It is no secret that air pollution was a growing global problem, but the shocking new message renders a much alarming image than many expected.
According to the World Air quality report from 2023 IQAIR only seven countries around the world meet the standards of the World Health Organization (WHO) for safe air quality.
Even more surprising is that out of 134 stunning places studied 124, these instructions for fine particles (PM2.5), which are known to represent serious health risks.
But what does this mean for our health and the future of our planet? How are some nations successful while others suffocate in smog? The answers could surprise you.
The new report revealed the shocking truth about global air pollution: only seven countries around the world meet the standards of the World Health Organization (WHO). The World Air Quality Report 2023, published by the Swiss air quality technology IQAIR, reveals the seriousness of the problem. Of the 134 sites studied, 124 did not meet at the level of fine particles, or PM2.5, which is harmful to human health.
What is PM2.5 and why is it important?
PM2.5 concerns small particles smaller than 2.5 microns on average, which may pose serious health risks in inhalation. These particles are able to penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream, leading to problems such as asthma, high blood pressure and respiratory disease.
The IQAIRA report is governed by the WHO’s instructions at no more than five micrograms of PM2.5 to the cubic meter of air. Overcoming this level increases the likelihood of adverse effects on health, causing findings to be particularly alarming.
Seven countries with safe air quality
In 2023, only seven countries – Austria, Iceland, Estonia, Finland, Grenada, Mauritius and New Zealand – will indicate air quality standards. Iceland culminated in the European list, followed by Estonia and Finland.
In addition to these countries, the regions such as Puerto Rico, Bermuda and French polyneysia also meet the safe levels of air quality. These areas now serve as models for what clean air should look like, which shows a positive impact of low pollution.
“Iceland has one of the cleanest air in the world,” said Frank Hammes, global CEO of IQAIR. “This shows what can be achieved when the country prefers sustainability.”
A country with the worst air quality
On the other hand, nations such as Bangladesh, Pakistan, India, Tajikistan and Burkina Faso have seen some of the highest levels of PM2.5 worldwide, which far exceeded the WHO safety instructions.
In particular, India continues to fight serious air pollution due to industrial emissions, vehicle operation and agriculture. The WHO considers such levels of pollution as a global health crisis.
Public response to the report
The finding caused significant reactions to social media. On Reddit, one user from Estonia shared: “I dated a guy from Germany who had allergies and couldn’t breathe there. Every time he visited Estonia, he could easily breathe.”
Another user questioned results, suggesting that less populated countries naturally have better air quality. Others, however, pointed out that nations with high density like Mauritius and Grenada maintain clean air, while some countries with low density, such as Burkina Faso, are fighting.
Role of population density in air quality
While the population density often correlates with air pollution, it is not the only factor. For example, Mauritius, with a population density of 657 people per square kilometer, has clean air. Burkina Faso, on the other hand, faces significant problems with air quality.
The main role is also played by local industries and types of pollution. Urban areas with a high concentration of industrial emissions and vehicle operation usually experience worse air quality than rural regions.
An urgent need for action
Frank Hammes called for an immediate measure to solve air pollution. “A clean, healthy and sustainable environment is a universal human right,” he said. “Air quality data saves lives. When air quality is monitored, accepting actions and improving air quality.”
The report emphasizes the need for comprehensive air quality data. By identifying regions that are most affected by pollution, governments and organizations can focus their efforts to decrease the level of pollution.
Global health crisis
Air pollution continues to be one of the leading risks of environmental health and contributes to millions of premature deaths every year. Report 2023 serves as a sharp reminder of the differences in air quality around the world and the urgent need for global cooperation to solve the problem.
As Hammes came to the conclusion: “In 2023, air pollution remained with a global health disaster. The solution is available; now it is time to implement them.”
What can we learn from the cleanest countries?
The seven countries that meet the WHO instructions offer a valuable lesson to the world. Through investment in renewable energy, stricter emission regulations and sustainable procedures, these countries show that the improvement of air quality is achievable with the right policies and events.
Their stories of success provide hope and plan for countries fighting pollution. Now the question is whether other nations will follow their leadership and prefer the health of their citizens.
Conclusion
The World Air quality report 2023 emphasizes the urgent need for global action to deal with air pollution, which continues to endanger public health around the world. While a handful of Earth has successfully maintained clean air, the vast majority do not meet the safe standards of air quality, leading to significant health risks.
The findings underline the critical role played by both government policies and individual actions in improving air quality. By learning from countries that preferred sustainability, it is possible for other nations to follow and seek to create a healthier environment for their citizens. As Frank Hammes stressed, there are a solution to this global health crisis; Now it is time to implement them to protect the future of our planet and its inhabitants.