Air Pollution Worsens as Most of the World Breathes Dirty Air
A global air pollution report has revealed alarming levels of dirty air worldwide, with only seven countries meeting WHO’s air quality standards in 2024.
Air pollution has become a major health crisis, affecting billions of people globally. A new report from IQAir, a Switzerland-based air quality monitoring database, highlights the severity of the problem. The study, which analyzed data from 40,000 monitoring stations in 138 countries, found that most of the world’s population is breathing unsafe air.
Among the countries with the worst air pollution, Chad, Bangladesh, Pakistan, India, and the Democratic Republic of Congo ranked at the top. These nations had smog levels far beyond the safe limits set by the World Health Organization (WHO), raising serious health concerns.
Air Pollution Data Shows a Worsening Crisis
The IQAir report found that air pollution is a growing issue in many parts of the world. Only seven countries—Australia, New Zealand, the Bahamas, Barbados, Grenada, Estonia, and Iceland—met WHO’s air quality guidelines in 2024. This means that the majority of the world’s population is exposed to harmful pollutants daily.
The study identified that poor air quality is mainly caused by industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust, crop burning, and natural factors like dust storms. In countries such as Chad, high pollution levels were linked to Sahara dust and widespread agricultural fires.
Experts warn that worsening air pollution can lead to severe health problems, including respiratory diseases, heart conditions, and reduced life expectancy. Without urgent action, the crisis is expected to intensify, affecting millions more in the coming years.
Air Pollution Monitoring Faces Major Data Gaps
One of the biggest challenges in addressing air pollution is the lack of reliable data. Many regions, especially in Africa, have very few air monitoring stations. The report noted that across Africa, there is only one monitoring station for every 3.7 million people, making it difficult to track pollution levels accurately.
The situation may worsen following a recent decision by the US Department of State to stop publicly sharing air quality data collected from its embassies and consulates. This program provided crucial data for many developing countries, where independent air monitoring is limited.
According to experts, at least 34 countries will lose access to vital pollution data due to the US government’s decision. This could make it harder for policymakers and researchers to assess the true scale of the air pollution crisis and implement effective solutions.
Air Pollution Threatens Public Health and the Environment
The impact of air pollution extends beyond health risks, as it also contributes to climate change. Scientists warn that rising global temperatures are worsening pollution levels. Higher temperatures increase the frequency and intensity of wildfires, which release massive amounts of harmful particles into the air.
In recent years, wildfires have devastated parts of Southeast Asia and South America, significantly contributing to air pollution. These fires release toxic substances that affect not only the local population but also regions far away due to wind patterns.
Chronic exposure to polluted air has been linked to various health problems, including lung diseases, stroke, and even cognitive decline. Vulnerable groups, such as children, the elderly, and people with preexisting conditions, face the highest risk.
Air Pollution in Developing Nations Remains a Concern
Countries with poor air quality often struggle with weak environmental policies and lack of funding for pollution control. In nations like Bangladesh and Pakistan, industrial emissions, burning of fossil fuels, and unregulated urban expansion are leading causes of high pollution levels.
Chad, which topped the list of the most polluted countries, faces unique challenges due to its location. The Sahara Desert contributes to significant dust storms, which degrade air quality. Additionally, uncontrolled burning of agricultural waste worsens pollution in the country.
Meanwhile, in India, major cities such as New Delhi continue to experience dangerous smog levels, especially during winter. Stubble burning, vehicular emissions, and industrial pollutants contribute to the severe air pollution crisis in the region.
Efforts to Combat Air Pollution Are Falling Short
Despite increasing awareness, efforts to control air pollution remain inadequate. Many governments have implemented air quality regulations, but enforcement is often weak. Additionally, economic pressures make it difficult for developing nations to shift to cleaner energy sources.
International organizations, including the WHO and the United Nations, have called for urgent action to address air pollution. Experts recommend stricter emission controls, investment in renewable energy, and better urban planning to reduce pollution levels.
Some cities have successfully improved air quality through targeted policies. For example, Beijing has reduced pollution through strict vehicle restrictions, industrial controls, and large-scale afforestation programs. However, these successes remain exceptions rather than the norm.
The Future of Air Pollution and Global Health
As air pollution continues to worsen, the future remains uncertain. If no action is taken, billions of people will continue to suffer from exposure to harmful air pollutants. Climate change is expected to further complicate the situation, making pollution control efforts even more challenging.
Governments worldwide must prioritize air quality by implementing stronger policies, investing in cleaner energy sources, and improving monitoring systems. Without coordinated global efforts, the health and well-being of future generations will be at risk.
The IQAir report serves as a wake-up call for policymakers, scientists, and the public. Addressing air pollution requires urgent and sustained action to ensure a healthier and more sustainable future.
Air pollution remains one of the most pressing environmental and health issues of our time. The latest IQAir report highlights the growing crisis, revealing that only a handful of countries meet WHO air quality standards. The decision by the US to stop sharing embassy air quality data further complicates the situation, making it harder for many nations to track pollution levels accurately.
With air pollution linked to severe health risks and climate change, urgent action is needed. Stronger policies, better monitoring, and investment in cleaner energy sources are essential to combating this crisis. Governments and international organizations must act now to prevent further harm to public health and the environment.
