India: New Delhi sits on the podium of the most polluted cities in the world.

At COP29, a global event that brings together the brightest (and dullest) minds on the planet to discuss the environment, the world's most polluting cities were highlighted. And surprise, no major American, European or Asian city is solely responsible for this dismal list. Here is a list that is enough to make your teeth grind, while world leaders continue to promise changes without any real concrete follow-through.

Black stars on the air board

The top spot in the rankings is held by New Delhi, India, the capital that seems to have one eye on air pollution like a social media star in his latest photo: always in the news, but for the wrong reasons. Next up are cities like Dhaka, as an unfortunate punctuation mark, and the infamous Beijing. How did these cities get so polluted? Just look at their high-octane lifestyles, excessive industrialization, and aging transportation systems. An explosive cocktail that leaves the air more unbreathable than a crowded classroom after a hot day.

Africa is growing in power… of pollution

Yes, ladies and gentlemen, let's not be afraid to talk about it: Africa is not far behind in this race against pollution. Abidjan, Ivory Coast, is poking its nose into this ranking, delighted to be talked about for something other than its frenetic pace and its delicious gastronomy. Inefficient waste management, urban planning in disarray and the surge in commercial activity contribute to obscuring the horizon of this beautiful metropolis. Brace yourselves, because cities like Lagos and Nairobi could well join this unenviable club if current trends continue.

Empty promises

As this climate event approaches, the discussions among delegates and activists are as heated as they are futile. Between committed words and inaction, the commitment to reduce carbon emissions seems like an empty promise. Who can seriously believe that a true green revolution could emerge from the hushed corridors of COP29 while New Delhi sinks into an inextricable haze of pollution? Solutions are present, but do they necessarily have to involve decades of technocracy and imperfect reporting? That remains to be seen!

As the world struggles to make its voice heard for change, perhaps it is time to ask whether these major cities themselves should take the lead. The only viable solution is to move from words to action. Because in the end, breathing clean air should not be a privilege, but a fundamental right for all.