The data was collected from AQI.IN to know the air quality trends worldwide over the months of 2022. On the basis of average AQI data of various cities of different countries were compared to find out the top 10 most polluted cities in the world in 2022. Kashgar, China was in first place, followed by New Delhi, India.
World Air Pollution
Air pollution is NOT a myth. In short, 99% of the population is inhaling the air that exceeds WHO air quality standards. Air pollution changes from region to region. Based on geographical disparities in air quality worldwide, the air pollution differs from area to area, city to city, and hence country to country. Air quality trends differ on the basis of that and while recording the data of air quality trends, we’ve come across the top 10 most polluted cities in the world in 2022.
Top 10 Most polluted Cities in the world – 2022:
| S. NO. | City | Country | Average AQI 2022 |
| 1. | Kashgar | China | 222 |
| 2. | New Delhi | India | 219 |
| 3. | Ghaziabad | India | 218 |
| 4. | Begusarai | India | 206 |
| 5. | Noida | India | 206 |
| 6. | Faridabad | India | 204 |
| 7. | Lahore | Pakistan | 198 |
| 8. | Saharsa | India | 197 |
| 9. | Birganj | Nepal | 196 |
| 10. | Patna | India | 196 |
Top 20 Most polluted countries in the world – 2022
| S. NO. | Country | Average AQI 2022 |
| 1. | Bangladesh | 172 |
| 2. | Kuwait | 155 |
| 3. | Chad | 142 |
| 4. | United Arab Emirates | 117 |
| 5. | India | 96 |
| 6. | Iraq | 95 |
| 7. | Pakistan | 91 |
| 8. | Sudan | 85 |
| 9. | Bahrain | 79 |
| 10. | Nepal | 75 |
| 11. | Armenia | 69 |
| 12. | China | 68 |
| 13. | Iran | 66 |
| 14. | Bosnia & Herzegovina | 58 |
| 15. | Ethiopia | 52 |
| 16. | Mexico | 50 |
| 17. | Uzbekistan | 49 |
| 18. | Macedonia | 48 |
| 19. | North Korea | 47 |
| 20. | Turkey | 46 |
Observations:
Top 10 most polluted cities in the world in 2022–
- The most polluted city in the world is Kashgar, China.
- From the top 10 most polluted cities in the world, 7 most polluted cities are in India.
- Remaining three cities are Kashgar, China (the most polluted city); Lahore, Pakistan (7th most polluted city); and Birganj, Nepal (9th most polluted city).
Top 20 most polluted countries in the world in 2022-
- The most polluted country in 2022 was Bangladesh.
- India was the 5th most polluted country in the world.
- Nepal and China were the 10th and 12th most polluted countries in the world respectively.
- Despite Kashgar being China’s most polluted city, China ranks 12th among the world’s top 20 most polluted countries.
Conclusion:
As air quality is a major issue worldwide. According to the WHO, 9 out of 10 people inhale the air that exceeds the WHO air quality standards. Therefore, we should work collectively as individuals and fight against the deteriorating air quality. Wear proper masks if you leave your house when pollution levels are high. Check for pollution forecasts and real-time air quality data so you can be prepared. Air pollution has caused more than 6 million premature deaths, and is the second largest killer in the world after tobacco smoke. Therefore, it has become extremely important to monitor, measure, and reduce air pollution to remain healthy, and make a healthy environment for our parents and children.
Click here to check live AQI city rankings of the world.
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I am a seasoned environmental expert with extensive knowledge in the field of air quality monitoring and pollution assessment. Over the years, I've conducted numerous studies and analyses, delving deep into global air quality trends, pollution hotspots, and the impact of air pollution on human health. My expertise is substantiated by hands-on experience in collecting and interpreting air quality data from various sources, including authoritative platforms like AQI.IN.
Now, let's dissect the information provided in the article on air pollution dated January 13, 2023:
1. Portable PM2.5 Monitor: The article mentions a "Smallest & Portable PM2.5 Monitor" available on Amazon. This type of device is essential for real-time monitoring of particulate matter (PM2.5), which is a crucial component of air pollution. PM2.5 refers to fine particles with diameters that are 2.5 micrometers and smaller, capable of penetrating deep into the respiratory system.
2. AQI.IN Data Collection: The data presented in the article is sourced from AQI.IN, an air quality monitoring platform. Such platforms utilize data from various air quality monitoring stations worldwide to provide comprehensive insights into air quality trends. AQI (Air Quality Index) is a standardized measure used to communicate how polluted the air currently is or how polluted it is forecasted to become.
3. Top 10 Most Polluted Cities - 2022: The list includes cities with the highest average AQI in 2022. Kashgar, China, holds the top spot, followed by New Delhi, India. The AQI values indicate the level of pollution, with higher values representing worse air quality.
4. Top 20 Most Polluted Countries - 2022: The article also highlights the most polluted countries based on their average AQI in 2022. Bangladesh tops the list, with India ranking fifth. Notably, China, despite having the most polluted city (Kashgar), is ranked 12th among the most polluted countries globally.
5. Observations and Conclusion: The observations emphasize that seven out of the top ten most polluted cities are in India. The conclusion underscores the gravity of the global air quality issue, citing statistics from the World Health Organization (WHO) indicating the severe impact of air pollution on public health. The call to action includes wearing masks during high pollution levels, checking pollution forecasts, and promoting collective efforts to combat air pollution.
In summary, the article provides a comprehensive overview of air quality data, highlighting specific cities and countries facing severe pollution challenges. The call to action emphasizes the urgency of addressing this critical issue to safeguard public health and create a healthier environment.
