What is the Most Polluted City in the World?

The most polluted city in the world is Linfin, China. The major cause of the pollution is coal and polluted air particulates. Particle pollution is made up of the dirty particulates in the air, such as what you see in car exhaust. The air is so dirty in Linfin that residents can't hang laundry out to dry because it will turn black.

More Dirty Air Facts:

• Of the top 20 most polluted cities in the world, 16 are Chinese.


• The most polluted city in the US, in terms of particle pollution, is Phoenix, Arizona, followed by Bakersfield and Los Angeles, California.


• In the US, 175 million people, about half of the US population, live in areas where pollution makes the air dangerous to breathe.


• The US city with the cleanest air in terms of particle pollution is Cheyenne, Wyoming, followed by Santa Fe-Espanola, New Mexico and Honolulu, Hawaii.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is currently the most polluted city in the world?

As of recent data, the most polluted city in the world often fluctuates due to various factors such as industrial activities, burning of fossil fuels, and weather conditions. Cities in India, Pakistan, and China frequently top the list. For instance, according to IQAir's 2020 World Air Quality Report, Hotan in China was identified as the most polluted city based on PM2.5 concentration.

How is pollution measured to determine the most polluted city?

Pollution is typically measured using the concentration of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), which are tiny particles in the air that reduce visibility and cause the air to appear hazy when levels are elevated. The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a standardized indicator that combines various pollutant concentrations, including ozone, particulate matter, and sulfur dioxide, to provide a clear measure of air quality.

What are the health impacts of living in a highly polluted city?

Living in a highly polluted city can lead to a multitude of health issues. Short-term effects include irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, while long-term exposure can result in respiratory diseases, heart disease, and lung cancer. The World Health Organization has reported that air pollution causes about 7 million premature deaths worldwide annually, highlighting its severe impact on health.

What causes high pollution levels in cities?

High pollution levels in cities are often caused by a combination of factors including vehicle emissions, industrial discharges, heating and power generation, and construction activities. Additionally, natural events like dust storms and wildfires can exacerbate pollution levels. Rapid urbanization and lack of stringent environmental regulations also contribute to the problem.

Are there any success stories of cities reducing their pollution levels significantly?

Yes, there are several success stories. For example, Mexico City once held the title of the world's most polluted city but has seen significant improvements through policies like vehicle restrictions, cleaner fuel standards, and expanding public transportation. Similarly, Beijing has made strides by shutting down coal-fired power plants and promoting electric vehicles, significantly improving its air quality over the past decade.

What can individuals do to help reduce pollution in their cities?

Individuals can contribute to reducing pollution by using public transportation, carpooling, or using electric vehicles to decrease vehicle emissions. Reducing energy consumption at home, recycling, and supporting local policies for cleaner air are also effective. Planting trees and participating in community clean-up efforts can further aid in improving the air quality of one's city.