Vehicle emissions continue to pose a significant threat to public health in Ghana, with experts calling for stronger enforcement of emission standards, cleaner transport systems, and increased public awareness to address worsening air pollution.

The warning comes amid growing concern over the health effects of pollutants released daily by cars, buses and trucks on Ghana's roads, exposing drivers, traders, commuters and pedestrians to hazardous air.

Although bustling streets are a familiar feature of urban life, environmental and health experts say exhaust fumes and other vehicle emissions are contributing to an invisible but dangerous form of pollution with serious consequences.

Air pollution from vehicles is made up of harmful substances including fine particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), nitrogen oxides (NOx), carbon monoxide (CO), sulphur dioxide (SO₂), and ground-level ozone. These pollutants are generated through exhaust fumes, diesel smoke, poor fuel combustion, ageing engines and traffic congestion.

At the 37 Military Bus Terminal in Accra, some commercial drivers and commuters acknowledged the health risks associated with vehicle emissions. However, many said economic challenges, ageing vehicles and the lack of affordable alternatives leave them with little choice but to continue operating under such conditions.

Professor Reginald Quansah of the University of Ghana School of Public Health said many Ghanaians remain unaware of the extent to which vehicle emissions contribute to air pollution and the resulting health implications.

He noted that prolonged exposure to polluted air has been linked to respiratory diseases, cardiovascular conditions and premature deaths.

According to the 2021 State of Global Air report, exposure to air pollution caused an estimated 8.1 million deaths worldwide, including more than 700,000 deaths among children under the age of five.

Data from the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF and the State of Global Air report also indicate that air pollution is Ghana's second-leading risk factor for death after high blood pressure.

Professor Quansah urged the public to adopt practical measures to reduce exposure to polluted air while advocating stronger national efforts to improve air quality.

On Ghana's regulatory framework, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) said vehicle roadworthiness inspections remain in force as part of efforts to monitor vehicle conditions.

The Authority disclosed that the Ministry of Transport is developing new policies and emission standards aimed at strengthening vehicle emission controls and improving air quality across the country.

Environmental advocate Paul Nwachukwu said while Ghana has introduced policies to address air pollution, greater emphasis should be placed on public education to encourage behavioural change and compliance with emission regulations.

He stressed that addressing vehicle emissions will require sustained investment in cleaner transport technologies, stricter enforcement of existing regulations and stronger collaboration between government agencies, transport operators and the public.

Experts believe that as Ghana's urban population continues to grow, protecting public health and safeguarding the environment will depend on coordinated efforts to reduce emissions and promote sustainable transportation.