Breathing in polluted air is so harmful, it can actually have a greater impact on humans lifespan than smoking, according to just-released data.

The latest report by Air Quality Life Index (AQLI), published on Aug. 29, analysed how fine particulate matter (PM2.5) lingering in the air, such as smoke and dust, has a profound impact on human life expectancy and health when there’s consistent exposure.

The report, which used 2021 data, stated particulate pollution can reduce the global average life expectancy by 2.3 years.

That’s slightly higher than tobacco use, which reduces global life expectancy by 2.2 years.

Read more: ctvnews.ca

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