A new report reveals that all but one of the 100 cities with the worst air pollution in 2023 were located in Asia, according to a study by IQAir, CNN reports.
India accounted for the majority, with 83 cities exceeding the World Health Organization’s air quality guidelines by over ten times. The study focused on fine particulate matter (PM2.5), primarily from fossil fuel combustion and natural events like dust storms and wildfires, which pose severe health risks such as respiratory illnesses and cognitive impairment.
While North America experienced heightened pollution due to wildfires, Asia saw pollution levels rebound, with China experiencing a resurgence in smog after years of improvement. South Asia, notably India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh face the highest pollution levels, with little improvement expected without major changes in energy and agricultural practices.
