Malta has finally declared a climate emergency along with countries like France, England, and Canada. This was announced after pressure was made from youth and environmental organisations on the government.
But what does this mean?
The “Climate Emergency” ensures that the government prioritises the environment and ensures its protection and safekeeping. This initiative is a response to the pollution, produced by the harmful effects of green-house gases and the burning of fossil fuels which have caused serious consequences on the environment we live in. There has also been a large increase in the amount of air pollution in Malta resulting in a high Air Quality Index. This has been partly brought about by deforestation. Trees are our natural source of oxygen, which is necessary to sustain life.
The pollution and lack of air quality leads to a number of serious respiratory conditions, affecting a range of population from the young to the elderly.
Children being exposed to low air qualities are developing Asthma more frequently. Asthma is an upper respiratory tract condition where the trachea narrows and there is an overproduction of mucus which covers it. There are many types of asthma, brought about by; exercise, allergies and non-allergic. Symptoms of asthma include wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath. Asthma may range from mild to life threatening. It may also develop in adults and is known as Adult-onset Asthma. It may also develop as a result of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
Polluted air is filled with pollutants which are harmful to human respiration. These range from nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide and other irritants. Irritants are tiny air particles which when inhaled damage the lungs causing COPD. This occurs after someone is exposed to high quantities over a period of time. COPD is a term used to describe a number of lung illnesses ranging from chronic bronchitis to emphysema. These diseases cause breathing to be laborious whilst commonly suffering from exacerbations and coughing fits.
Studies carried out in Hong Kong have shown that an increase in lung diseases causes a strain on health care services due to an increase in cost. COPD as an example is incurable, however, its symptoms can be managed with appropriate treatment.
This declaration has been a long time coming and Malta has finally decided to take action. It is our generation that needs to step up and take initiative. Come and get your voice heard with us and other students on Quad to fight for change. The future is in our hands.