8th International Day of Clean Air for blue skies

The eighth International Day of Clean Air for blue skies takes place on 7 September 2026. 

The economic case for air pollution action has been outlined in the past, but never with the strength that it will have during this year's International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies. 

New findings brought by UNEP and its convened Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC) will be at the center of the 2026 Clean Air Day campaign, with the launch of a UNEP Spotlight Report, based on the global economic assessment on climate and clean air action.

The report examines the economic benefits of combined air pollution and climate action, assesses the costs and benefits of 25 integrated measures, and identifies policy and financing reforms that can accelerate implementation.

Air pollution has long contributed to death and disease, undermining economic prospects and community well-being. Many sources of air pollution, such as the burning of fossil fuels and biomass, also contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, causing our planet to warm.  

Like climate change, air pollution affects everyone but impacts pregnant people, babies and children, older people, those living in poverty, and historically marginalized communities. The enormity and immediacy of these challenges cannot be ignored.

This year’s observance emphasizes the undeniable economic case of integrated climate and clean air action to support healthier populations and economic prosperity.

Join the observation of the International Day of Clean Air for blue skies by sharing your actions on social media using the hashtag #CleanAirDay.