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The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a public system that warns people about the level of air pollution in their area. The AQI is based on measurements of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), ozone (O3), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and carbon monoxide (CO) emissions. The AQI is divided into six colour-coded categories, each corresponding to a range of index values. For example, an AQI value of 50 or below represents good air quality, while an AQI value over 300 represents hazardous air quality. The AQI is used to inform the public about the current and forecasted air quality, as well as associated health risks, particularly for children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory or cardiovascular problems.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To communicate to the public about the current and forecasted air pollution levels and associated health risks |
| Pollutants measured | Ozone (O3), Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2), Sulfur Dioxide (SO2), Carbon Monoxide (CO), PM2.5 and PM10 particulate matter |
| Scoring | Non-linear scale with six color-coded categories, where higher values indicate greater pollution and health concerns |
| Categories | Good, Unhealthy for sensitive groups, Unhealthy, Hazardous, etc. |
| Actions | Reducing outdoor physical activity, wearing masks, using air purifiers, invoking emergency plans to reduce emissions |
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What You'll Learn
Air Quality Index (AQI)
The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a tool used to communicate information about outdoor air quality and health. It is a standardised index that is used to report on the quality of the air in a given location, with a particular focus on those who are sensitive to air pollution. The AQI is based on measurements of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), ozone (O3), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and carbon monoxide (CO) emissions. These measurements are taken from air monitors or models, and the concentration of pollutants over a specified time period is used to calculate the AQI. The higher the AQI value, the greater the level of air pollution and the greater the associated health concerns.
The AQI is divided into six categories, each with a specific colour code and health advisory. These categories range from good air quality (AQI value of 50 or below) to hazardous air quality (AQI value over 300). When the AQI value is at or below 100, the air quality is generally considered satisfactory. As the AQI value increases above 100, the air quality becomes increasingly unhealthy, first for sensitive groups of people and then for everyone as the value continues to rise.
The specific health risks associated with different levels of air pollution are established through epidemiological research. For example, high levels of air pollution can cause breathing discomfort for people with lung diseases such as asthma and for those with heart disease, children, and older adults. The AQI provides advice on how individuals can protect their health during periods of low, moderate, high, and very high health risks. Additionally, the AQI offers guidance on behavioural changes that can be made to reduce the environmental footprint and improve air quality.
The AQI is used in various countries, including the United States, Canada, Malaysia, Singapore, India, and Australia. Each country or region may have its own specific standards and scales for the AQI, reflecting the discourse surrounding the development of national air quality standards.
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How to protect yourself from air pollution
The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a rating system that shows the severity of pollution in the air on a scale from 0 to 500. It is a valuable tool to help protect yourself from poor air quality. The AQI is calculated by measuring five major pollutants: ground-level ozone, particulate matter (PM2.5), carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide. The higher the AQI value, the greater the level of air pollution and the more serious the health concern. An AQI value of 50 or below represents good air quality, while an AQI value over 300 represents hazardous air quality.
- Check daily air pollution forecasts in your area. Sources include local radio and TV weather reports, newspapers, and online resources. The color-coded forecasts can alert you when the air quality is unhealthy in your community.
- Avoid exercising outdoors when pollution levels are high. Move your workout indoors, such as walking in a shopping mall or using a gym.
- Limit the amount of time children spend playing outdoors if the air quality is unhealthy. Even if the forecasts are good, avoid having them play near high-traffic areas, as vehicles on busy highways can create high pollution levels nearby.
- Protect your indoor air quality. Avoid indoor air pollutants such as cigarette smoke, incense, candles, and smoke from cooking. Use less energy in your home, as generating electricity and other energy sources contribute to air pollution.
- When outdoors, wear a well-fitting mask that provides good filtration, such as an N95 or KN95 mask. Wear it in public transportation and when travelling in areas with high pollution levels.
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How to check your local air pollution score
Air pollution is a serious issue that can have detrimental effects on human health and the environment. It is important to stay informed about the air quality in your local area to take appropriate protective measures. Here are some ways you can check your local air pollution score and understand the air quality around you:
Air Quality Index (AQI)
The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a widely used tool to communicate about outdoor air quality and its potential health impacts. The AQI is often presented as a scale with six colour-coded categories, each representing a range of index values. These categories are assigned specific colours to help individuals quickly assess the air quality level in their communities. The higher the AQI value, the more severe the air pollution and the greater the health concern. For example, an AQI value of 50 or below generally indicates good air quality, while a value over 300 represents hazardous air quality. The AQI is calculated based on the measurement of several pollutants, including particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), ozone (O3), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and carbon monoxide (CO) emissions.
You can find your local AQI by visiting websites such as AirNow.gov, which provides an interactive map and allows you to search for air quality data by city or state. The AQI values are updated regularly, providing you with the most current information about the air pollution levels in your area.
Real-time Air Pollution Maps
There are several online resources that offer real-time air pollution maps, allowing you to check the air quality in your specific location. Websites like WAQI.info and Airly.org provide interactive maps that display the current air pollution levels for various countries and cities. These maps use laser particle sensors to measure pollutants such as PM2.5 and PM10, which are known to be particularly harmful to human health. By hovering over the flags or stations on the map, you can access historical data and detailed information about the air pollution levels in that specific area.
Air Quality Monitoring Systems
Some organisations, such as Airly, have developed smart air quality monitoring systems that provide detailed information about the air you breathe in your exact location. These systems consist of networks of air quality sensors, web platforms, and mobile applications that work together to provide real-time data and forecasts of air pollution levels. By using these tools, you can create a more comprehensive understanding of the smog problem and other air quality issues in your town or city.
Government and Environmental Agency Reports
In many countries, government agencies and environmental protection agencies play a crucial role in monitoring and reporting air quality data. They often provide official websites or portals where you can find detailed information about air pollution levels in your region. These agencies may also issue air quality alerts, advisories, and guidelines to help citizens protect their health during periods of poor air quality, such as wildfires or industrial incidents.
By utilising these resources, you can stay informed about the air pollution score in your local area. Remember to refer to the AQI values and colour-coded categories to quickly assess the potential health impacts of the air quality in your community. Taking proactive measures, such as wearing masks or reducing outdoor activities during periods of high air pollution, can help protect your health and minimise the negative effects of air pollution.
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The health effects of air pollution
The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a tool used to communicate about outdoor air quality and health. The AQI is based on measurements of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), ozone (O3), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and carbon monoxide (CO) emissions. The higher the AQI value, the greater the level of air pollution and the more serious the potential health effects.
Air pollution is the presence of contaminants in the atmosphere, such as dust, fumes, gases, mist, odour, smoke, or vapour, in quantities that can be harmful to human health. The main pathway of exposure is through the respiratory tract, which can lead to inflammation, oxidative stress, immunosuppression, and mutagenicity in cells throughout the body, impacting the lungs, heart, and brain, among other organs.
Short-term exposure to high levels of particulate matter can lead to reduced lung function, respiratory infections, and aggravated asthma. Long-term or chronic exposure to fine particulate matter increases the risk of more serious diseases with longer onsets, such as stroke, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and
Additionally, air pollution has been linked to diabetes, neurological development issues in children, and reproductive, neurological, and immune system disorders. Research has also indicated racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic disparities in the effects of air pollution, with people of colour and low-income communities experiencing greater harm and having fewer resources to mitigate the impacts.
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How to reduce air pollution
The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a tool used to communicate about outdoor air quality and health. The AQI is divided into six colour-coded categories, each corresponding to a range of index values. The higher the AQI value, the greater the level of air pollution and the greater the health concern.
- Limit vehicle usage – In California, about half of the air pollution comes from cars and trucks. Opting to walk or ride a bike when possible can help improve air quality.
- Choose efficient vehicles – When in the market for a new car, look for the most efficient, lowest-polluting vehicle or even a zero-emission electric car.
- Limit idling – Do not idle your vehicle for more than 30 seconds.
- Reduce energy consumption – Turn off electrical items that are not in use and switch to more efficient appliances and heating systems.
- Choose sustainable products – Reduce your exposure to chemicals and choose natural substitutes.
- Plant trees – Trees filter pollutants and absorb carbon dioxide, releasing oxygen into the atmosphere.
- Support clean air initiatives – Contact your local representatives to show your support for action towards cleaner air.
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Frequently asked questions
The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a system used to warn the public about dangerous levels of air pollution. It is based on measurements of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), Ozone (O3), Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2), Sulfur Dioxide (SO2), and Carbon Monoxide (CO) emissions.
The AQI is calculated using a non-linear function that varies depending on the pollutant. The score for each pollutant is also non-linear, so an AQI of 300 does not mean twice the pollution of an AQI of 150. The AQI is then divided into six colour-coded categories, each corresponding to a range of index values.
You can find real-time AQI data for your area on websites such as WAQI.info, which provides a map of air quality for more than 80 countries. You can also find AQI data on AirNow.gov, which provides interactive maps and tools to help you understand and utilise AQI data.
When the AQI is high, governmental bodies generally recommend that people reduce physical activity outdoors or avoid going outside altogether. It is recommended that sensitive groups, such as the elderly, children, and those with respiratory or cardiovascular issues, avoid outdoor exertion. It is also advised to use masks outdoors and air purifiers indoors to prevent fine particles from entering the lungs.
