In 2023 the World Heart Federation was proud to begin engagement in a new series of activities in partnership with the Clean Air Fund (CAF) through their Health Grant programme. CAF is providing support for WHF to engage in research and advocacy on air pollution (AP) and CVD across a two-year implementation period.
The global cardiovascular community is keen to address the impact that air pollution has on heart health. Through our air pollution strategy, WHF has started a programme of translating science into policy to influence agencies, governments and policy makers to make air pollution-related heart disease a priority and to identify interventions to reduce AP and its impact on CVD. This grant is likewise aligned with all three pillars of CAF’s health strategy (evidence, advocacy and capacity-building) and will mobilise the CVD community as key stakeholders within global health to convene expertise and evidence, undertake advocacy and develop capacity-building tools and programmes. It enables WHF to further develop resources to build capacity of our members to raise awareness and advocate for policy change in support of improved air quality. WHF is also using the opportunities afforded by our Official Relations with the WHO to advocate towards Member States around Governing Bodies meetings to strengthen global efforts to improve air quality, improving the evidence base and engaging policymakers at national level.
On 19 and 20 March 2024, the World Heart Federation was delighted to take part in a workshop for recipients of 2023 Clean Air Fund Health Grants. Together with other grantees from around the world and representatives of the World Health Organization, WHF was invited to share our vision on air pollution and health, present our recent and ongoing work in this area, and brainstorm ways to accelerate action for cleaner air and healthier environments. This vision includes recognition of AP as a prevention priority in global health, positioning the CVD community as a global ally for clean air, and achieving higher prominence for clean air on the political agendas of global health, environment, and international development by mobilising the cardiovascular health community at the national, regional, and global level.
WHF is delighted to be working closely with the WHO, CAF, and fellow grantees on an exciting series of engagements in the lead-up to the Second Global Conference on Air Pollution and Health. We look forward to sharing new research, surveys, tools, and reporting on AP and CVD with our Members, so be sure to follow WHF emails and web updates for the latest!
