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International Day of Clean Air

Breathe easy and join us in celebrating International Day of Clean Air - let's work together to protect our planet and improve air quality for all.

Monday

September 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATESeptember 7

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYPublic Health

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

On September 7, people all around the world come together to celebrate and raise awareness for clean air on International Day of Clean Air. This day was established by the United Nations in 2019 to highlight the importance of clean air for our health and the environment. Did you know that air pollution is responsible for millions of premature deaths each year? That's why it's more important than ever to take action and protect our planet's air quality. So let's come together and make a positive impact on this day, whether it's by reducing our carbon footprint or simply appreciating the fresh, clean air we have access to.

TIMELINE

International Day of Clean Air Timeline

First Clean Air Act

The United States passes the Air Pollution Control Act, the nation's first piece of legislation aimed at controlling air pollution.

Formation of the EPA

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is established to protect human health and the environment, including air quality.

Rio Earth Summit

The United Nations Conference on Environment and Development popularly known as the Rio Earth Summit recognises air pollution as a major environmental issue.

World Health Organization Guidelines

The World Health Organization (WHO) publishes the first set of guidelines on Air Quality, providing scientific information on the health impacts of air pollution.

Air Quality Declared a Carcinogen

The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies outdoor air pollution as a cancer-causing agent (carcinogen).

Inauguration of International Day of Clean Air

The United Nations General Assembly establishes September 7 as the International Day of Clean Air for blue skies, emphasizing the importance of clean air for health and climate.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate International Day of Clean Air

Plant a tree

One of the best ways to improve air quality is by planting trees. Gather some friends and family and spend the day planting trees in your neighborhood or local park. Not only will you be contributing to clean air, but you'll also be beautifying your community.

TAKE

Take a bike ride

Reduce your carbon footprint and enjoy some fresh air by taking a bike ride instead of driving. You can make it a fun group activity by organizing a bike tour with friends or family.

HOST

Host a clean air movie night

Invite some friends over for a movie night dedicated to raising awareness about clean air. Screen documentaries or movies that highlight the importance of clean air and discuss ways to make a positive impact.

JOIN

Join a clean air volunteer group

Research local organizations that focus on clean air initiatives and join a volunteer group. This is a great way to get involved and make a difference in your community.

ORGANIZE

Organize a neighborhood cleanup

Gather your neighbors and organize a neighborhood cleanup day. Pick up litter, plant trees, and spread awareness about the importance of keeping our environment clean for better air quality.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why International Day of Clean Air is Important

It encourages us to take action

International Day of Clean Air serves as a reminder that we all have a responsibility to protect not only our own health, but also the health of others and the environment. This day prompts us to take action in our daily lives - from reducing emissions to recycling and more - in order to make a positive impact on air quality.

Clean air is essential for our health

Breathing in polluted air can have serious consequences for our health, such as respiratory illnesses and even lung cancer. International Day of Clean Air reminds us of the importance of clean air for our overall well-being.

Clean air helps the environment

Air pollution not only affects human health, but it also has a negative impact on the environment. By promoting clean air, we are also taking a step towards preserving our planet and reducing the effects of climate change.