Uncontrolled waste burning affects Lesotho's air quality.
One way to measure air quality is through fine particulate matter called PM2.5. These tiny particles enter the air from many human and natural sources, such as dust and vehicle exhaust, and can make the air appear hazy when at high levels. Particles can travel vast distances, meaning air pollution caused in one place may transcend borders to impact people in another region altogether. The decline in clean air is a threat to human health, the environment, greater economic prosperity, and society.
When waste is managed improperly, it can have lasting negative effects on the health of our communities and environment. Due to Lesotho's inefficient waste management system, large amounts of trash in landfills are left to burn, which releases air pollutants such as particulate matter and toxic gases. These pollutants disproportionately cause higher rates of cancer or respiratory illnesses among those located nearby landfills, but can also affect those far away. Let your government know that it must improve Lesotho's waste management system and institute measures to reduce waste!