A new report has revealed that nearly all countries have air pollution levels exceeding the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommended limits for PM2.5, a harmful fine particulate matter.
According to Swiss air quality technology firm IQAir, only seven countries, including Australia, New Zealand, Estonia, Iceland, and several small island states, met WHO’s guideline of no more than 5µg of PM2.5 per cubic meter in 2024. In contrast, Chad, Bangladesh, Pakistan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and India recorded PM2.5 levels 10 to 18 times higher than the limit.
Doctors warn that no level of PM2.5 is safe, as the tiny particles penetrate the bloodstream, affecting vital organs and increasing health risks. Air pollution is the second-leading cause of death globally after high blood pressure.
Despite the concerning findings, the report noted progress in some regions. The share of cities meeting WHO standards rose from 9% in 2023 to 17% in 2024, while pollution in India fell by 7%. China also continued its long-term air quality improvements.
Experts emphasize that policy changes, such as expanding renewable energy, promoting public transport, and restricting agricultural waste burning, are crucial to reducing pollution and improving global air quality.
