What Countries Have the Cleanest and Dirtiest Air?
It’s common knowledge that air pollution affects all of us and that air quality varies from place to place. So, if you’re looking for a place to relocate or to take a vacation, it’s important to consider air pollution as an important factor as it can be a measure of your health and the health of your family.
With this in mind, this article takes a look at the countries with the most polluted and the cleanest air. We’ll also share some tips at the end on how to reduce your exposure to air pollution. Let’s get started.
What is Air Quality?
First, let’s define air quality. Air quality is affected by the presence of substances and particles in the air that can be harmful to people’s health. These particles can come from car exhausts, industrial activities, and other sources.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has set air quality guidelines which measure air quality by the amount of microscopic particulate matter in a cubic meter of air (PM 2.5). The more PM 2.5 there is, the worse the air quality is. In addition, air quality can also be measured by ozone levels, nitrogen dioxide and sulfur dioxide.
Which Countries Have the Cleanest Air?
When it comes to the countries with the cleanest air, things can change quickly. But overall, these countries come out on top.
● Finland
● Sweden
● Estonia
● Mongolia
● Canada
● United States
● Lithuania
● New Zealand
● Norway
● Mongolia
Which Countries Have the Dirtiest Air?
On the other hand, the countries with the dirtiest air tend to be in regions affected by overcrowding and inefficiently regulated emissions. Here are some of the worst offenders:
● Bangladesh
● Pakistan
● Afghanistan
● India
● Qatar
● Mongolia
● United Arab Emirates
● Saudi Arabia
● Iraq
● China
What Can You Do To Avoid Air Pollution?
The good news is that there are a number of things you can do to reduce your risk of exposure to air pollution.
- Check the Air Quality Index
Checking the air quality index on a daily basis can help you manage your exposure to air pollutants. The Air Quality Index (AQI) is an index used to report daily air quality. The higher the AQI number, the greater the health concern. Most air quality websites list readings for different pollutants.
- Limit Outdoor Activities
When the air quality is poor, it’s best to limit or avoid outdoor activities. If you must go out, wear a face mask with an N95 rating or higher.
- Choose an Energy-Efficient Vehicle
Choose an energy-efficient vehicle, such as a hybrid or electric car, when purchasing a new car. These vehicles have lower emissions and thus, fewer pollutants.
- Use Renewable Energy Sources
Renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, produce fewer emissions and are better for the environment. Even making small changes, such as installing solar panels, turning off lights and appliances when not in use, and reducing your water usage can make a big difference.
Air pollution is a serious problem throughout the world. It affects everyone, but some countries are more affected than others. Knowing which countries have the cleanest and dirtiest air can help make informed decisions about where to live, visit, and even what vehicle you buy. Additionally, there are a variety of steps you can take to reduce your exposure to air pollution. We hope you have a better understanding of the matter now and that you can stay safe and healthy.