Air pollution stands as the foremost environmental threat to human health, leading to approximately one in every nine deaths worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that air pollution causes around seven million premature deaths each year.
Exposure to PM2.5 air pollution is linked to numerous health issues, including asthma, cancer, stroke, and lung disease. It also affects cognitive development in children, exacerbates mental health problems, and worsens existing illnesses such as diabetes.
The Most Polluted Cities in the World
1. Delhi, India
Delhi, the capital of India, is notorious for its severe air pollution levels. In 2023-24, the city’s annual average PM2.5 concentrations increased to 54.4 µg/m³ from 53.3 µg/m³ in 2022. A significant contributor to this rise is the burning of crops, vehicle emissions, coal burning, and waste burning.
The PM2.5 levels reached a peak of 255 µg/m³ in November. According to a study published in The Lancet, about 11.5% of deaths in Delhi each year can be attributed to air pollution, marking the highest rate in any Indian city.
2. Dhaka, Bangladesh
Dhaka consistently ranks among the cities with the worst air quality. Industrial emissions, traffic congestion, and brick kilns are major contributors to the city’s high PM2.5 levels, causing severe health issues for its residents.
3. Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Ulaanbaatar’s harsh winters drive residents to burn coal and other materials for heating, leading to significant air pollution. The city often experiences PM2.5 levels far above the WHO’s safe limits, posing serious health risks.
4. Lahore, Pakistan
Lahore’s air quality deteriorates notably during winter months due to the burning of crop residues and increased use of fossil fuels. The city’s air pollution levels contribute to a high incidence of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
5. Kabul, Afghanistan
Kabul faces severe air pollution from various sources, including vehicle emissions, industrial activities, and the burning of low-quality fuels for heating. The city frequently experiences PM2.5 levels that endanger public health.
6. Jakarta, Indonesia
Jakarta’s rapid industrialization and traffic congestion have led to poor air quality. The city’s residents are exposed to high levels of PM2.5, resulting in numerous health problems.
7. Beijing, China
Beijing has made strides in improving air quality, but it still faces significant pollution challenges. The city’s PM2.5 levels remain a concern, particularly during the winter heating season when coal burning increases.
8. Cairo, Egypt
Cairo struggles with air pollution from vehicle emissions, industrial activities, and open burning of waste. The city’s air quality poses a severe health risk to its inhabitants.
9. Mumbai, India
Mumbai’s air quality is adversely affected by industrial emissions, vehicular pollution, and construction activities. The city often records high PM2.5 levels, contributing to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
10. Kathmandu, Nepal
Kathmandu faces severe air pollution from vehicle emissions, industrial activities, and the burning of biomass. The city’s air quality significantly deteriorates during the winter months.
The Cleanest Cities in the World
1. Wellington, New Zealand
Wellington boasts some of the cleanest air globally, thanks to its coastal location and strong environmental regulations. The city’s PM2.5 levels consistently remain well below WHO guidelines.
2. Helsinki, Finland
Helsinki’s commitment to clean energy and sustainable practices ensures excellent air quality. The city’s robust public transportation system and green spaces contribute to low PM2.5 levels.
3. Stockholm, Sweden
Stockholm’s focus on green energy and efficient waste management has resulted in high air quality. The city’s air pollution levels are among the lowest in Europe.
4. Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik benefits from its geothermal energy resources and stringent environmental policies. The city’s air quality is exceptional, with very low PM2.5 levels.
5. Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver’s clean air is a result of its comprehensive environmental policies and abundant green spaces. The city’s air quality is consistently among the best in North America.
6. Canberra, Australia
Canberra’s low population density and extensive green areas contribute to its excellent air quality. The city’s PM2.5 levels are significantly below WHO guidelines.
7. Zurich, Switzerland
Zurich’s strict environmental regulations and commitment to sustainable practices ensure clean air. The city’s air quality is among the best in Europe.
8. Oslo, Norway
Oslo’s investment in clean energy and efficient public transportation has resulted in high air quality. The city’s air pollution levels are well within safe limits.
9. Adelaide, Australia
Adelaide’s focus on renewable energy and green initiatives ensures excellent air quality. The city’s PM2.5 levels are consistently low.
10. Honolulu, USA
Honolulu’s coastal location and strict environmental policies contribute to its clean air. The city’s air quality is among the best in the United States.
Conclusion
Air pollution remains a critical global health issue, with significant disparities between the world’s most polluted and cleanest cities. Efforts to improve air quality, such as promoting cleaner transport, efficient energy production, and better waste management, are essential.
While some regions continue to struggle with severe pollution, others serve as examples of successful environmental policies and sustainable practices.
