The hardest hit

As the environment around us deteriorates, the youngest and most vulnerable in our society are paying the highest price. One of the most alarming consequences of climate change is the increase in respiratory issues among children. Rising temperatures and pollution levels are contributing to poor air quality, exacerbating conditions like asthma and bronchitis. Research shows that children are more susceptible to these conditions owing to their developing lungs and higher breathing rates. Another considerable threat is malnutrition. Climate change is disrupting agricultural productivity, leading to food insecurity.

The result is malnutrition, which stunts growth of the children and hampers their cognitive development. Water-borne diseases are also on the rise because of extreme weather events and flooding. Contaminated water supplies have become breeding grounds for diseases such as cholera and diarrhoea, which pose a higher risk to children. Children are also at greater risk of heat stress as temperatures rise. As a society, we cannot afford to ignore these issues any longer. Governments and individuals must take decisive action to mitigate climate change and protect our children.

Tania Shahjahan

Qambar Shahdadkot