Brian Barton
Air pollution is a pressing global issue that claims millions of lives annually. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 99% of people worldwide live in areas where the air quality exceeds safe limits. While pollution is prevalent in middle- to low-income countries due to poor standards and industrial development, specific cities stand out as the most polluted. As of 2025, New Delhi, India, ranks as the most polluted city globally, with an unhealthy average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 169. India features prominently on the list of polluted places, with 12 of the world's 15 most polluted cities and 63 of the top 100.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Most polluted place in the world | New Delhi, India |
| Top 10 most polluted places | Byrnihat, India; Delhi, India; Karaganda, Kazakhstan; Greater Noida, Noida, Ghaziabad, Faridabad, Gurgaon, Bhiwadi, Patna, Sonipat, Muzaffarnagar (all in India) |
| Top 5 most polluted countries | Bangladesh, Pakistan, India, Bahrain, and Nepal |
| Causes of pollution | Fossil fuel use, vehicular emissions, industrial activities, agriculture, and poor waste management |
| Health impacts of pollution | Respiratory conditions, cardiovascular diseases, lung cancer, increased risk of premature birth, lower birth weight in newborns, early death |
| Environmental impacts of pollution | Acid rain, eutrophication, and climate change |
| Economic impacts of pollution | Increased medical costs and reduced productivity |
| Global air quality | 99% of the population lives in places with air quality that exceeds WHO guideline limits |
| Global deaths due to air pollution | Nearly 9 million people annually |
| India's air quality | India's cities exceed WHO guidelines for PM2.5 by 10 times; New Delhi's air quality is 13.2 times higher than the limit |
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What You'll Learn
- New Delhi, India: most polluted city in 2025
- Top 5 countries: Bangladesh, Pakistan, India, Bahrain, Nepal
- US: nearly half breathe air that got an F in State of Air 2025
- Air pollution kills millions annually, 9 million from coal, oil, gas
- India: 63 of 100 most polluted places, 12 of 15 most polluted cities (WHO)
New Delhi, India: most polluted city in 2025
New Delhi, India, has consistently been ranked as one of the most polluted cities globally, and in 2025, it continues to face critical air pollution issues. According to the 6th Annual World Air Quality Report, New Delhi was identified as the most polluted capital city in the world. This report, released by IQAir, a Swiss organisation, highlighted the severe air quality challenges in India.
The air pollution crisis in New Delhi is driven by a range of factors, including vehicle emissions, which account for a significant portion of the city's PM2.5 emissions. In addition, industrial activities, construction sites, and the burning of fossil fuels contribute significantly to the poor air quality. The problem is exacerbated during winter, when unfavourable weather conditions, paddy-straw burning, firecrackers, and other local pollution sources further deteriorate the air quality, making it hazardous for residents.
The health risks associated with New Delhi's air pollution are significant. The high levels of PM2.5 concentrations, exceeding the WHO annual guideline by a substantial margin, pose dangers to the vast population in the city and the surrounding regions. The National Capital Region, in particular, experienced a concerning surge in PM2.5 levels, with a monthly average that far exceeded safe limits. This spike in pollution levels increases the risk of respiratory issues, cardiovascular problems, and other adverse health effects for the large population in and around New Delhi.
To address the critical air pollution situation in New Delhi, urgent actions are necessary. Experts and organisations have suggested various measures, including a shift towards sustainable transport, the phasing out of diesel, gas, and petrol cars, and the introduction of affordable, renewable-energy-powered public transportation options. Additionally, strict enforcement of emission laws, providing incentives for cleaner energy sources, and expanding public transport with appropriate infrastructure for pedestrians and cyclists are crucial steps. By implementing these measures, New Delhi can work towards improving air quality and reducing the health risks associated with pollution.
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Top 5 countries: Bangladesh, Pakistan, India, Bahrain, Nepal
Bangladesh, Pakistan, India, Bahrain, and Nepal are among the countries with the highest levels of pollution.
Bangladesh, with a population of over 160 million people, faces significant environmental challenges. Dhaka, the capital city, often records high levels of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), which are harmful pollutants that contribute to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, stroke, and lung cancer. The State of Global Air report in 2021 estimated that at least 236,000 people died due to air pollution in Bangladesh. The brick kiln industry, which often lacks proper emission controls, and the transportation sector, with its aging fleet of vehicles, are major contributors to air pollution in the country. Additionally, Bangladesh struggles with water pollution, as untreated domestic sewage and industrial effluent are discharged into rivers and canals, leading to high levels of organic pollution and low dissolved oxygen levels. Climate change is expected to exacerbate these issues, impacting the Dhaka River System's water quality.
Pakistan, with a population of over 212 million people, is another country with severe pollution levels. In 2019, Pakistan had a PM2.5 reading of 65.81 μg/m³, placing it in the ''unhealthy' category and ranking it as the second most polluted country in the world that year. Gujranwala and Faisalabad, two of Pakistan's major cities, ranked third and fourth in the list of most polluted cities globally. Vehicle emissions, factory pollution, and seasonal practices like stubble burning contribute to the country's poor air quality. Pakistan's geographical location and the presence of numerous outdated vehicles on the road also play a role in its high pollution levels.
India is one of the world's most polluted countries, with 17 of its cities among the 30 cities with the worst air pollution globally. New Delhi, the capital, has the poorest air quality among capital cities, with particulate matter (PM2.5) concentrations nearly ten times higher than World Health Organization guidelines. Thermal power plants, vehicle emissions, industrial emissions, crop residue burning, and the use of wood and dirty fuels for cooking and heating are the main causes of India's air pollution. The Indian government has implemented initiatives like the National Clean Air Program to address this issue, aiming to reduce particulate matter pollution.
Bahrain, a small island country in the Persian Gulf, faces environmental challenges due to its rapid urbanization and industrialization. While specific pollution rankings for Bahrain were not readily available, the country experiences air, water, and marine pollution.
Nepal is confronted with significant air pollution, primarily in the Kathmandu Valley and the Terai regions. Transboundary airflows carry pollutants across borders, and Nepal's bowl-shaped valley surrounded by mountains exacerbates the issue. Air pollution is the leading cause of death and disability in Nepal, reducing life expectancy and causing approximately 26,000 premature deaths annually. The World Bank has emphasized the need for multi-sectoral solutions, and the Nepali government has committed to improving air quality through stricter industrial emission standards and the promotion of electric transport.
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US: nearly half breathe air that got an F in State of Air 2025
Air pollution is a pressing global issue that poses significant risks to public health and the environment. While air pollution is prevalent worldwide, the United States faces substantial challenges in ensuring clean air for its citizens. According to the "State of Air 2025" report, nearly half of the US population breathes air that received a failing grade. This means that approximately 156 million people in the US live in counties where the air quality failed to meet acceptable standards, with more than 42 million people residing in areas that received an F for all three air pollution measures.
The primary air pollutants of concern are particulate matter, ozone, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, and lead. These contaminants have far-reaching health consequences, including respiratory issues, cardiovascular diseases, and lung cancer. Particle pollution, for instance, can infiltrate the body's natural defences due to its minuscule size, increasing the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other adverse health effects. Ozone, on the other hand, irritates the lungs, causing inflammation similar to a sunburn, and is linked to an increased risk of premature birth and lower birth weight in newborns.
Climate change further exacerbates the problem of air pollution, as it increases the frequency and intensity of wildfires, which release large amounts of smoke and particulate matter into the atmosphere. Wildfire smoke spreads dangerous particle pollution over extensive areas, posing risks to those living or working nearby and to individuals with higher exposure to outdoor air, such as those working or exercising outside. Children, older adults, and people with lung diseases like asthma and COPD are especially vulnerable to the detrimental effects of air pollution.
To address air pollution and safeguard public health, policymakers at all levels of government must take proactive measures. The Clean Air Act has played a pivotal role in driving pollution reduction over the past five decades. Additionally, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is critical in the fight against air pollution. EPA staff members monitor air pollution levels, develop and enforce rules to mitigate pollution, and ensure compliance with air quality standards. However, the EPA currently faces significant challenges due to substantial staffing and funding cuts, threatening its ability to continue its lifesaving work effectively.
While the "State of Air 2025" report highlights the magnitude of the problem, it also underscores the urgent need for action. Improving air quality requires concerted efforts from policymakers, industries, and communities alike. Implementing sustainable practices, transitioning to cleaner technologies, and investing in renewable energy sources are crucial steps toward reducing air pollution and protecting the health and well-being of those living in the United States and worldwide.
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Air pollution kills millions annually, 9 million from coal, oil, gas
Air pollution is a pressing global issue, with fine particle pollution from burning fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and gas taking a significant toll on human health. Research reveals that air pollution kills millions annually, with an estimated range of 3 to 9 million premature deaths worldwide. A comprehensive study supported by various organizations, including the University of Birmingham and the US Environmental Protection Agency, found that fossil fuel emissions alone contribute to approximately 8.7 million deaths each year. This figure represents a significant increase from previous estimates of 4.2 million deaths, calculated by the Global Burden of Disease Study in 2015, which considered fine particulate pollution from all sources.
The health impacts of air pollution are far-reaching and detrimental. Particle pollution, particularly PM2.5 (particles smaller than 2.5 micrometers), can infiltrate the lungs and lead to serious respiratory conditions, including asthma and lung cancer. It is also associated with coronary heart disease, strokes, and early death. The World Health Organization (WHO) has documented PM2.5 concentrations in almost 5,390 towns and cities across 63 countries, providing valuable insights into outdoor air pollution. However, it is worth noting that indoor air pollution also contributes significantly to the overall death toll.
The burning of fossil fuels, such as coal, gasoline, and diesel, is a major contributor to air pollution and its deadly consequences. Fine particulate matter, including soot, is produced by these activities, aggravating respiratory issues and increasing the risk of lung cancer. China and India bear the brunt of this pollution, with nearly five million premature deaths combined. Other severely affected regions include western Europe, Southeast Asia, and parts of the United States, particularly the Northeast and Midwest.
Climate change further exacerbates the problem by increasing the risk of wildfires, which release dangerous particle pollution into the atmosphere. This complex issue demands urgent attention from policymakers and leaders worldwide. Transitioning to alternative energy sources and implementing measures to reduce emissions are crucial steps in mitigating the devastating impact of air pollution on global health. The Clean Air Act in the United States, for example, has successfully driven pollution reduction for over 50 years, showcasing the effectiveness of legislative action in improving air quality.
While the exact number of deaths attributed to air pollution may vary due to the early stage of research in this field, the consensus among studies is clear: air pollution claims the lives of millions annually. This underscores the urgency of addressing the issue and implementing measures to improve air quality, protect vulnerable populations, and mitigate the health risks associated with air pollution, especially in highly polluted regions.
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India: 63 of 100 most polluted places, 12 of 15 most polluted cities (WHO)
India is one of the most polluted countries in the world, with 63 of the 100 most polluted places and 12 of the 15 most polluted cities, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). New Delhi, India's capital, ranks as the most polluted city in the world in 2025, with an average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 169, falling into the "unhealthy" category. Other Indian cities among the most polluted include Greater Noida, Noida, Ghaziabad, Faridabad, Gurgaon, Bhiwadi, Patna, Sonipat, and Muzaffarnagar.
The main causes of India's poor air quality are vehicular emissions, industrial activities, the burning of fossil fuels for cooking, diesel generators, agricultural practices, and waste burning. These sources of pollution have led to India's cities exceeding WHO guidelines for PM2.5 particulate matter in the atmosphere by ten times. PM2.5 particles are particularly harmful as they are small enough to enter the lungs and bloodstream, causing severe health issues such as respiratory conditions, heart disease, and lung cancer.
India's air pollution has devastating consequences for public health, with an estimated 1 million deaths attributed to air pollution each year in the country, according to The Lancet. Additionally, the economic impacts are significant, resulting in increased medical costs and reduced productivity. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, India has implemented stringent measures in recent years to address the pollution crisis. These include reducing coal consumption, lowering emissions from transportation, and relocating polluting heavy industries.
Despite some improvements in air quality in certain Indian cities, the country still faces significant challenges in providing clean air to its citizens. India's pledge to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060 underscores its commitment to tackling pollution and climate change. However, this ambitious goal will require substantial efforts to transition away from coal and further develop renewable energy sources.
The country's efforts to combat air pollution are vital not only for the health and well-being of its citizens but also for contributing to global solutions to environmental issues. India's success in reducing pollution and embracing sustainable practices will have far-reaching benefits for the planet and set a precedent for other nations facing similar challenges.
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Frequently asked questions
New Delhi, India, ranks as the most polluted city in 2025 with an average AQI of 169, falling in the 'Unhealthy' category.
The top 5 most polluted countries are Bangladesh, Pakistan, India, Bahrain and Nepal.
Major causes of pollution include fossil fuel use, vehicular emissions, industrial activities, agriculture, and poor waste management.
Air pollution has severe impacts on human health, including respiratory conditions, cardiovascular diseases, and lung cancer. It also increases the risk of premature birth and lower birth weight in newborns.
Efforts like the Paris Agreement and the Clean Air Act aim to combat pollution. Sustainable practices, cleaner technologies, and stringent measures to reduce coal consumption and emissions are crucial for improving air quality.
