Health as the “Pulse” of the New Urban Agenda

Health risks of unsustainable urbanization and health benefits of sustainable urban development makes health the "pulse" of the New Urban Agenda. Health-focused strategies, tools, and awareness raising can help drive fast action in cities that care about the health of their citizens. Improving urban air quality -- which fails WHO guidelines standards in 80% of large cities worldwide, is one critical ''nexus'' point for sustainable development. Improved air quality can reduce the death toll from stroke, heart disease, lung cancer and respiratory illnesses. Many sustainable transport, housing, energy and green space measures that improve air quality also reduce traffic injury, foster more physical activity, healthier diets, and more gender equity. Presentations will set the stage for launch of the new WHO-led "BreatheLife - Clean Air, Healthy Future" Campaign at Habitat III (www.breathelife2030.org).The campaign, in collaboration with the Climate and Clean Air Coalition, aims to raise public awareness about air pollution's health impacts, and how cities can take fast action to reduce air pollution for health and climate benefits.