Countries by Average PM2.5 Air Quality 2024

About This Dataset

Countries ranked by annual mean concentration of PM2.5 fine particulate matter in micrograms per cubic metre in 2024, according to IQAir World Air Quality Report data. Bangladesh and Pakistan consistently record the world's worst average air quality — with annual PM2.5 concentrations exceeding 70 micrograms per cubic metre, more than 14 times the WHO guideline of 5 micrograms. The health burden of this pollution — measured in reduced life expectancy, respiratory disease, and cardiovascular mortality — represents one of the most significant preventable public health crises in both countries.

✨ AI Insight

The data reveals a stark disparity in air quality, with Bangladesh and Pakistan exhibiting PM2.5 levels that are more than 14 times the WHO's recommended limit. Bangladesh's 79.9 µg/m³ is alarmingly high, indicating a critical public health crisis that could lead to increased respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. India, with an average of 53.3 µg/m³, and Tajikistan at 51.4 µg/m³, also struggle with air pollution but are considerably better off than the leaders. The trend suggests that without significant policy changes and pollution control measures, these countries will continue to face dire health consequences, highlighting the urgent need for international attention and action.

Source: Wikipedia

Key Findings

Auto-computed highlights from this dataset

🏆

Bangladesh leads with 80 in 2024.

📊

Average value in 2024: 45 · median: 49.

↔️

Gap in 2024: Bangladesh is 17.8× larger than Iceland.