1.

Introduction to Chairs

Gabriel Alzamora Vaquer

Gabriel has recently graduated from his Master of European Studies at King’s College
London and Sciences Po. In 2024, he graduated from his bachelor of Liberal Arts with a
major in Politics and a minor in Film Studies. Born and raised in Mallorca, Spain, Gabriel
moved to the UK to undertake his university studies and unexpectedly, continue his MUN
career that started back in high school. Gabriel’s first MUN conference in the UK was
LIMUN 2022, which confirmed his passion for MUN. Since then, Gabriel has participated in
various MUN conferences across the UK circuit and has served as KCLUNA Training
Officer, USG Chairing and DSG for LIMUN 2026.

Amiiratu Muthiia Wisasani (Raiya)

Amiiratu, or Raiya, is a registered pharmacist with a background in Pharmaceutical Sciences

and Technology from Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB). Throughout her university
years, she was deeply involved in MUN, serving as a delegate, chair, and member of the
Secretariat for different national MUN conferences. These experiences shaped her skills and
gave her some of her most meaningful friendships. She currently works remotely as a Health
Strategic Insight Analyst, and is genuinely excited to return to the MUN circuit to connect
with a new generation of delegates.

Simon Sterck

Hi everyone! I’m Simon from Belgium. I recently graduated with a Research Master of Laws
at KU Leuven and will begin a PhD this September. I also spent a semester on exchange at
the University of Tokyo. MUN has been a big part of my university years, both as a delegate
and as a chair, and I had the pleasure of chairing DISEC at the 20th AYIMUN conference
earlier this year in Kuala Lumpur. Outside MUN, I play violin, like to read and served as
Belgium’s UN Youth Delegate on Sustainable Development, representing Belgian youth at
the United Nations and COP28. I can’t wait to meet you all and look forward to an exciting
committee!

Ainhoa Comino Vaquerizo

Hi guys! Ainhoa here. Born and raised in Madrid, I completed a Bachelor of Business
Administration with a major in Management and a minor in Psychology at Hult International
Business School before moving on to an MSc in Political Science (Global Politics) at the
LSE. Throughout my MUN journey, I have worn all sorts of hats: delegate, chair, faculty
advisor, secretariat member and Secretary-General of LIMUN 2025. Currently, I am working
as a Strategy and Operations Analyst at a multinational consulting firm in Madrid. Despite

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having dived into the working life already, I look forward to continuing giving back to the
MUN community, in hope that it will give you just as much as it has given me. See you very
soon!

Julia Alexandra Ibe

Mabuhay, this is Julia Ibe from the Philippines. I am currently pursuing a Master of Public
Administration at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines. I lead community
engagement initiatives in a higher education institution through volunteerism and outreach
programs in the Philippines. Since 2019, I have actively participated in Model United Nations
conferences across Southeast Asia as an organizer, delegate, and Chair, receiving recognition
for my contributions and outstanding performance. These experiences have shaped my
professional journey and reinforced my belief in the power of diplomacy to promote
cross-cultural understanding, collaboration, and meaningful change. I am looking forward to
meeting the delegates of the World Health Organization and hoping to have a fruitful learning
session with all of you. Best of luck, delegates!

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 2. Introduction to The Committee
The World Health Organization (WHO), established on April 7, 1948, emerged as a direct
response to the global health crisis following World War II. This date is now commemorated
as World Health Day. As the world sought recovery and stability, the United Nations (UN)
recognized the need for a specialized health organization to address immediate health
emergencies and work toward long-term global health improvements. The WHO operates
through six semi-autonomous regional offices and over 150 field offices across the globe.
These regional offices, which provide tailored support to specific areas, are located in Africa,
the Americas, South-East Asia, Europe, the Eastern Mediterranean, and the Western Pacific.
This decentralized structure allows the WHO to address regional health challenges more
effectively while maintaining a coordinated global response. With headquarters in Geneva,
Switzerland, the WHO became a leader in global health, aiming to ensure the highest possible
level of health for all people.

Figure 1. World Health Organization sign at the entrance to the organization’s headquarters
in Geneva1

In its early efforts, the WHO prioritized combating major infectious diseases such as malaria,
tuberculosis, and smallpox. The organization’s most notable early achievement was the
global eradication of smallpox in 1980, a monumental success in public health history. In
1978, the Alma-Ata Declaration emphasized the importance of Primary Health Care,
expanding the organization’s focus to include strengthening health systems, improving
nutrition, and addressing maternal and child health, particularly in developing countries.

1
Laura Clancy, “4 Facts About Americans’ Views of the World Health Organization,” Pew Research Center, January 29, 2025,
[Link]

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Partners and Budget

The World Health Organization works closely with a wide network of global partners,
including governments, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), research institutions, and
other UN agencies such as UNICEF, UNESCO, and UNEP. These partnerships are vital for
addressing complex global health challenges and achieving the goals set by the United
Nations Sustainable Development Group (UNSDG).

Figure 2. World Health Organization Budget Expenditure by Category (2026-2027)2

WHO allocates its budget across a wide range of health priorities to support its mission of
promoting global health, preventing disease, and responding to public health emergencies. It
is directed to technical programs that aim to strengthen the health system, emergency
responses, immunization, maternal and child health, and administrative operations.

WHO’s budget is funded through two main revenue streams: assessed contributions from
Member States, which are based on a country’s income and population and account for about
12% of the total budget, and voluntary contributions, which provide over 85% of the funding.
While voluntary contributions significantly support WHO’s activities, most are earmarked for
specific projects, limiting the organization's flexibility in resource allocation. Furthermore,
they also receive voluntary contributions from governments, philanthropic organizations, and
other partners, with voluntary funding accounting for the majority of expenditures. Having
said that, delegates should keep in mind that an effective budget allocation enables the

2
Elaine Ruth Fletcher, “EXCLUSIVE: WHO Cutting Up to 25% of Staff by June 2026 – But ‘Shadow Workforce of Consultants’ Is Unreported,”
Health Policy Watch, November 18, 2025,
[Link]

4
council to address evolving global health challenges while ensuring accountability and
transparency in the use of its financial resources3.

The 2022-2023 biennium budget was set at $6.12 billion, with funds allocated to key areas
such as disease prevention, emergency response, and health system development. The budget
for the 2024-2025 biennium, approved during the 2023 World Health Assembly (WHA), is
set at $6.86 billion.

Governing Structure

The World Health Assembly (WHA) is the WHO's main decision-making body, consisting of
delegates from all 194 member states. It meets annually to set policies, review programs, and
approve the organization’s budget. The WHA is responsible for appointing the
Director-General, who oversees the organization’s global operations and implements the
decisions made by the Assembly. The current Director-General is Tedros Adhanom
Ghebreyesus, who has been serving since 2017.

Figure 3. Director-General of WHO - Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus4

The Executive Board, made up of 34 members who are experts in health, is elected by the
WHA for three-year terms. The Board’s primary role is to facilitate the work of the WHA by
preparing its agenda, advising on policy, and ensuring that the WHO’s programs are carried
out effectively. The Board also provides technical input and guidance on global health
strategies.

3
World Health Organization, Programme Budget 2024–2025 (Geneva: World Health Organization, 2024), 7–11,
[Link]
4
Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, “WHO Director-General’s Address to the Seventy-seventh World Health Assembly – 27 May 2024,” World
Health Organization, May 27, 2024,
[Link]

5
Modern Challenges and Leadership

Over the decades, the WHO has faced emerging global health challenges. The 1990s and
2000s introduced new threats, including the rise of HIV/AIDS, non-communicable diseases
(NCDs) such as diabetes and heart disease, and global health crises like SARS and H1N1. In
response, the WHO broadened its efforts, addressing health security and fostering research to
tackle both infectious and chronic diseases.

Environmental health has become a major focus for the WHO, as issues like air pollution,
climate change, and industrial waste have increasingly posed risks to public health. The
organization collaborates with member states to develop and implement strategies that reduce
these environmental impacts.

One of the WHO’s most significant challenges was the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. The
organization played a crucial role in coordinating the global response, issuing guidelines,
providing technical support, and leading the COVAX initiative to ensure equitable vaccine
access, particularly in lower-income countries. This pandemic highlighted the need for
stronger global health systems and greater pandemic preparedness, further reinforcing the
WHO’s role in managing health crises.

On another note, WHO serves as the directing and coordinating authority on global health in
the UN system. Its power is merely advisory, normative, and coordinating rather than
enforcement-based. To elaborate, they develop international health standards, issues technical
guidance, supports disease surveillance, coordinates responses to health emergencies, and
assists Member States in strengthening their health systems. Given this, delegates must note
that the council cannot compel States to adopt its recommendations, enforce compliance with
health policies, impose sanctions, or intervene in a country's domestic health governance
without the state's consent. Therefore, delegates must heavily rely on its Member States’
political will, cooperation, and financial commitments of its Member States, making
international collaboration essential to achieving global health objectives5.

Current Focus and Future Directions

Today, the WHO continues to work towards universal health coverage, ensuring access to
essential health services for everyone, without financial hardship. Its Six-Point Agenda
focuses on promoting development, strengthening health systems, improving research and
evidence-based policies, enhancing partnerships, and driving overall health performance.

Looking ahead, the WHO is committed to addressing emerging global health threats,
including mental health, antimicrobial resistance, and climate change. As the world faces
evolving health challenges, the WHO remains a pivotal force in international public health,
striving for a future where everyone can live a healthier life, regardless of their location or
circumstances.

5
World Health Organization, Basic Documents, 50th ed. (Geneva: World Health Organization, 2024), 1–20; World Health Organization,
International Health Regulations (2005), 3rd ed. (Geneva: World Health Organization, 2016), 1–8.

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 3. Introduction to The Topic
Defining Key Terms:

Air Pollution: Refers to the contamination of harmful substances in the air that living
things consume, particularly gases in the atmosphere (WHO, 2021). These can cause
harmful effects on the overall ecological well-being.

Industrial Waste: Refers to the byproducts from factories and manufacturing

facilities which includes hazardous materials such as chemicals, toxins, and metals. If
disposed of incorrectly, it may find its way toward contaminating bodies of water and
soil, which will later on greatly impact public health (WHO, 2018).

Public Health: Refers to the collective efforts aimed at preventing disease,

prolonging life, and promoting well-being within communities through organized
measures (WHO, 2022). These efforts focus on addressing broad social,
environmental, and economic factors that influence population health, rather than
individual health issues.

Air pollution and industrial waste are inevitable to the status quo of our environment. It
imposes multiple threats to public health even at relatively low levels due to the exposure of a
large number of people across all stages of development. Addressing these issues is crucial to
eradicate further irreversible impacts.

Industrial activities, such as factories and manufacturing, often release pollutants into the air
during manufacturing processes, significantly contributing to air pollution. Furthermore, the
improper disposal of industrial waste can contaminate the environment, leading to soil and
water pollution (WHO, 2024). This mishandling not only amplifies air quality issues but also
poses serious health risks to communities. Over time, the cumulative effect of these
pollutants can lead to long-term health consequences, disproportionately affecting vulnerable
populations.

The topic emphasizes the interconnectedness of air pollution and industrial waste toward
public health concerns. It highlights the urgency of a comprehensive strategy to eliminate
their impact and subsequently gives focus to equity by considering the capacity of
underdeveloped communities to address these issues. This approach recognizes that
overlooking the problem can exacerbate the threats that industrial activities impose on overall
well-being, including health, economic stability, and environmental sustainability.

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 Figure 4. Infographic from Improving Urban Health Through Clean Air in Urban Settings6

Due to the emerging threats that air pollution and industrial waste are imposing, a
coordinated global response with governments, international organizations like WHO, and
industries contributing to the problem is necessary to eradicate the issues in the status quo.
Strengthening environmental policies, fostering innovations in clean technology, and
implementing sustainable waste management practices are crucial steps in mitigating the
impact. Only through collective action and long-term commitment can we reduce the harmful
effects of air pollution and industrial waste, safeguarding the well-being of future
generations.

Historical Background

Environmental neglect has led to the crisis that is being experienced globally and the issue of
air pollution and industrial waste can be deeply rooted back to the Industrial Revolution in
the 18th and 19th centuries. Rapid industrialization, especially in Europe and North America,
led to significant increases in the emission of harmful pollutants due to the use of coal and
other fossil fuels in factories and manufacturing processes. This era marked the beginning of
the modern environmental pollution crisis, with cities becoming centers of industrial activity
and suffering from the adverse effects of poor air quality and hazardous waste disposal

By the mid-20th century, the problem had worsened globally, as the use of chemicals, metals,
and synthetic materials surged, leading to even more severe environmental contamination.
Major incidents, such as the 1952 Great Smog of London, which caused thousands of deaths
due to air pollution, highlighted the deadly consequences of unchecked industrial activity. In
response, governments began implementing environmental regulations, but industrial
pollution remained a growing problem, particularly in developing nations.

6
World Health Organization, “Improving Urban Health Through Clean Air in Urban Settings,” image, World Health Organization,
[Link]

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The World Health Organization (WHO) started addressing air quality issues in the 1970s,
setting international guidelines to reduce health risks. Despite these efforts, air pollution
continues to be a critical global issue, being exacerbated by unsustainable rapid urbanization,
improper waste management, and climate change.

4. Areas of Contention
The Status Quo

The World Health Organization recognizes air pollution as a significant threat to global
public health, with both ambient (outdoor) and household pollution responsible for
approximately 7 million premature deaths each year. The sources of air pollution are diverse,
including industrial facilities, vehicles, and waste incineration, as well as household
emissions from cooking with kerosene, coal, and biomass. Industrial waste, when not
properly managed, can contaminate water sources and agricultural land, compounding public
health risks by entering the food supply.

Figure 5. Sources of Air Pollution7

The air that more than 90% of the global population breathes now exceeds WHO’s air quality
guidelines, with middle-income and least-developing states experiencing more of this adverse
7
World Health Organization, “What Are the Sources of Air Pollution?,” World Health Organization, accessed July 8, 2026,
[Link]

9
effect. Urban centers of these nations, where the population is mostly concentrated, are more
vulnerable to the health impacts of pollution which is evident due to the increased cases of
asthma, lung disease, heart disease, and cancer. Emissions from factories, transportation, and
improper disposal of industrial waste contribute to deteriorating air quality and the
contamination of water and soil, creating widespread health risks. The harmful impact of air
pollution in these areas is exacerbated by poor infrastructure and limited access to healthcare,
making it difficult for affected populations to manage or mitigate the health risks. This
burden disproportionately affects the most vulnerable groups, such as children, the elderly,
and individuals with pre-existing conditions, further straining already overburdened
healthcare systems.

Compounding the health risks are the socioeconomic disparities that exist in these areas. Poor
urban infrastructure, limited access to healthcare, and insufficient waste management systems
worsen the impact of air pollution and industrial waste, disproportionately affecting
marginalized groups. Those living in informal settlements are particularly vulnerable, as they
often reside near industrial zones and lack access to clean water or adequate healthcare.
Vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing
conditions, face higher morbidity and mortality rates due to prolonged exposure to pollutants.
This interplay between climate change and pollution further exacerbates the public health
crisis, particularly in regions that are ill-equipped to handle the dual burden of environmental
and health challenges

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Contribution of Climate Change

Climate change exacerbates air pollution and industrial waste issues in several critical ways.
Rising global temperatures lead to more frequent and intense heatwaves, which, in turn,
accelerate the formation of ground-level ozone, a harmful pollutant that worsens smog in
urban areas. Drier and hotter conditions also increase the occurrence of wildfires, releasing
massive amounts of particulate matter into the atmosphere, further degrading air quality.

Moreover, climate change alters weather patterns, such as wind and precipitation, which can
trap pollutants in certain areas for longer periods, leading to prolonged exposure to harmful
substances.

Figure 4. Climate Change and Health in Pictures8

Climate change also drives up energy demand, particularly for cooling in response to rising
temperatures. In regions where fossil fuels dominate energy production, this leads to
increased emissions of air pollutants and greenhouse gases, creating a feedback loop where
air pollution worsens climate change, and vice versa. Climate change also affects the
handling of industrial waste, as extreme weather events like floods can damage waste storage
facilities, causing hazardous materials to spill into the environment, and contaminating air,
water, and soil.

In this cyclical relationship, air pollution and climate change feed into each other,
intensifying the health risks and environmental damage. As pollutants like black carbon and
methane contribute to warming, the changing climate, in turn, amplifies pollution levels,
demonstrating the urgency of addressing these intertwined issues at a global scale. While
many developed countries have implemented policies to reduce emissions and improve waste

8
World Health Organization, “Climate Change and Health in Pictures,” World Health Organization, November 29, 2019,
[Link]

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management, developing nations often lack the financial and technical capacity to address
these issues. Furthermore, global dependence on fossil fuels and the slow adoption of
renewable energy sources continue to exacerbate the problem. There is also a lack of
effective global coordination and enforcement mechanisms to ensure compliance with
environmental standards, creating an uneven response to the crisis.

Case Study #1

In Bangladesh, air pollution presents a significant public health challenge, particularly in the
densely populated capital of Dhaka. The city is frequently listed as one of the most polluted
urban centers globally, driven by rapid industrialization and urbanization. According to the
2023 World Air Quality Report, Dhaka's PM2.5 levels reached 76.9 µg/m³, drastically
exceeding the WHO's recommended guideline of 5 µg/m³. This high concentration of
pollutants stems from several sources, including approximately 7,000 brick kilns that
contribute 60% of particulate emissions, vehicular pollution from outdated and poorly
maintained cars, and unregulated emissions from industrial facilities, particularly textile and
leather factories.

The health effects are profound, with WHO estimating over 100,000 premature deaths
annually in Bangladesh due to air pollution-related conditions such as asthma, chronic
obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and cardiovascular diseases. The rate of childhood
asthma in Dhaka is 8% higher than in rural regions of the country, and COPD accounts for
12% of all deaths. The financial burden of air pollution is equally significant, with the World
Bank reporting that pollution costs the country around 3.4% of its GDP annually due to
healthcare expenses and lost productivity.

The Bangladeshi government, supported by international organizations like the World Bank,
has implemented initiatives such as the Clean Air and Sustainable Environment (CASE)
project, aimed at improving air quality by regulating industrial emissions and promoting
cleaner technologies for brick kilns. These efforts reflect Bangladesh's commitment to
tackling its pollution crisis, yet substantial progress remains elusive without stronger
regulatory enforcement. However, enforcement remains a critical issue due to the limited
resources and economic capabilities of Bangladesh.

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Case Study #2

Germany on the other hand, as a developed country, has the economic capacity to address the
impacts of air pollution and industrial waste. They made significant strides in tackling air
pollution and industrial waste through progressive policies and innovative approaches. In the
1990s, Germany had some of the highest sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions in Europe due to its
reliance on coal for power generation, leading to severe environmental and public health
issues, including respiratory diseases and acid rain. Recognizing these challenges, the
German government launched the Energiewende (energy transition) policy, aimed at
reducing the country's dependence on fossil fuels by transitioning to renewable energy
sources like wind and solar. As a result, renewable energy now accounts for over 40% of
Germany's energy mix.

Germany's efforts have not only reduced harmful emissions but also improved public health
outcomes. Despite this progress, urban areas like Berlin and Munich still face challenges due
to vehicular emissions, which contribute to more than 40,000 premature deaths annually
from air pollution-related conditions like cardiovascular disease, asthma, and lung cancer. To
further combat this, Germany has implemented strict environmental regulations, such as
banning high-polluting vehicles from entering certain urban zones and heavily investing in
clean public transport systems. These policies reflect Germany’s commitment to improving
air quality and mitigating the adverse health effects of industrial activities and pollution.
Ongoing innovation in clean energy technologies and stricter enforcement of environmental
regulations will be crucial to further reducing the nation's pollution levels and safeguarding
public health.

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 5. Past Actions
The WHO has been fighting the harmful effects of air pollution and industrial waste on
public health for years. Recognizing that pollution from industrial processes and urban
environments contributes to a wide range of health issues, including respiratory diseases,
cardiovascular conditions, and even premature death, the WHO has partnered with
governments, NGOs, and local communities to take action. Below are some of the key steps
the WHO has taken to address these issues and protect public health.

1. WHO Air Quality Guidelines (1987, Updated in 2021)

The WHO Air Quality Guidelines (AQGs), first introduced in 1987, aim to protect public
health by providing evidence-based recommendations for acceptable levels of air pollutants.
The goal is to reduce population exposure to harmful pollutants and improve overall public
health, particularly in urban and industrial areas. These guidelines focus on dangerous
pollutants such as particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur
dioxide (SO2), and ozone (O3), all of which are linked to severe health issues like
cardiovascular disease, respiratory infections, and lung cancer. The 2021 update marks the
first revision since 2005, and significantly lowered the recommended limits for these
pollutants, recognizing that even low levels of air pollution can lead to serious health
consequences.

Figure 5. AQGS Goals to Reduce Air Pollution9

9
World Health Organization, “The WHO Air Quality Guidelines (AQGs) – Set Goals to Reduce Air Pollution,” World Health Organization,
accessed July 8, 2026, [Link]

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To help governments better understand the local effects of pollution, the WHO has supported
numerous Health Impact Assessments (HIAs). These assessments allow governments to
evaluate the public health risks posed by air pollution and industrial waste in their regions,
helping them design policies that specifically address their unique challenges. HIAs are
especially crucial for developing countries experiencing rapid industrialization and
urbanization, where air quality often exceeds recommended levels.

The AQGs are not legally binding, but they serve as a reference for governments and
policymakers to implement standards and regulations to reduce air [Link] guidelines
have influenced international and national policies, particularly in regions like the European
Union and the United States. For instance, the EU Ambient Air Quality Directive set legally
binding limits for pollutants, while the Clean Air Act in the U.S. incorporated WHO
standards, leading to significant improvements in air quality. However, despite these efforts,
99% of the global population still breathes air that exceeds WHO guidelines, highlighting the
need for stronger enforcement and policy changes, particularly in developing countries
experiencing rapid industrialization and urbanization.

2. WHO Global Conference on Air Pollution and Health (2018)

In 2018, WHO hosted its first-ever Global Conference on Air Pollution and Health, which
brought together health experts, policymakers, and environmentalists to address the growing
health crisis caused by air pollution. The event called attention to the economic toll of air
pollution, with the World Bank estimating that air pollution costs the global economy $8.1
trillion in 2019, equivalent to 6.1 percent of global GDP.

The conference served as a wake-up call for many governments, urging them to adopt stricter
national air quality standards. Countries such as India responded by launching the National
Clean Air Programme (NCAP) in 2019, targeting a 20-30% reduction in particulate matter
(PM10 and PM2.5) by 2024, with a focus on 132 highly polluted cities. Additionally,
discussions emphasized that air pollution disproportionately affects vulnerable populations,
including children, with WHO noting in 2016 that 600,000 children under the age of 15 die
annually from respiratory infections exacerbated by polluted air. This data pushed
governments to focus on policies protecting these groups from the deadly effects of pollution.

3. The BreatheLife Campaign

The BreatheLife Campaign, launched in 2016 by WHO in collaboration with UNEP and the
Climate and Clean Air Coalition, seeks to reduce global air pollution and its harmful health
effects by raising awareness and promoting cleaner air policies. The campaign focuses on
cities, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where 98% of cities with populations
over 100,000 exceed WHO air quality guidelines. The campaign encourages cities and
governments to adopt sustainable urban practices, such as improving public transportation,
expanding green spaces, and reducing vehicle emissions.

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Since its launch, cities such as Mexico City, Accra, and Oslo have made considerable
progress in improving air quality through these measures. For example, Oslo’s promotion of
electric vehicles has significantly reduced urban pollution, while Mexico City has
implemented stricter emission standards for vehicles. Globally, 9 out of 10 people breathe
polluted air, and air pollution is linked to about one-third of deaths from stroke, heart disease,
and lung cancer. The BreatheLife campaign’s objective is to help governments take steps to
meet WHO air quality standards by 2030, with the potential to avoid 4 million premature
deaths annually.

4. Health and Pollution Action Plans (HPAPs) (2015)

The Health and Pollution Action Plans are country-driven initiatives facilitated by the
Global Alliance on Health and Pollution (GAHP) to help low- and middle-income countries
address the health impacts of pollution. The objective of HPAPs is to guide governments
through a structured process that assesses the local sources of pollution and their associated
health risks, and then outlines actionable steps to reduce these risks. The key objectives of
HPAPs are to assess the most harmful types of pollution, prioritize health risks, and engage
multiple sectors in developing effective policies and interventions, such as waste
management and air quality improvements. HPAPs rely on stakeholder collaboration,
data-driven approaches, and provide countries with a roadmap for pollution control, policy
development, and securing resources for implementation. According to the GAHP and the
Lancet Commission on Pollution and Health (global initiative organized by the medical
journal The Lancet), pollution is responsible for more deaths annually than smoking, malaria,
and HIV/AIDS combined, accounting for 9 million deaths per year, with most of these
occurring in low- and middle-income countries.

Countries such as Peru, Vietnam, and Ghana have implemented HPAPs to address pressing
health issues. For example, in Peru, the plan targeted the reduction of mercury contamination
from illegal mining activities, which had caused widespread public health concerns.
Vietnam’s HPAP focused on reducing traffic-related air pollution, while Ghana improved its
waste management practices to mitigate health risks associated with hazardous waste. HPAPs
have proven successful in not only protecting public health but also contributing to
sustainable development by aligning pollution reduction with broader environmental and
economic goals.

5. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and WHO’s Role

The WHO’s work is also tightly linked to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
(SDGs). Specifically, the WHO’s efforts on air pollution and industrial waste align with Goal
3 (Good Health and Well-Being) and Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). By
advocating for healthier environments through cleaner air and responsible waste
management, the WHO is helping countries not only improve public health but also achieve
long-term sustainability. For example, WHO has worked closely with local governments to
ensure that new urban development projects take into account air quality and waste
management from the start. This approach ensures that cities can grow in a way that is both

16
environmentally sustainable and beneficial for public health. To support the achievement of
these goals, WHO also monitors key SDG indicators, such as SDG target 3.9.1 (reducing
deaths from air pollution), SDG 7.1.2 (access to clean energy), and SDG 11.6.2 (reducing the
environmental impact of cities by improving air quality and waste management). This
approach ensures long-term sustainability and the creation of healthier living environments,
particularly in rapidly urbanizing regions.

In this sense, the WHO has been at the forefront of addressing the public health challenges
posed by air pollution and industrial waste. Through collaborations with governments,
communities, and international organizations, the WHO has developed guidelines and
launched numerous initiatives aimed at mitigating pollution and fostering healthier
environments. While significant progress has been made, sustained global efforts are crucial
to safeguard public health and support sustainable development in the context of rapid
industrialization and urbanization. However, this list of past actions is not exhaustive, and
delegates are strongly encouraged to explore further initiatives and strategies implemented
worldwide and nationwide to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the scope of
ongoing efforts and innovative solutions in this critical area.

6. Bloc Positions
Developed Countries
Key Members: United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Germany, France, Japan, South
Korea, Australia.

Developed countries are at the forefront of implementing strict regulatory frameworks due to
their technological advancements and investments in research and development. Alongside
these regulations, developed nations are working together to promote cleaner production
processes and renewable energy to address the problems of air pollution and industrial waste.
Their main aim is to transition towards more sustainable industrial practices.

Least Developed Countries (LDCs)

Key Members: Afghanistan, Haiti, Yemen, Mozambique, Myanmar, Nepal

Due to their limited resources and options, LDCs often face challenges in addressing issues
such as air pollution and industrial waste. This has led them to higher levels of environmental
contamination and health risks. Nevertheless, multiple LDCs seek support from international
organizations and developed nations, which helps them aid funding and capacity-building
initiatives. These collaborations help LDCs improve their status quo sequentially.

Asia-Pacific Bloc
Key Members:China, Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam

The Asia-Pacific Bloc faces significant challenges in managing air pollution and industrial
waste due to rapid industrialization, urbanization, and population growth. Many countries in

17
the region, such as China, India, and Indonesia, have high levels of emissions from factories,
transportation, and power generation, leading to serious air quality issues. Through regional
cooperation and international support, these nations are gradually improving their
environmental management systems.

Middle East and Northern Africa (MENA)

Key Members: Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Egypt, Iran, Qatar, Israel,
Morocco, Algeria

The MENA bloc has experienced above-average growth in air pollution and industrial waste
due to rapid urbanization, industrial expansion, and reliance on fossil fuels. While countries
like the UAE and Qatar have invested in cleaner technologies and stricter regulations, others
with fewer resources face challenges in managing these issues. These countries are working
together to address these environmental challenges through the collective efforts of the
nations in this region.

BRICS
Key Members: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa

The BRICS bloc has been actively working to improve the present impact of the issue in their
nations. These countries are investing heavily in clean energy sources such as solar, wind,
and hydropower to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, which are significant contributors to
pollution. They have also imposed stricter regulations to control industrial emissions and
improve waste management practices. By fostering a commitment to sustainability and
innovation, the BRICS nations are not only addressing environmental concerns but also
setting a precedent for other countries to follow, ultimately striving for a healthier planet and
a more sustainable future.

18
 7. Possible Solutions
The World Health Organization should address air pollution through a health-centered global
strategy that combines stricter air quality standards, stronger monitoring systems, cleaner
household and industrial energy and international financial support for low-capacity states.
Delegates can try to link air pollution reduction to public health and climate action. Through
this, Member States can implement policies that reduce disease, premature deaths, and
environmental harm at the same time.

On another note, Member States are encouraged to assess the monitoring infrastructure of
countries, as the effectiveness of the WHO Air Quality Guidelines depends largely on the
accurate measurement of air pollution levels. It is important to recognize that many low and
middle-income countries continue to face structural challenges, including limited monitoring
stations, fragmented reporting systems, and inadequate coverage in rural areas.

Member States should also look into how WHO can implement resolutions and its capacity as
a council. Since WHO is a non-legally binding council, it can only implement instruments
mainly as recommendations or political declarations. They cannot compel compliance,
impose sanctions, or serve as a basis for litigation before international courts. Given that
WHO has no power to fine Member States that fail to meet AQG, its compliance depends on
a countries’ political will, domestic law, funding, and administrative capacity.

Delegates must also research how the society acts when it comes to their action in reducing
air pollution, specifically their obligations on major sources of pollution such as private
factories, power plants, vehicle manufacturers, mining firms, construction sectors, or
agricultural emitters. Having said that, how do Member States reach these actors to cooperate
with reducing air pollution?

It is also essential for Member States to invest in stronger air-quality monitoring systems in
order to promote the interest of the international community in addressing air pollution.
Delegates must also remain mindful of the Council’s mandate when proposing measures to
strengthen the implementation of the WHO Air Quality Guidelines and address existing gaps
in monitoring, compliance, and enforcement.

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8. QARMAs
a. How does climate change exacerbate the health impacts of air pollution, particularly
in urban areas where industrial activity is concentrated? How does industrial waste
affect local ecosystems and contribute to long-term public health risks in communities
located near industrial zones?

b. How can public health systems be strengthened to better handle the long-term health
effects caused by air pollution and exposure to hazardous industrial waste?

c. What measures can be adopted to ensure that industries comply with national and
international environmental regulations on air pollution and industrial waste
management? How can governments and industries collaborate to enforce stricter
regulations on industrial emissions and waste disposal while maintaining economic
growth?

d. What strategies can be employed to raise public awareness about the health risks of
air pollution and industrial waste, and how can communities be empowered to
advocate for cleaner environments?

e. How can data collection and scientific research be improved to better assess the
public health impacts of air pollution and industrial waste, and how should this data
inform policy decisions?

f. How can regional cooperation be enhanced to address transboundary pollution issues?

For example, how should neighboring countries collaborate on industrial emissions
that affect public health across borders?

20
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