The first act of care is to ensure clean air.
Our villain is called Fine Particulate Matter (PM2.5), the invisible enemy that threatens your family's health.
Air pollution is a global problem with a frighteningly personal impact. The simplest and most vital act – breathing – has become the greatest health threat of our time.
The air that enters our children's lungs is the most urgent measure of the crisis: 90% of diseases associated with climate change are suffered by children under 5 years of age .
To ensure a prosperous future for the next generation, we need to stop burning oil, coal, and gas, and transition to wind and solar energy—in a fair and inclusive way. We need to protect our forests and halt deforestation.
The Invisible Damage
Because they are microscopic, toxic particles (PM2.5) penetrate deep into the respiratory system and cause health problems.
Global research confirms that chronic exposure to pollution can damage every organ and cell in the body, from the nervous system to the cardiovascular system. And our young children are the most vulnerable humans because they are still developing .
How can motherhood transform the climate crisis?
We understand that the urgency to act for the planet stems from the deepest instinct to protect. Women are also among the most vulnerable to the impacts of the crisis, especially mothers who care for themselves and their children in more exposed environments. However, it is from this vulnerability that the most transformative force is born.
Globally, there are over 2 billion mothers. And studies on Gender Justice and Climate Action show a striking contrast: while women are the most affected, when they receive the necessary support and space, they become the most effective agents in implementing solutions.
Delegation of Mothers at COP30, in Belém
Mothers for Climate will be joining Our Kids' Climate and other organizations at COP30 in Belém.
COP30 should be the crucial moment when countries translate into concrete actions the intention to abandon oil, gas, and coal, expressed since COP28. This can be done by finally establishing a process that allows governments to coordinate the phasing out of fossil fuels globally.
THE PATH TO URBAN REGENERATION
Caring for clean air requires large-scale action, starting at home and expanding into public policies. The solution is Urban Regeneration.
Organizations like C40 Cities show that the healthiest cities invest in creating Clean Air Zones (CAZs) , which prioritize people over the most polluting vehicles. The movement for cleaner air is a movement for fairer, more inclusive, and safer cities for children.
Where do you start taking action?
Mothers for Climate and Our Kids' Climate invite you to demand and support action in your community:
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How about supporting Zero Emission Transportation in your city?
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Or should we switch from the car to Active Mobility (walking/cycling)?
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Do you promote preventative healthcare in your region, reducing toxic exposure?
We've also prepared a way for you to get started from home...
To support mothers, fathers, caregivers, and educators on this journey of awareness and action, Clarissa Canova, founder of Mothers for Climate, developed an educational resource: the children's book "The Air We Breathe: Francesco and the Guardians of Nature" (only available in Portuguese).
The book doesn't focus on fear, but on resilience and purpose. Through the story of Francesco, who learns to transform worry into simple acts of regeneration, it invites families to practice climate leadership in their daily lives. The book features illustrations by Karin Feller, editorial coordination by Carol Duarte, and publication by Editora Casa Flutuante.
The official book launch will be at COP30 on November 12, 2025! Follow Mães pelo Clima's social media to stay updated on book launch events in Belém and other cities across Brazil!
An awareness tool for children and families.
Important information: This book is not yet for sale. The first edition had a print run of 500 copies, which are being distributed free of charge at COP30, and in schools and events throughout Brazil thanks to the support of sponsors.
