improving air quality. Ella's mother has been assured of continued collaboration with officials to address air pollution issues in the UK.