Enhancing Global Air Quality: Progress, Challenges, and Regional Developments

Air quality is a critical indicator of environmental and public health, shaped by emissions, climate change, and socioeconomic factors. While advancements in policy, technology, and regulation have led to significant reductions in pollutant emissions across many regions, challenges persist—particularly in emerging and developing economies.

On the positive side, stricter environmental policies, the adoption of renewable energy, improved fuel quality, and the expansion of low-emission transportation have contributed to cleaner air in numerous countries. However, rapid urbanization, industrial growth, and increasing energy demands have led to worsening air pollution in some areas, especially in developing nations. Key pollutants such as particulate matter (PM_2.5 and PM₁₀), nitrogen oxides (NO_x), and ozone (O₃) pose severe health and environmental risks, including respiratory diseases and ecosystem disruptions. Additionally, climate change exacerbates air pollution through rising temperatures and more frequent wildfires.

Addressing global air quality challenges requires coordinated efforts, integrating emission control measures, climate-friendly technologies, and sustainable urban development. This study highlights air quality trends in different countries, with a particular focus on Mongolia and China. For instance, in Beijing, annual average PM_2.5 concentrations dropped from 84 µg/m³ in 2015 to 29 µg/m³ in 2022—a significant improvement. However, this remains far above the World Health Organization’s recommended annual limit of 5 µg/m³, underscoring the need for continued air pollution mitigation efforts.

Figure: Annual mean values of PM_2.5 concentration from 2015 to 2022 in various Chinese cities (Source: World Air Quality Report)