2024 World Air Quality Report

Bangladesh Ranks Among the Most Polluted Countries in 2024; Air Quality Crisis Worsens

Bangladesh has once again been ranked as one of the most polluted countries in the world, according to the 2024 World Air Quality Report released by the Swiss-based air quality monitoring organization IQAir. The report, which analyzes PM2.5 air pollution data from 8,954 locations across 138 countries, reveals that Bangladesh recorded an alarming average PM2.5 concentration of 78.0 µg/m³ in 2024—15 times higher than the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommended limit of 5 µg/m³.

Bangladesh: The Second Most Polluted Country

Bangladesh ranks second globally in air pollution, just behind Chad (91.8 µg/m³) and ahead of Pakistan (73.7 µg/m³). Dhaka, the capital, recorded an annual PM2.5 concentration of 78.0 µg/m³, making it the third most polluted capital city worldwide. This level of air pollution poses serious risks to public health, particularly for children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions.

The report highlights that only 17% of global cities meet the WHO air quality standard, indicating that air pollution remains a worldwide crisis.

The Deadly Impact of PM2.5 Pollution

PM2.5—particulate matter with a diameter of less than 2.5 microns—is one of the most dangerous air pollutants. These microscopic particles penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream, leading to respiratory diseases, heart attacks, strokes, and even cognitive impairments in children.

• Health Impact in Bangladesh
  According to WHO estimates, air pollution is a major cause of premature deaths in Bangladesh. Exposure to high levels of PM2.5 has been linked to:
  • Increased cases of asthma and bronchitis.
  • Higher risk of lung cancer and heart disease.
  • Cognitive impairments in children, including reduced IQ levels and developmental delays.

Sources of Air Pollution in Bangladesh

The 2024 World Air Quality Report attributes Bangladesh’s severe air pollution to a combination of factors:

• Brick Kilns: These contribute up to 40% of Dhaka’s PM2.5 emissions, with thousands of outdated kilns continuing to operate without effective emission control.
• Vehicular Emissions: The rapidly growing number of vehicles in major cities, particularly Dhaka, releases high amounts of carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and PM2.5.
• Construction Dust: Unregulated urban development and road construction contribute to significant dust pollution, especially during the dry season.
• Industrial Pollution: Factories located in and around major cities continue to emit harmful pollutants due to lax enforcement of environmental regulations.
• Crop and Waste Burning: Seasonal agricultural practices, including stubble burning, worsen air pollution levels during the winter months.

Global and Regional Comparisons

Bangladesh’s air pollution crisis mirrors that of other South Asian nations. India (50.6 µg/m³) and Pakistan (73.7 µg/m³) also rank among the top five most polluted countries. However, Bangladesh’s pollution levels remain among the highest in the world.

By contrast, Australia, New Zealand, and parts of the Caribbean have some of the world’s cleanest air, with PM2.5 levels below the WHO threshold.

Government Response and Challenges

Despite growing public concern, Bangladesh’s efforts to control air pollution remain insufficient. Although some initiatives have been launched, such as:

• The National Clean Air Program (NCAP) to regulate emissions from industries and vehicles.
• Introduction of compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles to reduce pollution from petrol and diesel.
• Legal actions against illegal brick kilns and pollution-heavy industries.

However, poor enforcement and lack of coordination continue to hinder meaningful improvements. Environmental activists emphasize that stronger policies, stricter regulations, and international cooperation are required to combat this crisis.

Urgent Need for Action

The IQAir report calls for immediate action to reduce air pollution in Bangladesh:

1. Stronger enforcement of emission standards for brick kilns and industries.
2. Public transportation improvements to reduce dependence on polluting vehicles.
3. Increased investment in air quality monitoring and early warning systems.
4. Greater awareness and policy measures to prevent crop and waste burning.
5. Stricter urban planning to reduce dust and particulate emissions from construction.

With air pollution being the second leading risk factor for death worldwide, experts stress that urgent policy changes are needed to protect future generations.

Bangladesh’s air pollution crisis remains a major public health emergency, affecting millions. The latest IQAir report serves as a wake-up call for policymakers to take decisive action and implement long-term solutions to ensure cleaner air for its citizens.