Industries responsibility for global air quality

Clean air is fundamental to human health. Yet for most people, it is far from guaranteed. According to the World Health Organization, 99% of the global population is exposed to air pollution levels that exceed recommended exposure limits. For people all over the world, breathing polluted air is not an exception – it is part of everyday life.

The UN warns: air pollution threatens global health and contributes to antibiotic resistance

Extensive research links air pollution to serious health conditions such as asthma, cardiovascular disease, cancer, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease. Over recent years, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has also drawn attention to the connection between poor air quality and the growing global threat of antimicrobial resistance. UNEP has highlighted how environmental pollution, including polluted air, can contribute to conditions where antibiotic‑resistant bacteria develop and spread.

Antimicrobial resistance is recognised as one of the world’s most serious health risks. Evidence shows that environmental pollution plays an important role in this challenge, reinforcing the fact that clean air is not only a regulatory or environmental issue, it is critical to protecting human health.

Industries as both a major contributor and a critical part of the solution

Industrial activity accounts for a substantial share of global air pollution. At the same time, air quality inside factories and production facilities is often even worse than outdoors, leaving industrial workers particularly exposed.  

For industrial workers, exposure happens every day, often over many years. Dust, fumes and airborne particles generated by production processes can severely impact long‑term health if not properly controlled.  

As the connection between air pollution and antimicrobial resistance has become clearer over time, the importance of responsible industries has only increased.

Air filtration solutions that enable industrial production without negative impact on either workers’ health or the environment already exist. By controlling air inside industrial facilities and preventing emissions from escaping into surrounding communities, companies can protect workers while reducing their overall environmental impact. The solutions are available, and industry holds the key to change. What is required is a clear commitment to responsibility and active investment in clean air as a fundamental part of safe, sustainable operations.

Meeting air quality regulations while protecting workers and optimising processes

Compliance with local laws and occupational exposure limits is essential and a foundation for safe industrial operations. Nederman has extensive experience supporting industries in meeting both workplace air quality regulations and environmental legislation covering industrial air emissions.  

By helping industries stay compliant with laws and regulations, Nederman contributes to safer workplaces, healthier employees and the protection of our planet. At the same time, clean air supports operational efficiency by improving worker performance, reducing unplanned downtime and lowering energy consumption.

Clean air can no longer be optional

The United Nations has consistently highlighted polluted air as a growing threat to global health, with recognised links to a wide range of diseases, as well as the growing global threat of antibiotic resistance. Clean air should be a given – yet air pollution continues to affect nearly everyone, everywhere.

The good news is that change is possible. With the right solutions and the right partner, industry can protect its workforce, reduce emissions and be part of the solution.

Contact our clean air experts to get personal guidance on how you can create a safer workplace and actively reduce harmful air pollution – for your people and for the planet.