Sri Lanka Red Cross Society Calls for Collective Action to Confront Air Quality Deterioration and Heat Stress in Sri Lanka

Colombo, Sri Lanka – The Sri Lanka Red Cross Society (SLRCS), in partnership with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), hosted a brainstorming session to address worsening air quality and heat stress affecting vulnerable communities across the country.

The session brought together experts from the Department of Meteorology, Central Environmental Authority (CEA), Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) South Asia, National Building Research Organization (NBRO), who presented insights on current trends in air pollution and extreme heat, monitoring mechanisms, and response strategies.

Discussions highlighted critical gaps in public awareness and preparedness, noting that while all communities are affected, the most vulnerable including those at highest risk of heat-related illnesses and respiratory problems require urgent attention.

SLRCS emphasized that addressing air quality deterioration and heat stress requires coordinated action among humanitarian actors, government agencies, and international partners. The session marks a crucial step toward mobilizing national and international resources to protect vulnerable communities amid the growing impacts of climate change.