Average PM2.5 levels in most polluted countries worldwide 2019-2020
Bangladesh had an average PM2.5 concentration of 77.1 micrograms per cubic meter of air (µg/m3) in 2020, making it the most polluted country in the world. This was roughly 20 µg/m3 higher than in the second most polluted country, Pakistan. The high levels of pollution in Bangladesh can be explained by the brick industry, with thousands of coal-fired kilns pumping out harmful pollutants following a construction industry boom. Many countries around the world experienced improved air quality in 2020 compared to the previous year, mainly as a result of restrictions on economic activity and travel brought on by the outbreak of COVID-19.
During peak lockdowns brought on by the outbreak of COVID-19 in 2020, many cities around the world experienced reductions in PM2.5 concentrations. In the period of March 23rd to April 13th, 2020, PM2.5 emissions in Delhi fell by 60 percent compared to the same period in 2019.
What are PM2.5 pollutants
PM2.5 refers to fine particles that have a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less. Major PM2.5 contributors include solid waste burning, vehicles, and power plants. These tiny, light, and inhalable pollutants can stay in the air for long periods of time and are a major risk to human health when concentrations are high. The World Health Organization advises that annual mean PM2.5 concentrations should not exceed 10 µg/m3.Pollution in cities
Delhi is the most polluted capital city in the world, with concentrations averaging 98.6 µg/m3 in 2019. The World Health Organization advises that annual mean PM2.5 concentrations should not exceed 10 µg/m3.During peak lockdowns brought on by the outbreak of COVID-19 in 2020, many cities around the world experienced reductions in PM2.5 concentrations. In the period of March 23rd to April 13th, 2020, PM2.5 emissions in Delhi fell by 60 percent compared to the same period in 2019.
