Finding Clean Air: The Least Polluted Places

Air pollution is a significant global health problem, causing millions of premature deaths annually. It is caused by both natural and manmade sources, with the latter being the primary contributor in cities. Manmade sources include combustion from transportation and industrial businesses, biomass burning, and agricultural activities. Natural sources include volcanic activity, wildfires, and dust or sandstorms. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), only seven countries in the world have safe air to breathe, three of which are in Europe. These seven countries are Australia, Estonia, Finland, Grenada, Iceland, Mauritius, and New Zealand.

The seven countries with the least air pollution

Air pollution is a serious health threat, triggering asthma attacks, harming lung development in children, and even causing early death. According to the World Health Organization, over 99% of people worldwide breathe unsafe air with high levels of air pollution. Here are the seven countries with the least air pollution:

• Australia: Australia topped the list as the least polluted country in the world, with 6 cities in the top 25 least polluted cities.
• Nordic countries: Finland, Sweden, Norway, and Iceland also dominated the rankings with some of the cleanest air in the world.
• Switzerland: Zurich, Switzerland, ranked as the least polluted city in the world.
• United States: Along with Australia, the United States was the only other country with at least 3 cities in the top 25 least polluted.
• Canada: Canada is also known for its relatively low air pollution levels and has implemented various measures to improve air quality.
• New Zealand: New Zealand has a reputation for its clean and green image, with strict environmental regulations contributing to lower air pollution levels.
• Estonia: Estonia has made significant progress in reducing air pollution, with initiatives focused on renewable energy and sustainable practices.

It is worth noting that while these countries have relatively lower air pollution levels, the presence of any air pollution can still have an impact on health. Even small amounts of pollution can affect people's well-being, and it is important for individuals to stay informed about air quality forecasts and take necessary precautions to protect their health.

The impact of transport on air pollution

Air pollution is a critical global health issue, causing over 4.5 million premature deaths in 2019, according to The Lancet. It affects nearly every organ in the body and can trigger asthma attacks, harm lung development, and increase the risk of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, cancer, and adverse birth outcomes. Transport is a significant contributor to this problem, especially in urban areas with high traffic density.

The transport sector is responsible for a large proportion of air pollution, with road transport being one of the biggest polluters. Private cars, small passenger vehicles, and heavy-duty vehicles like lorries and freight trucks emit harmful substances such as carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter (PM). The combustion of jet fuel in the aviation sector also releases CO2, NOx, and water vapour. Shipping contributes to air pollution, especially in port cities, as large ships burn heavy fuel oil, producing sulfur oxides (SOx), NOx, and fine particulate matter.

The impact of transport on air quality is particularly noticeable in cities, where nearly half of the US population breathes air that has received an F grade in the "State of Air" report for particle and ozone pollution. In Europe, the situation is similarly dire, with 97% of the population exposed to dangerous levels of toxic air pollution. The dominance of cars in urban spaces is a central issue, and cities have introduced low-emission zones (LEZs), ultra-low emission zones (ULEZs), and zero-emission zones (ZEZs) to restrict access to highly polluting vehicles. These measures have helped bring down pollution levels and improved overall air quality in these areas.

Transitioning to electric vehicles and encouraging shared mobility, walking, and cycling are vital steps to mitigate the impact of transport on air pollution. Urban planning that prioritises safe cycling and pedestrian infrastructure can promote physical activity, reduce emissions, and improve health outcomes. Additionally, reducing traffic volumes in neighbourhoods can have economic and social benefits, such as higher property values and increased social interaction.

To address the global impact of transport on air pollution, international organisations like the International Maritime Organization (IMO) have introduced regulations to limit sulfur emissions from shipping. These regulations, along with new technologies like LNG-powered ships, are crucial steps towards reducing transport-related air pollution and improving public health and environmental outcomes worldwide.

Natural sources of air pollution

Wildfires

Wildfires are a natural source of air pollution, and their frequency is increased by climate change. The smoke released during wildfires spreads dangerous particle pollution, which can cause serious health problems. These particles are small enough to be inhaled deeply into the lung tissue, leading to respiratory issues and other health risks.

Volcanic Activity

Volcanoes are another natural source of air pollution. Volcanic eruptions release various gases and particles into the atmosphere, including sulfur dioxide, ash, and volcanic glass. These emissions can have both local and global impacts on air quality, depending on the size and intensity of the eruption.

Wind-Blown Dust

Wind-blown dust is a natural source of air pollution that can be transported over long distances. These fine particles can be carried by the wind and contribute to reduced air quality in downwind areas.

Biogenic Emissions

Certain biological processes in nature, such as emissions from specific plants and trees, can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the atmosphere. These VOCs can contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone, which is a major component of smog.

While natural sources of air pollution exist, it is important to recognize that human-generated sources, such as industrial activities, vehicle emissions, and power generation, often play a more significant role in air pollution on a global scale. The interaction between natural and anthropogenic sources of air pollution can lead to complex atmospheric chemical reactions, influencing the air quality we experience.

The health risks of air pollution

Air pollution is a serious health threat, and is responsible for more than 10% of all deaths worldwide (nearly 4.5 million premature deaths in 2019), according to The Lancet. It can affect almost every organ in the body and nearly every system in the body. The presence of contaminants in the atmosphere, such as dust, fumes, gas, mist, odour, smoke or vapour, in quantities and durations that can be injurious to human health, defines air pollution. The main pathway of exposure from air pollution is through the respiratory tract.

Breathing in these pollutants leads to inflammation, oxidative stress, immunosuppression, and mutagenicity in cells throughout our body, impacting the lungs, heart, and brain, among other organs, and ultimately leading to disease. Fine particulate matter can be especially harmful, as these very small particles can penetrate deep into the lungs, enter the bloodstream, and travel to organs, causing systemic damage to tissues and cells. This can lead to reduced lung function, respiratory infections, and aggravated asthma from short-term exposure. Long-term exposure can increase the risk of noncommunicable diseases, such as stroke, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and cancer.

Certain groups are more vulnerable to the health impacts of air pollution. These include individuals who are pregnant, children, older adults, and people living with chronic conditions, especially heart and lung disease. People of colour are also more likely to be exposed to air pollution and to suffer harm to their health from it. Low-income communities are more likely to live in close proximity to sources of pollution and have fewer resources to relocate. Psychosocial stressors, such as poverty, racial/ethnic discrimination, and residency status, can amplify the harmful effects of air pollution.

Research has also found links between air pollution and adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as low birth weight, small for gestational age, and hypertensive disorders, which are a leading cause of pre-term birth, low birth weight, and maternal and fetal illness and death. Air pollution can also affect lung development and is implicated in the development of respiratory diseases such as emphysema, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Children who play several outdoor sports, live in high-ozone communities, or live near busy roads have an increased risk of developing asthma.

In summary, air pollution poses serious health risks, including respiratory issues, cardiovascular problems, adverse pregnancy outcomes, and an increased risk of various types of cancer. Certain populations, including people of colour, low-income communities, pregnant individuals, children, and older adults, are more vulnerable to the health impacts of air pollution.

Air quality reports as calls to action

Air pollution is a critical global issue that poses a significant threat to human health and the environment. It is responsible for millions of premature deaths annually, with vulnerable populations such as children, older adults, and people with respiratory conditions being at higher risk. As air pollution knows no borders, addressing this challenge requires a collective effort from various stakeholders.

Call for Action from Health Professionals and Advocates

Health professionals, patients' groups, civil society organizations, and individuals have united to demand urgent action from world leaders and decision-makers. They recognize air pollution as a major health and environmental crisis, causing respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, and contributing to climate change. This call for action, supported by the World Health Organization (WHO), underscores the need for immediate and ambitious steps to reduce emissions, enforce stricter air quality standards, and transition to cleaner energy sources.

Role of Governments and Policy Makers

National governments and policymakers play a pivotal role in addressing air pollution. They must redirect subsidies away from fossil fuel consumption and towards clean air initiatives. This includes enforcing stricter pollution limits, transitioning from coal-fired power to renewable energy, expanding sustainable transport, establishing low-emission zones, and promoting clean cooking solutions. Governments should also increase funding for clean air initiatives, strengthen monitoring and surveillance, and collaborate with health and non-health organizations to support comprehensive action.

Responsibilities of Businesses and the Private Sector

Businesses and the private sector are integral to the fight against air pollution. They should recognize the economic benefits of clean air, including reduced health costs and increased productivity. By investing in clean air solutions, monitoring and reporting air pollution along their value chains, and championing action, businesses can demonstrate their commitment to sustainability. Climate finance providers should also include air quality considerations in their funding decisions, such as supporting wildfire management and reducing black carbon deposition.

Empowering Researchers and Think Tanks

Researchers play a crucial role in advocating for clean air. They can form coalitions to produce biennial reports on the economic case for clean air action, highlighting the costs and benefits of interventions. Global and regional think tanks can showcase success stories of cities, regions, and countries that have successfully reduced air pollution, providing tangible examples for others to follow. Additionally, insurance firms can incorporate air pollution-related health costs into their risk assessments, promoting equitable access to preventative and curative health interventions.

Individual Actions and Community Efforts

While systemic change is necessary, individuals can also play a part in improving air quality. Checking air quality forecasts and avoiding outdoor activities during periods of high pollution can help protect personal health. Community-level initiatives can advocate for cleaner air, support vulnerable populations, and promote sustainable practices. Education and awareness campaigns can empower individuals to make informed choices and engage in collective actions that contribute to reducing air pollution.

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