Air pollution in Amazon rainforest worse than big cities like London and Beijing, new data shows

New data from Greenpeace International reveals that air pollution in the Amazon rainforest is worse than in major cities like London and Beijing. Residents of the Amazon are exposed to higher levels of toxic PM2.5 particulate matter than those in São Paulo, Beijing, or London. The primary cause of this severe pollution is human-set fires used to clear forest for cattle ranching and pasturelands. These fires release harmful smoke, leading to significant health consequences for the Amazon's 50 million residents, including premature death, acute bronchitis, and cardiovascular conditions. Children, infants, and the elderly are particularly vulnerable. Greenpeace reports tens of thousands of hospitalizations and early deaths across the Amazon region due to this pollution, with some areas exceeding World Health Organization guidelines by over 20 times. The fires also negatively impact wildlife, with studies indicating significant harm to jaguars and a majority of Amazon species suffering consequences. The rainforest's role as a ... download the app to read more