Introduction
Air pollution is a pressing global issue, and some countries face more significant challenges than others in combating this environmental threat. The most polluted countries in the world, such as Chad, Iraq, and Pakistan, grapple with a multitude of factors that contribute to their high levels of pollution. Rapid industrialization, inadequate environmental regulations, heavy reliance on fossil fuels, population growth, and poor waste management practices are among the key reasons behind their severe pollution. These countries often struggle to strike a balance between economic development and environmental sustainability, leading to detrimental consequences for the air quality and the health of their populations.
Most Polluting Countries
| # | Country | Air Pollution (2022) | Percentage Change (vs. 2021) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chad | 89.7 μg/m³ | 18.18% |
| 2 | Iraq | 80.1 μg/m³ | 61.17% |
| 3 | Pakistan | 70.9 μg/m³ | 6.14% |
| 4 | Bahrain | 66.6 μg/m³ | 33.73% |
| 5 | Bangladesh | 65.8 μg/m³ | -14.43% |
| 6 | Burkina Faso | 63 μg/m³ | % |
| 7 | Kuwait | 55.8 μg/m³ | 87.88% |
| 8 | India | 53.3 μg/m³ | -8.26% |
| 9 | Egypt | 46.5 μg/m³ | 59.79% |
| 10 | Tajikistan | 46 μg/m³ | -22.56% |
| 11 | United Arab Emirates | 45.9 μg/m³ | 27.5% |
| 12 | Sudan | 44.6 μg/m³ | 1.13% |
| 13 | Rwanda | 44 μg/m³ | % |
| 14 | Qatar | 42.5 μg/m³ | 11.26% |
| 15 | Saudi Arabia | 41.5 μg/m³ | 26.91% |
| 16 | Nepal | 40.1 μg/m³ | -12.83% |
| 17 | Uganda | 39.6 μg/m³ | 43.48% |
| 18 | Nigeria | 36.9 μg/m³ | 8.53% |
| 19 | Uzbekistan | 33.5 μg/m³ | -21.73% |
| 20 | Iran | 32.5 μg/m³ | 7.26% |
| 21 | Armenia | 31.4 μg/m³ | -7.37% |
| 22 | Ethiopia | 31.3 μg/m³ | 30.96% |
| 23 | Kyrgyzstan | 31.1 μg/m³ | -38.78% |
| 24 | People's Republic of China | 30.6 μg/m³ | -6.13% |
| 25 | Indonesia | 30.4 μg/m³ | -11.37% |
| 26 | Ghana | 30.2 μg/m³ | 16.6% |
| 27 | Mongolia | 29.5 μg/m³ | -10.88% |
| 28 | Laos | 27.6 μg/m³ | 28.37% |
| 29 | Vietnam | 27.2 μg/m³ | 10.12% |
| 30 | Gabon | 25 μg/m³ | % |
| 31 | Serbia | 24.7 μg/m³ | -3.14% |
| 32 | Zambia | 24.6 μg/m³ | % |
| 33 | Myanmar | 24.3 μg/m³ | -6.18% |
| 34 | Madagascar | 23.7 μg/m³ | 12.86% |
| 35 | Croatia | 23.5 μg/m³ | -7.48% |
| 36 | Peru | 23.5 μg/m³ | -20.61% |
| 37 | South Africa | 23.4 μg/m³ | 3.08% |
| 38 | Kazakhstan | 23 μg/m³ | -26.05% |
| 39 | Moldova | 22.6 μg/m³ | % |
| 40 | Ivory Coast | 22.5 μg/m³ | % |
| 41 | Chile | 22.2 μg/m³ | 2.3% |
| 42 | Turkmenistan | 21.6 μg/m³ | 5.88% |
| 43 | Turkey | 21.1 μg/m³ | 5.5% |
| 44 | Sri Lanka | 20.7 μg/m³ | 18.97% |
| 45 | Senegal | 20.4 μg/m³ | % |
| 46 | Syria | 20 μg/m³ | -13.04% |
| 47 | Mexico | 19.5 μg/m³ | 1.04% |
| 48 | Greece | 19 μg/m³ | 0% |
| 49 | Azerbaijan | 18.9 μg/m³ | 7.39% |
| 50 | Italy | 18.9 μg/m³ | 24.34% |
| 51 | Israel | 18.8 μg/m³ | 0.53% |
| 52 | Guatemala | 18.6 μg/m³ | -4.62% |
| 53 | Bulgaria | 18.3 μg/m³ | 12.27% |
| 54 | South Korea | 18.3 μg/m³ | -4.19% |
| 55 | Thailand | 18.1 μg/m³ | -10.4% |
| 56 | Algeria | 17.8 μg/m³ | -11% |
| 57 | Malaysia | 17.7 μg/m³ | -8.76% |
| 58 | Romania | 17.2 μg/m³ | 12.42% |
| 59 | Georgia | 17 μg/m³ | -19.05% |
| 60 | Poland | 16.3 μg/m³ | -14.66% |
| 61 | Colombia | 15.7 μg/m³ | 11.35% |
| 62 | Montenegro | 15.7 μg/m³ | -55.4% |
| 63 | Cyprus | 15.6 μg/m³ | 5.41% |
| 64 | Democratic Republic of the Congo | 15.5 μg/m³ | % |
| 65 | Macau | 15.4 μg/m³ | -9.41% |
| 66 | Slovenia | 15.1 μg/m³ | 13.53% |
| 67 | Philippines | 14.9 μg/m³ | -4.49% |
| 68 | Kosovo | 14.7 μg/m³ | 0% |
| 69 | Albania | 14.5 μg/m³ | 16% |
| 70 | Hong Kong | 14.5 μg/m³ | -8.81% |
| 71 | Slovakia | 14.5 μg/m³ | -9.38% |
| 72 | El Salvador | 14.2 μg/m³ | % |
| 73 | Czech Republic | 13.4 μg/m³ | -3.6% |
| 74 | Taiwan | 13.4 μg/m³ | -17.28% |
| 75 | Singapore | 13.3 μg/m³ | -3.62% |
| 76 | Lithuania | 13.2 μg/m³ | 0% |
| 77 | Guyana | 12.6 μg/m³ | % |
| 78 | Hungary | 12.6 μg/m³ | -18.71% |
| 79 | Brazil | 12.2 μg/m³ | -10.29% |
| 80 | Malta | 11.7 μg/m³ | -13.33% |
| 81 | France | 11.5 μg/m³ | 0.88% |
| 82 | Kenya | 11.5 μg/m³ | -19.58% |
| 83 | Uruguay | 11.3 μg/m³ | -20.42% |
| 84 | Russia | 11.2 μg/m³ | -8.94% |
| 85 | Germany | 11 μg/m³ | 3.77% |
| 86 | Netherlands | 11 μg/m³ | -2.65% |
| 87 | Maldives | 10.9 μg/m³ | % |
| 88 | Spain | 10.9 μg/m³ | 1.87% |
| 89 | Belgium | 10.8 μg/m³ | -6.09% |
| 90 | Austria | 10.6 μg/m³ | -7.02% |
| 91 | Honduras | 10.2 μg/m³ | -13.56% |
| 92 | Latvia | 10.1 μg/m³ | % |
| 93 | Switzerland | 10 μg/m³ | -7.41% |
| 94 | Ukraine | 9.7 μg/m³ | -47.57% |
| 95 | Japan | 9.1 μg/m³ | 0% |
| 96 | Panama | 9 μg/m³ | % |
| 97 | Nicaragua | 8.9 μg/m³ | % |
| 98 | United Kingdom | 8.9 μg/m³ | 1.14% |
| 99 | United States of America | 8.9 μg/m³ | -13.59% |
| 100 | Angola | 8.8 μg/m³ | -20% |
| 101 | Denmark | 8.6 μg/m³ | -10.42% |
| 102 | Cambodia | 8.3 μg/m³ | -58.08% |
| 103 | Liechtenstein | 8.3 μg/m³ | 15.28% |
| 104 | Portugal | 8.1 μg/m³ | 14.08% |
| 105 | Costa Rica | 7.9 μg/m³ | 1.28% |
| 106 | Argentina | 7.7 μg/m³ | -6.1% |
| 107 | Ireland | 7.5 μg/m³ | -6.25% |
| 108 | Canada | 7.4 μg/m³ | -12.94% |
| 109 | Luxembourg | 7.4 μg/m³ | -17.78% |
| 110 | Bolivia | 7.3 μg/m³ | % |
| 111 | Norway | 7 μg/m³ | -6.67% |
| 112 | Suriname | 7 μg/m³ | % |
| 113 | Sweden | 6.2 μg/m³ | -6.06% |
| 114 | Belize | 5.6 μg/m³ | % |
| 115 | Andorra | 5.4 μg/m³ | -26.03% |
| 116 | Trinidad and Tobago | 5.1 μg/m³ | -28.17% |
| 117 | Finland | 5 μg/m³ | -9.09% |
| 118 | Estonia | 4.9 μg/m³ | -16.95% |
| 119 | New Zealand | 4.8 μg/m³ | -29.41% |
| 120 | Puerto Rico | 4.3 μg/m³ | -10.42% |
| 121 | Australia | 4.2 μg/m³ | -26.32% |
| 122 | Grenada | 3.8 μg/m³ | -30.91% |
| 123 | New Caledonia | 3.5 μg/m³ | -7.89% |
| 124 | Iceland | 3.4 μg/m³ | -44.26% |
| 125 | Bermuda | 3 μg/m³ | % |
| 126 | Guam | 1.3 μg/m³ | % |
Most Polluted Countries
The ten most polluted countries in the world bear the burden of grappling with severe air pollution levels and their detrimental effects on public health and the environment – these countries are Chad, Iraq, Pakistan, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, Kuwait, India, Egypt, Tajikistan.
Topping the list is Chad, with an air pollution level of 89.7 μg/m³, earning the country the unfortunate distinction of being the most polluted. Iraq follows closely behind as the second most polluted country, reporting an air pollution level of 80.1 μg/m³. Pakistan secures the third spot for most polluted countries, with an air pollution level of 70.9 μg/m³. Bahrain ranks as the fourth most polluted country in the world, experiencing an air pollution level of 66.6 μg/m³, while Bangladesh, in the fifth position for most polluting countries, reports 65.8 μg/m³.
Burkina Faso ranks sixth with an air pollution level of 63 μg/m³, followed by Kuwait in the seventh position with 55.8 μg/m³. India claims the eighth spot for most polluting countries, reporting an air pollution level of 53.3 μg/m³, while Egypt ranks ninth with 46.5 μg/m³. Tajikistan rounds out the top ten most polluted countries, with an air pollution level of 46 μg/m³.
The ten most polluted countries in the world are :
1. Chad – 89.7 μg/m³
2. Iraq – 80.1 μg/m³
3. Pakistan – 70.9 μg/m³
4. Bahrain – 66.6 μg/m³
5. Bangladesh – 65.8 μg/m³
6. Burkina Faso – 63 μg/m³
7. Kuwait – 55.8 μg/m³
8. India – 53.3 μg/m³
9. Egypt – 46.5 μg/m³
10. Tajikistan – 46 μg/m³
Worst Air Quality in the World
With an air pollution level of 89.7 μg/m³, Chad holds the unfortunate distinction of having the worst air quality in the world. The country’s staggering pollution levels pose a grave threat to public health and the environment. Chad’s challenges in combating air pollution stem from various factors, including rapid urbanization, industrial activities, biomass burning, and inadequate environmental regulations. The detrimental effects of high pollution levels can lead to respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems, and a reduced quality of life for its citizens.
Best Air Quality in the World
With an impressively low air pollution level of just 1.3 μg/m³, Guam is recognized as having the best air quality in the world. This Pacific island territory boasts pristine and clean air, offering its residents and visitors a breath of fresh air. Guam’s favorable air quality can be attributed to several factors, including its remote location, limited industrial activities, and proactive environmental policies. The island’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty and mitigating pollution has resulted in a pollution-free environment that promotes the well-being and health of its inhabitants.
Most Polluted Cities in the World
The ten most polluted cities in the world are characterized by alarmingly high levels of air pollution, posing significant health risks to their inhabitants. These cities suffer from a combination of factors such as industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust, agricultural activities, and poor waste management. Delhi, in India, is often considered as the most polluted city in the world, with its hazardous air quality index due to vehicular pollution, construction dust, and crop burning. Following closely are cities like Dhaka in Bangladesh, Kabul in Afghanistan, Ulaanbaatar in Mongolia, and Cairo in Egypt, all grappling with severe pollution issues. Other cities on the list include Kathmandu in Nepal, Wuhan in China, Lagos in Nigeria, Lahore in Pakistan, and Jakarta in Indonesia.
Pollution by Country
Albania
Air Pollution
14.5 μg/m³
↑ 16%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#69
4.53 Mt
Ranked in the World
#127
Algeria
Air Pollution
17.8 μg/m³
↓ 11%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#56
155 Mt
Ranked in the World
#30
Andorra
Air Pollution
5.4 μg/m³
↓ 26.03%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#115
0.47 Mt
Ranked in the World
#167
Angola
Air Pollution
8.8 μg/m³
↓ 20%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#100
22.2 Mt
Ranked in the World
#80
Argentina
Air Pollution
7.7 μg/m³
↓ 6.1%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#106
156.98 Mt
Ranked in the World
#29
Armenia
Air Pollution
31.4 μg/m³
↓ 7.37%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#21
5.89 Mt
Ranked in the World
#122
Australia
Air Pollution
4.2 μg/m³
↓ 26.32%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#121
391.89 Mt
Ranked in the World
#15
Austria
Air Pollution
10.6 μg/m³
↓ 7.02%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#90
60.63 Mt
Ranked in the World
#49
Azerbaijan
Air Pollution
18.9 μg/m³
↑ 7.39%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#49
37.72 Mt
Ranked in the World
#62
Bahrain
Air Pollution
66.6 μg/m³
↑ 33.73%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#4
34.96 Mt
Ranked in the World
#66
In fourth place among the most polluted countries is Bahrain, with an air pollution level of 66.6 μg/m³. The country witnessed a significant increase of 33.73% in pollution levels compared to the previous year, emphasizing the need for urgent action.
Bangladesh
Air Pollution
65.8 μg/m³
↓ 14.43%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#5
92.84 Mt
Ranked in the World
#37
Bangladesh, with an air pollution level of 65.8 μg/m³, experienced a slight improvement with a decrease of 14.43%. However, air quality continues to be a concern in this South Asian nation.
Belgium
Air Pollution
10.8 μg/m³
↓ 6.09%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#89
83.75 Mt
Ranked in the World
#43
Belize
Air Pollution
5.6 μg/m³
-
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#114
0.58 Mt
Ranked in the World
#162
Bermuda
Air Pollution
3 μg/m³
-
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#125
Bolivia
Air Pollution
7.3 μg/m³
-
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#110
20.7 Mt
Ranked in the World
#83
Brazil
Air Pollution
12.2 μg/m³
↓ 10.29%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#79
467.38 Mt
Ranked in the World
#12
Bulgaria
Air Pollution
18.3 μg/m³
↑ 12.27%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#53
37.44 Mt
Ranked in the World
#63
Burkina Faso
Air Pollution
63 μg/m³
-
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#6
3.97 Mt
Ranked in the World
#130
Burkina Faso ranks sixth on the list of most polluting countries, reporting an air pollution level of 63 μg/m³.
Cambodia
Air Pollution
8.3 μg/m³
↓ 58.08%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#102
15.33 Mt
Ranked in the World
#91
Canada
Air Pollution
7.4 μg/m³
↓ 12.94%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#108
535.82 Mt
Ranked in the World
#11
Chad
Air Pollution
89.7 μg/m³
↑ 18.18%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#1
0.91 Mt
Ranked in the World
#158
Topping the list of countries that pollute the most is Chad, with an air pollution level of 89.7 μg/m³. Despite a concerning 18.18% increase in pollution compared to 2021, efforts to address air quality remain vital in this African nation.
Chile
Air Pollution
22.2 μg/m³
↑ 2.3%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#41
81.17 Mt
Ranked in the World
#44
Colombia
Air Pollution
15.7 μg/m³
↑ 11.35%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#61
89.1 Mt
Ranked in the World
#38
Costa Rica
Air Pollution
7.9 μg/m³
↑ 1.28%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#105
7.91 Mt
Ranked in the World
#109
Croatia
Air Pollution
23.5 μg/m³
↓ 7.48%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#35
16.98 Mt
Ranked in the World
#87
Cyprus
Air Pollution
15.6 μg/m³
↑ 5.41%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#63
6.5 Mt
Ranked in the World
#120
Czech Republic
Air Pollution
13.4 μg/m³
↓ 3.6%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#73
87.97 Mt
Ranked in the World
#41
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Air Pollution
15.5 μg/m³
-
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#64
2.48 Mt
Ranked in the World
#140
Denmark
Air Pollution
8.6 μg/m³
↓ 10.42%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#101
26.19 Mt
Ranked in the World
#77
Egypt
Air Pollution
46.5 μg/m³
↑ 59.79%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#9
Egypt occupies the ninth spot on the list of most polluted countries, reporting an air pollution level of 46.5 μg/m³. With a considerable increase of 59.79%, the country needs to implement effective measures to combat pollution.
El Salvador
Air Pollution
14.2 μg/m³
-
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#72
6.12 Mt
Ranked in the World
#121
Estonia
Air Pollution
4.9 μg/m³
↓ 16.95%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#118
10.45 Mt
Ranked in the World
#100
Ethiopia
Air Pollution
31.3 μg/m³
↑ 30.96%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#22
14.66 Mt
Ranked in the World
#92
Finland
Air Pollution
5 μg/m³
↓ 9.09%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#117
39.29 Mt
Ranked in the World
#60
France
Air Pollution
11.5 μg/m³
↑ 0.88%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#81
276.63 Mt
Ranked in the World
#21
Gabon
Air Pollution
25 μg/m³
-
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#30
4.3 Mt
Ranked in the World
#128
Georgia
Air Pollution
17 μg/m³
↓ 19.05%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#59
9.97 Mt
Ranked in the World
#104
Germany
Air Pollution
11 μg/m³
↑ 3.77%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#85
644.31 Mt
Ranked in the World
#7
Ghana
Air Pollution
30.2 μg/m³
↑ 16.6%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#26
16 Mt
Ranked in the World
#90
Greece
Air Pollution
19 μg/m³
- 0%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#48
52.24 Mt
Ranked in the World
#52
Grenada
Air Pollution
3.8 μg/m³
↓ 30.91%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#122
0.29 Mt
Ranked in the World
#172
Guam
Air Pollution
1.3 μg/m³
-
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#126
Guatemala
Air Pollution
18.6 μg/m³
↓ 4.62%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#52
18.94 Mt
Ranked in the World
#85
Guyana
Air Pollution
12.6 μg/m³
-
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#77
2.21 Mt
Ranked in the World
#144
Honduras
Air Pollution
10.2 μg/m³
↓ 13.56%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#91
9.66 Mt
Ranked in the World
#106
Hong Kong
Air Pollution
14.5 μg/m³
↓ 8.81%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#70
Hungary
Air Pollution
12.6 μg/m³
↓ 18.71%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#78
48.28 Mt
Ranked in the World
#54
Iceland
Air Pollution
3.4 μg/m³
↓ 44.26%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#124
2.94 Mt
Ranked in the World
#137
India
Air Pollution
53.3 μg/m³
↓ 8.26%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#8
2,441.79 Mt
Ranked in the World
#3
India, one of the most populous countries, ranks as the eighth most polluting country, with an air pollution level of 53.3 μg/m³. While there was a decrease of 8.26%, the country still faces significant challenges in tackling air pollution and its health impacts.
Indonesia
Air Pollution
30.4 μg/m³
↓ 11.37%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#25
589.5 Mt
Ranked in the World
#10
Iran
Air Pollution
32.5 μg/m³
↑ 7.26%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#20
745.04 Mt
Ranked in the World
#6
Iran closes the top 20 most polluting countries, with an air pollution level of 32.5 μg/m³. The country experienced a modest increase of 7.26%, necessitating ongoing measures to address pollution sources and protect public health.
Iraq
Air Pollution
80.1 μg/m³
↑ 61.17%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#2
210.83 Mt
Ranked in the World
#27
Iraq ranks second among the top polluting countries, with an air pollution level of 80.1 μg/m³, experiencing a substantial 61.17% increase from the previous year.
Ireland
Air Pollution
7.5 μg/m³
↓ 6.25%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#107
33.35 Mt
Ranked in the World
#69
Israel
Air Pollution
18.8 μg/m³
↑ 0.53%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#51
56.35 Mt
Ranked in the World
#51
Italy
Air Pollution
18.9 μg/m³
↑ 24.34%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#50
303.82 Mt
Ranked in the World
#18
Ivory Coast
Air Pollution
22.5 μg/m³
-
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#40
Japan
Air Pollution
9.1 μg/m³
- 0%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#95
1,030.78 Mt
Ranked in the World
#5
Kazakhstan
Air Pollution
23 μg/m³
↓ 26.05%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#38
291.34 Mt
Ranked in the World
#20
Kenya
Air Pollution
11.5 μg/m³
↓ 19.58%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#82
16.15 Mt
Ranked in the World
#89
Kosovo
Air Pollution
14.7 μg/m³
- 0%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#68
Kuwait
Air Pollution
55.8 μg/m³
↑ 87.88%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#7
88.94 Mt
Ranked in the World
#39
Kuwait witnessed a significant increase in air pollution levels, ranking seventh most polluted country, with 55.8 μg/m³ and experiencing an alarming 87.88% rise.
Kyrgyzstan
Air Pollution
31.1 μg/m³
↓ 38.78%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#23
11.51 Mt
Ranked in the World
#96
Laos
Air Pollution
27.6 μg/m³
↑ 28.37%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#28
33.85 Mt
Ranked in the World
#67
Latvia
Air Pollution
10.1 μg/m³
-
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#92
6.77 Mt
Ranked in the World
#114
Liechtenstein
Air Pollution
8.3 μg/m³
↑ 15.28%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#103
0.14 Mt
Ranked in the World
#183
Lithuania
Air Pollution
13.2 μg/m³
- 0%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#76
13.8 Mt
Ranked in the World
#93
Luxembourg
Air Pollution
7.4 μg/m³
↓ 17.78%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#109
8.17 Mt
Ranked in the World
#108
Macau
Air Pollution
15.4 μg/m³
↓ 9.41%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#65
Madagascar
Air Pollution
23.7 μg/m³
↑ 12.86%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#34
3.68 Mt
Ranked in the World
#132
Malaysia
Air Pollution
17.7 μg/m³
↓ 8.76%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#57
272.61 Mt
Ranked in the World
#22
Maldives
Air Pollution
10.9 μg/m³
-
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#87
1.8 Mt
Ranked in the World
#148
Malta
Air Pollution
11.7 μg/m³
↓ 13.33%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#80
1.59 Mt
Ranked in the World
#150
Mexico
Air Pollution
19.5 μg/m³
↑ 1.04%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#47
356.97 Mt
Ranked in the World
#16
Moldova
Air Pollution
22.6 μg/m³
-
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#39
5.15 Mt
Ranked in the World
#124
Mongolia
Air Pollution
29.5 μg/m³
↓ 10.88%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#27
88.44 Mt
Ranked in the World
#40
Montenegro
Air Pollution
15.7 μg/m³
↓ 55.4%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#62
2.31 Mt
Ranked in the World
#142
Myanmar
Air Pollution
24.3 μg/m³
↓ 6.18%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#33
36.33 Mt
Ranked in the World
#64
Nepal
Air Pollution
40.1 μg/m³
↓ 12.83%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#16
16.96 Mt
Ranked in the World
#88
Nepal ranks 16th most polluted country, reporting an air pollution level of 40.1 μg/m³. Despite a decrease of 12.83%, efforts to combat air pollution remain critical, especially in urban areas like Kathmandu.
Netherlands
Air Pollution
11 μg/m³
↓ 2.65%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#86
138.1 Mt
Ranked in the World
#32
New Caledonia
Air Pollution
3.5 μg/m³
↓ 7.89%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#123
New Zealand
Air Pollution
4.8 μg/m³
↓ 29.41%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#119
33.48 Mt
Ranked in the World
#68
Nicaragua
Air Pollution
8.9 μg/m³
-
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#97
5.07 Mt
Ranked in the World
#125
Nigeria
Air Pollution
36.9 μg/m³
↑ 8.53%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#18
125.46 Mt
Ranked in the World
#34
With an air pollution level of 36.9 μg/m³, Nigeria ranks 18th most polluted country in the world. The country experienced an increase of 8.53%, highlighting the importance of implementing sustainable practices to address air quality issues.
Norway
Air Pollution
7 μg/m³
↓ 6.67%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#111
41.28 Mt
Ranked in the World
#58
Pakistan
Air Pollution
70.9 μg/m³
↑ 6.14%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#3
234.75 Mt
Ranked in the World
#25
Pakistan, with an air pollution level of 70.9 μg/m³, is the third most polluted country. While showing a relatively smaller increase of 6.14%, sustained efforts are necessary to combat air pollution in this densely populated country.
Panama
Air Pollution
9 μg/m³
-
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#96
10.78 Mt
Ranked in the World
#98
People's Republic of China
Air Pollution
30.6 μg/m³
↓ 6.13%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#24
10,667.89 Mt
Ranked in the World
#1
Peru
Air Pollution
23.5 μg/m³
↓ 20.61%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#36
44.71 Mt
Ranked in the World
#56
Philippines
Air Pollution
14.9 μg/m³
↓ 4.49%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#67
136.02 Mt
Ranked in the World
#33
Poland
Air Pollution
16.3 μg/m³
↓ 14.66%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#60
299.59 Mt
Ranked in the World
#19
Portugal
Air Pollution
8.1 μg/m³
↑ 14.08%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#104
40.39 Mt
Ranked in the World
#59
Puerto Rico
Air Pollution
4.3 μg/m³
↓ 10.42%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#120
Qatar
Air Pollution
42.5 μg/m³
↑ 11.26%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#14
106.66 Mt
Ranked in the World
#36
Qatar reports an air pollution level of 42.5 μg/m³, securing the 14th spot among the most polluted countries in the world. With a modest increase of 11.26%, the country's initiatives to reduce emissions and improve air quality are noteworthy.
Romania
Air Pollution
17.2 μg/m³
↑ 12.42%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#58
71.47 Mt
Ranked in the World
#46
Russia
Air Pollution
11.2 μg/m³
↓ 8.94%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#84
1,577.14 Mt
Ranked in the World
#4
Rwanda
Air Pollution
44 μg/m³
-
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#13
1.03 Mt
Ranked in the World
#155
Ranking 13th most polluted country in the world is Rwanda, with an air pollution level of 44 μg/m³.
Saudi Arabia
Air Pollution
41.5 μg/m³
↑ 26.91%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#15
625.51 Mt
Ranked in the World
#8
In the 15th position for most polluting countries is Saudi Arabia, with an air pollution level of 41.5 μg/m³. The country experienced a significant increase of 26.91%, emphasizing the need for stricter regulations and cleaner energy alternatives.
Senegal
Air Pollution
20.4 μg/m³
-
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#45
10.45 Mt
Ranked in the World
#101
Serbia
Air Pollution
24.7 μg/m³
↓ 3.14%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#31
43.14 Mt
Ranked in the World
#57
Singapore
Air Pollution
13.3 μg/m³
↓ 3.62%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#75
45.5 Mt
Ranked in the World
#55
Slovakia
Air Pollution
14.5 μg/m³
↓ 9.38%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#71
30.73 Mt
Ranked in the World
#72
Slovenia
Air Pollution
15.1 μg/m³
↑ 13.53%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#66
12.56 Mt
Ranked in the World
#94
South Africa
Air Pollution
23.4 μg/m³
↑ 3.08%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#37
451.96 Mt
Ranked in the World
#13
South Korea
Air Pollution
18.3 μg/m³
↓ 4.19%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#54
597.61 Mt
Ranked in the World
#9
Spain
Air Pollution
10.9 μg/m³
↑ 1.87%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#88
208.91 Mt
Ranked in the World
#28
Sri Lanka
Air Pollution
20.7 μg/m³
↑ 18.97%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#44
21.11 Mt
Ranked in the World
#82
Sudan
Air Pollution
44.6 μg/m³
↑ 1.13%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#12
18.86 Mt
Ranked in the World
#86
Sudan holds the 12th position among the most polluted countries in the world, reporting an air pollution level of 44.6 μg/m³. While experiencing a slight increase of 1.13%, efforts to address pollution sources can contribute to better air quality.
Suriname
Air Pollution
7 μg/m³
-
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#112
2.22 Mt
Ranked in the World
#143
Sweden
Air Pollution
6.2 μg/m³
↓ 6.06%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#113
38.63 Mt
Ranked in the World
#61
Switzerland
Air Pollution
10 μg/m³
↓ 7.41%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#93
32.3 Mt
Ranked in the World
#70
Syria
Air Pollution
20 μg/m³
↓ 13.04%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#46
30.53 Mt
Ranked in the World
#73
Taiwan
Air Pollution
13.4 μg/m³
↓ 17.28%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#74
Tajikistan
Air Pollution
46 μg/m³
↓ 22.56%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#10
9.45 Mt
Ranked in the World
#107
Tajikistan closes the top ten most polluted countries, with an air pollution level of 46 μg/m³ and a decrease of 22.56%. While progress has been made, sustained efforts are necessary to maintain air quality improvements.
Thailand
Air Pollution
18.1 μg/m³
↓ 10.4%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#55
257.77 Mt
Ranked in the World
#23
Trinidad and Tobago
Air Pollution
5.1 μg/m³
↓ 28.17%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#116
35.51 Mt
Ranked in the World
#65
Turkey
Air Pollution
21.1 μg/m³
↑ 5.5%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#43
392.79 Mt
Ranked in the World
#14
Turkmenistan
Air Pollution
21.6 μg/m³
↑ 5.88%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#42
75.34 Mt
Ranked in the World
#45
Uganda
Air Pollution
39.6 μg/m³
↑ 43.48%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#17
4.89 Mt
Ranked in the World
#126
Uganda holds the 17th position on the list of most polluted countries, with an air pollution level of 39.6 μg/m³. Experiencing an increase of 43.48%, the country faces the challenge of balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability.
Ukraine
Air Pollution
9.7 μg/m³
↓ 47.57%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#94
213.46 Mt
Ranked in the World
#26
United Arab Emirates
Air Pollution
45.9 μg/m³
↑ 27.5%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#11
150.27 Mt
Ranked in the World
#31
The United Arab Emirates ranks as the 11th most polluted country in the world, with an air pollution level of 45.9 μg/m³. With a significant increase of 27.50%, the country faces the challenge of balancing rapid development with environmental sustainability.
United Kingdom
Air Pollution
8.9 μg/m³
↑ 1.14%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#98
329.58 Mt
Ranked in the World
#17
United States of America
Air Pollution
8.9 μg/m³
↓ 13.59%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#99
4,712.77 Mt
Ranked in the World
#2
Uruguay
Air Pollution
11.3 μg/m³
↓ 20.42%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#83
5.84 Mt
Ranked in the World
#123
Uzbekistan
Air Pollution
33.5 μg/m³
↓ 21.73%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#19
112.78 Mt
Ranked in the World
#35
Uzbekistan reports an air pollution level of 33.5 μg/m³, securing the 19th spot on the list for most polluted countries in the world. Despite a decrease of 21.73%, continued efforts to reduce emissions and improve air quality are essential.
Vietnam
Air Pollution
27.2 μg/m³
↑ 10.12%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#29
254.3 Mt
Ranked in the World
#24
Zambia
Air Pollution
24.6 μg/m³
-
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#32
6.57 Mt
Ranked in the World
#118
FAQs
Which country pollutes the most ?
The country that currently has the highest air pollution is Chad, with an air pollution level of 89.7 μg/m³.
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