World Air Quality Report 2024: Key Insights and Global Trends

The 7th annual World Air Quality Report 2024, published by IQAir, provides a comprehensive evaluation of global air quality based on PM2.5 concentrations. This report highlights the most polluted regions, countries meeting WHO guidelines, and emerging air quality trends, emphasizing the urgent need for environmental action.

Key Findings of the World Air Quality Report 2024

1. Countries Meeting WHO PM2.5 Guidelines

   • Only seven countries successfully met the World Health Organization’s (WHO) annual PM2.5 guideline of 5 µg/m³:

     • Australia

     • Bahamas

     • Barbados

     • Estonia

     • Grenada

     • Iceland

     • New Zealand

2. Most Polluted Countries (2024)

   • The five most polluted countries based on PM2.5 levels were:

     1. Chad (Highest PM2.5 concentration)

     2. Bangladesh

     3. Pakistan

     4. Democratic Republic of Congo

     5. India

3. India’s Air Quality Status

   • Delhi remains the most polluted capital city globally.

   • Byrnihat (Assam) was identified as the most polluted metropolitan area in 2024, reflecting a significant rise in air pollution levels in Northeast India.

4. Cleanest Region

   • Oceania was recognized as the world’s cleanest region, with consistently low PM2.5 concentrations across its countries.

Understanding PM2.5 and Its Impact

• PM2.5 Definition: Fine particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less. It is a major air pollutant causing serious health risks.

• Health Effects: Long-term exposure to PM2.5 can cause respiratory diseases, cardiovascular conditions, and reduced life expectancy.

Why Is Air Quality Monitoring Important?

1. Public Health: Poor air quality increases the risk of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.

2. Climate Change: Pollutants like PM2.5 contribute to global warming and environmental degradation.

3. Policy Formulation: Accurate data helps governments design effective pollution control policies.

India’s Air Pollution Crisis

• Sources of Pollution:

  • Industrial emissions

  • Vehicle exhaust

  • Agricultural burning

  • Construction dust

• Government Initiatives:

  • National Clean Air Programme (NCAP): Targets a 40% reduction in PM2.5 levels by 2026.

  • Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP): Implements emergency measures in Delhi-NCR during severe pollution episodes.

Global Response to Air Pollution

1. WHO Guidelines: Recommends an annual PM2.5 concentration limit of 5 µg/m³.

2. International Cooperation: Countries collaborate under agreements like the Paris Climate Accord to reduce air pollutants.

Way Forward

1. Strengthen Policy Implementation: Enforce stringent regulations on industrial emissions and vehicle standards.

2. Invest in Clean Technology: Promote renewable energy and sustainable urban planning.

3. Public Awareness: Educate citizens on air pollution impacts and encourage community-led solutions.

UPSC Prelims Question

Consider the following statements regarding the World Air Quality Report 2024:

1. Only five countries met the WHO’s annual PM2.5 guideline of 5 µg/m³.

2. Delhi remains the most polluted capital city globally.

3. Oceania is recognized as the cleanest region in the world.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 2 only

UPSC Mains Question

Q. Discuss the findings of the World Air Quality Report 2024 and analyze the challenges India faces in improving its air quality. Suggest policy measures to address these challenges.

(GS Paper 3 – Environment & Ecology)

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