Observed annually on 7 September, the International Day of Clean Air for blue skies draws attention to the importance of air quality for human health, ecosystems and the climate, as well as to the need for concerted action at local, national and international levels.
In 2026, the campaign highlights the economic, social and environmental benefits of integrated action on air quality and climate. This year’s observance is marked by the release of the report Hidden assets: The economic and health case for climate and clean air action, prepared by the United Nations Environment Programme and the Climate and Clean Air Coalition. The report analyses the costs and benefits of 25 integrated measures and identifies public policy reforms and financing mechanisms capable of accelerating their implementation.
Many sources of air pollution, including the combustion of fossil fuels and biomass, also contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. Tackling these two challenges together can therefore protect health, reduce climate risks and generate economic and social benefits.
Science to support air quality decision-making
At CESAM, air quality research combines atmospheric modelling, environmental monitoring, assessment of exposure and health effects, and the study of interactions between pollution and climate change. This expertise is primarily brought together through the thematic lines Climate Change, Adaptation and Mitigation (TL1) and Environmental Management, Pollution and Modelling (TL2), as well as the research clusters RC3 – Ocean and Atmospheric Modelling and RC5 – Environmental Monitoring, Health and Risk Assessment.
Among the projects currently under way is AIRTIP – Addressing the challenges of future air quality regulation in Portugal. Running from 2025 to 2028, the project aims to anticipate the new requirements of the European Air Quality Directive through an approach combining climate and air quality modelling, health impact assessment, field monitoring, and the engagement of citizens and decision-makers. Its objectives include assessing compliance with the new limit values, identifying areas where enhanced monitoring will be required, and producing recommendations for air quality management in Portugal.
Also running from 2025 to 2028, the HEART – Effects of air quality on the health of the urban population living in Portugal using individual records project investigates the relationship between long-term exposure to air pollution and the health of the urban population. The project combines air quality monitoring and modelling with individual clinical data, with particular attention to pollutants that are not yet regulated, such as ultrafine particles and black carbon.
From knowledge to action
The connection between science, public policy and action is also at the heart of the round table “Clean Air and Blue Skies: From Challenges to Actions for Better Air Quality”, taking place today at 2:30 p.m. at Fábrica Centro Ciência Viva de Aveiro. The event brings together researchers, public authorities and companies to discuss the new European requirements, remaining knowledge gaps, and the responses needed in areas such as emerging pollutants, agriculture and mobility.
By integrating modelling, monitoring, health impact assessment and the participation of different sectors of society, CESAM contributes to transforming scientific knowledge into useful tools and recommendations to improve air quality and support more effective public policies.