7 Cities With the Cleanest Air in the World: Inspiration for a Healthier Future

Air pollution is a serious global problem, responsible for an estimated 4.2 million premature deaths worldwide in 2019. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that almost 99% of the global population lives in areas with air quality that fails to meet health standards. To combat this issue, the WHO encourages governments to prioritize policies that improve industrial practices, energy generation, transportation systems, city planning, electricity production, waste management, agricultural practices, and healthcare services.

Seven Cities Leading the Way

While many parts of the world struggle with air pollution, some cities stand out for their clean air. Here are seven cities with the cleanest air in the world, according to airly.org, based on average PM2.5 levels measured over 12 months in 2022:

1. Zurich, Switzerland (0.51 micrograms per cubic meter)

Zurich is known for its efficient public transportation system, reducing reliance on personal vehicles and lowering emissions. The city also boasts a strong focus on clean energy and low-emission transportation, making it a champion of sustainable living.

2. Reykjavik, Iceland (1.9 micrograms per cubic meter)

Reykjavik harnesses geothermal energy extensively, reducing its dependence on fossil fuels. The city's geographical location and strong ocean winds help disperse any potential pollutants.

3. Launceston, Australia (3.68 micrograms per cubic meter)

Launceston's abundance of green spaces acts as natural filters, keeping air pollution levels low. The city maintains high standards for industry and transportation, while also diligently monitoring open burning activities.

4. Honolulu, Hawaii (4.04 micrograms per cubic meter)

Honolulu's location in the middle of the Pacific Ocean means it's constantly exposed to ocean winds that help clear pollutants from the air. The city also benefits from a strong sense of environmental awareness among its residents.

5. Bergen, Norway (4.39 micrograms per cubic meter)

Bergen enjoys clean air thanks to its surrounding mountains, which act as natural barriers against pollution. The city's efficient, low-emission public transportation system also reduces the number of cars on the road.

6. Wollongong, Australia (4.51 micrograms per cubic meter)

Wollongong's proximity to the Pacific Ocean allows for strong ocean winds that cleanse the air. The city has implemented strict policies to limit industrial emissions, contributing to cleaner air.

7. Trondheim, Norway (4.77 micrograms per cubic meter)

Trondheim focuses on sustainable energy, with a significant portion of its energy supply coming from renewable sources like hydropower. The city also embraces green policies like low-emission transportation and the development of green spaces.

What are the key factors contributing to Zurich's clean air?

Zurich has an efficient public transportation system, which reduces reliance on personal vehicles and lowers emissions. The city also boasts a strong focus on clean energy and low-emission transportation, making it a champion of sustainable living.

How does Reykjavik's geographical location and energy sources contribute to its clean air?

Reykjavik harnesses geothermal energy extensively, reducing its dependence on fossil fuels. The city's geographical location and strong ocean winds help disperse any potential pollutants.

What role does Launceston's green spaces and industrial practices play in maintaining clean air?

Launceston's abundance of green spaces acts as natural filters, keeping air pollution levels low. The city maintains high standards for industry and transportation, while also diligently monitoring open burning activities.

How do Honolulu's location and residents' awareness contribute to its clean air?

Honolulu's location in the middle of the Pacific Ocean means it's constantly exposed to ocean winds that help clear pollutants from the air. The city also benefits from a strong sense of environmental awareness among its residents.

What are the key elements contributing to Bergen's clean air, beyond its geographical features?

Bergen enjoys clean air thanks to its surrounding mountains, which act as natural barriers against pollution. The city's efficient, low-emission public transportation system also reduces the number of cars on the road.

How does Trondheim's focus on sustainable energy and green policies contribute to its clean air?

Trondheim focuses on sustainable energy, with a significant portion of its energy supply coming from renewable sources like hydropower. The city also embraces green policies like low-emission transportation and the development of green spaces.

Inspiration for a Healthier Future

These cities demonstrate that clean air is achievable through thoughtful planning, sustainable practices, and community engagement. As the world grapples with the serious effects of air pollution, these examples offer hope and inspiration for creating a healthier future for all.