The 2023 World Air Quality Report, released earlier this year, reveals that Mauritius is one of only seven countries to meet the World Health Organization (WHO) annual PM2.5 guideline (an annual average of 5 µg/m3 or less). The Indian Ocean island is in good company with Australia, Estonia, Finland, Grenada, Iceland, and New Zealand.
Findings in the sixth annual World Air Quality Report reveal alarming details of the world’s most polluted countries, territories, and regions gleaned from data gathered by more than 30,000 air quality monitoring stations across 7,812 locations in 134 countries. The analysis was completed by air quality scientists from IQAir, a Swiss technology company that empowers individuals, organisations, and governments to improve air quality through information, collaboration, and intervention.
According to the report, Bangladesh, Pakistan, India, Tajikistan, and Burkina Faso were the top five most polluted countries in 2023. Moreover, 124 (92.5%) of 134 countries and regions exceeded the WHO annual PM2.5 guideline value of 5 µg/m3.
Understanding PM2.5: the invisible threat
PM2.5, fine particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometres or smaller, is a critical air pollutant monitored by environmental agencies due to its significant impact on human health and the environment. These tiny particles originate from sources such as combustion engines, industrial processes, and wildfires and are linked to severe health issues, including cardiovascular and neurological diseases and premature death.
The link between air pollution and climate change
Climate change exacerbates air quality by altering weather patterns, leading to more frequent and severe pollution events. For example, rising temperatures increase the likelihood of wildfires, which release harmful gases and particles into the atmosphere. Addressing air pollution and climate change goals simultaneously is feasible, offering opportunities for comprehensive environmental improvements.
Global air quality and the need for action
Air pollution is responsible for an estimated seven million premature deaths annually, making it the greatest environmental threat to human health. Yet, only 9% of cities worldwide meet the WHO’s PM2.5 guidelines. The situation is particularly dire in regions like Central and South Asia, where cities consistently rank among the most polluted globally. “A clean, healthy, and sustainable environment is a universal human right. In many parts of the world the lack of air quality data delays decisive action and perpetuates unnecessary human suffering. Air quality data saves lives. Where air quality is reported, action is taken, and air quality improves,” states Frank Hammes, Global CEO, IQAir.
Government and individual actions
Governments can tackle air pollution by adopting stricter standards, investing in renewable energy, and monitoring air quality. Individuals can also contribute by reducing their pollution footprint and advocating for cleaner air.
“IQAir’s annual report illustrates the international nature and inequitable consequences of the enduring air pollution crisis. Local, national, and international effort is urgently needed to monitor air quality in underresourced places, manage the causes of transboundary haze, and cut our reliance on combustion as an energy source,” notes Aidan Farrow, Sr. Air Quality Scientist, Greenpeace International. “In 2023 air pollution remained a global health catastrophe. IQAir’s global data set provides an important reminder of the resulting injustices and the need to implement the many solutions that exist to this problem.”
What you can do
Lower your air pollution footprint
- Bike, walk, or use public transportation when feasible.
- Economize and reduce energy consumption.
- Manage waste by reducing purchases and embracing upcycling, recycling, and reusing.
Limit your exposure to air pollution
- Download the free IQAir AirVisual app for real-time air quality updates.
- Reduce outdoor activities during periods of unhealthy air quality.
- Wear a high-quality face mask when outdoors in poor air quality conditions.
- Monitor real-time and forecasted outdoor air quality data.
- Opt for eco-friendly alternatives to wood-burning stoves for heating and cooking.
- Improve indoor air quality with air filtration and purification systems.
- Set A/C systems to recirculation mode during unhealthy outdoor air quality and seal doors and windows.
- When outdoor air quality is good, allow fresh air intake in A/C systems and open doors and windows for ventilation.
English