Air pollution causes over 7 million deaths annually and contributes to widening health inequalities. As the global health community gathers for the WHO Second Global Conference on Air Pollution and Health, this editorial published in the European Respiratory Journal calls for bold, coordinated action across sectors to address the health impacts of air pollution.

The piece introduces five “clean air prescriptions” aimed at health professionals, urging them to lead advocacy efforts, integrate clean air considerations into health practice, and push for evidence-based policy reforms. The call to action extends to governments, donors, and the private sector to make firm political commitments toward clean air for all.

With nearly 50 million voices already behind the clean air movement, the message is clear: every breath counts. This editorial reinforces the urgent need to protect lung health, reduce healthcare costs, and combat climate change through clean air policies.

Let’s work together to ensure that the right to breathe clean air becomes a global reality.