Efficient stoves not only reduce CO₂ emissions and conserve valuable resources, but their use also leads to better indoor air quality and potentially reduces health risks, especially for women. This is shown in a study conducted by the Leibniz Institute for Tropospheric Research (TROPOS), Buana e.V., and Safer Rwanda, which has now been published in the journal Scientific Reports from the Nature Portfolio. The study compares air quality and health effects of efficient stoves and traditional cooking methods in rural communities in Rwanda. It was supported by atmosfair, a German non-profit organization supporting offsetting of CO₂ with projects such as the production and distribution of improved cookstoves. The study was funded by Chiesi Onlus Foundation.

Long-term exposure to particulate matter (PM) can disrupt immune balance and worsen lung health. In a recent study, researchers from Korea exposed mice to PM₁₀ and PM_2.5 to examine their effects on lung inflammation and immune responses. The results showed elevated T_H2 cytokines and activation of the NRF2 pathway, contributing to allergic-type lung damage. These findings suggest that air pollution may promote asthma and chronic lung diseases by altering immune regulation and increasing oxidative stress.

Sepsis continues to cause nearly one in five deaths globally, with little improvement despite existing guidelines. This editorial explores why current efforts fall short and outlines future directions for research and care. Key areas include AI-based early detection, faster diagnostics, personalized treatments, and improved trial designs. By closing the gap between evidence and bedside practice, these strategies offer a path toward reducing sepsis deaths and advancing global critical care.