Pollution remains a major danger to Earth and its inhabitants. The effects of human activities on the environment can be seen everywhere in the polluted countries from the contamination of air and water to the difficulties in disposing of trash.
Air pollution is a major issue all around the world. While some nations are setting an example for the world to follow, many others are significantly worse off in terms of pollution.
Note that the most polluted countries are not necessarily the ones responsible for the most pollution in the globe. Some of the world’s least polluted countries are contributing to air pollution in more populous regions.This article seeks to shed light on the most and least polluted countries in the world.
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The 4 most polluted countries in the world
The following are the 4 most polluted countries according to the researchers:
1. Bangladesh
Numerous environmental problems plague Bangladesh. With a value of 76.9 g/m3 (only slightly lower than the 77.1 g/m3 measured in 2020 and the 83.3 g/m3 measured in 2019), it is among the most polluted countries.
Severe water and air pollution is caused by industrial pollutants, improper waste management, and a lack of sanitary services.
Dhaka, the nation’s capital, has dangerously high levels of air pollution, which has made breathing difficult for many locals. Rivers like the Buriganga that are polluted are dangerous to human health and aquatic life.
2. Chad
The central African republic of Chad cannot access the ocean. Major environmental threats, such as pollution, exist there. With 75.9 g/m3, Chad ranks as the world’s second-most polluted nation. Desertification, Deforestation, and the contamination of water supplies are the most significant contributors to pollution in the country.
Large swaths of Chad’s forests have been cut down in recent years to make way for farmland and firewood. This has raised greenhouse gas emissions, contributed to soil erosion, and lowered biodiversity.
3. Pakistan
The land, water, and air of Pakistan are all severely impacted by the country’s 66.8 g/m3 of pollution. Pollution in Pakistan is largely caused by four things: factories, cars, farms, and improper garbage disposal.
Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi are only some of the major cities in Pakistan where air pollution is a serious issue. Industrial emissions, Vehicle emissions, and the combustion of fossil fuels are the primary causes of air pollution.
The outcome is poor air quality, which can have severe effects on the health of the population living in these cities.
4. India
India’s 58.1 g/m3 of air pollution puts it near the top of the list of dirty nations. Extreme pollution is a result of many factors, including rapid industrialisation, widespread urbanization, and a large population.
Vehicle emissions, industrial operations, and open burning are the primary contributors to air pollution, which is a major public health problem. The respiratory health of millions of people is negatively impacted by the consistently dangerous levels of air pollution in major cities like Delhi.
Inadequate sanitation facilities, industrial waste, and agricultural runoff all contribute significantly to water contamination.
The 4 least polluted countries in the world
The world’s least polluted countries are all territories, and, not surprisingly, they’re all islands with little populations. The following are examples of them.
1. Switzerland (0.51µg/m3)
The ecologically responsible nation of Switzerland is often held up as a model for the rest of the world to follow because of its beautiful alpine scenery and strict regulations protecting them.
Public transit, trash management, and the use of renewable energy sources have all seen major improvements thanks to the government’s efforts. Sustainable techniques in Switzerland have improved the country’s air, water, and ecosystem.
2 Iceland (3.68µg/m3)
As one of the least polluted countries in the world, Iceland is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and pure beauty. Air quality is high because of the low population density and the use of geothermal energy.
The country has become an inspiration for other countries working to minimize pollution thanks to its dedication to renewable energy and sustainable practices.
3 Finland (5.5 µg/m³)
Finland is remarkable not only for its stunning landscapes but also for the lack of pollution that permeates the country. Finland has adopted regulations to reduce pollution in the environment on all fronts, including air, water, and soil.
The country has many national parks, guaranteeing the survival of its unique ecosystems. Finland has also been at the forefront of recycling and trash management, pioneering a robust circular economy model that prioritizes reusing materials whenever possible.
4 Sweden (6 µg/m3)
Sweden is well-known as one of the least polluted countries in the world thanks to its dedication to sustainability and environmental consciousness.
Hydroelectric, wind, and solar power have all been widely adopted, helping the country become less dependent on fossil fuels.
Recycling and waste-to-energy programs in Sweden are only two examples of the country’s innovative approach to waste management, which has been essential in keeping the country’s natural spaces pristine.
