Can a big city have a good air quality? Pollution in metropolises becomes worse when there is no sustainable development. Those emissions produced by factories, vehicles and other mass activities can generate high pollution levels which seriously affect their population´s health. There are many ways to improve the air quality, such as promoting the use of low emission public transport or sharing the same vehicle, using bicycles or controlling emissions in industrial areas which can help a big city improve its air quality.
1. Iceland, Europe [View Map]
Iceland is actually known for its pristine natural environment and commitment to sustainability. The country has been taking measures to protect its environment and reduce pollution. They prioritize renewable energy sources like geothermal and hydroelectric power. Iceland efforts towards environmental conservation are quite commendable.
The government plays an important role in ensuring healthy living conditions in Iceland, in part by adopting laws and rules on reference limits for pollution, pollution control, industrial operating requirements and monitoring. In so doing an attempt is made to prevent or reduce pollution which could negatively affect the quality of human life or conditions for other life forms.
All industrial activity which could result in pollution must have a valid operating licence, stating among other things reference limits for pollutants and pollution prevention, measurement and research. The Environment Agency issues operating licenses for power intensive and large scale industries which could cause pollution. While the Health Inspectorates of local authorities license other polluting industrial operations.
2. Denmark, Europe [View Map]
About pollution in Denmark. Denmark has actually been quite proactive in promoting sustainability and environmental protection. They have implemented various initiatives including the promotion of renewable energy and efforts to improve air and water quality. While no place is completely free from pollution Denmark is taking steps to minimize its impact. It isgreat to see countries prioritizing the environment.
While nearly one third of the Danish population live within the Capital Region of Denmark the region takes up less than 5 percent of the country total area. The obviously odd proportions mean that there is a heavy pressure on both. The quality and the quantity of drinking water resources in our region. The task of preventing pollution from old soil polluted sites from infiltrating into the groundwater is carried out in collaboration . With specialised consultants, contractors, laboratories, universities and research institutions.
Quality management go back to the earlier days where handling of chemicals such as chlorinated solvents, pesticides and PFAS was less strict than today. As such many years of industrial activities have resulted in chemical spills. which depending on the chemical properties of the specific substances have resulted in point pollution of the soil and groundwater.
3. Finland, Europe [View Map]
Finland is a Northern European nation bordering Sweden, Norway and Russia. Its capital, Helsinki, occupies a peninsula and surrounding islands in the Baltic Sea. Helsinki is home to the 18th century sea fortress Suomenlinna, the fashionable Design District and diverse museums. The Northern Lights can be seen from the country Arctic Lapland province, a vast wilderness with national parks and ski resorts. At the start of 2021. Finland was experiencing a “Good “quality of air with a US AQI number of just 23.
This classification is based on the recommendation of the World Health Organisation WHO. It is located far enough from big European cities, so emissions from long-range transport of pollutants remain low. On a global scale there is really only one big city in Finland, Helsinki, and even its air quality is excellent. There are also few inhabitants and little traffic in Finland. To control pollution in Finland, the country has implemented various measures. They focus on promoting renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Additionally Finland has strict regulations on emissions from industries and vehicles to minimize air pollution. The country also emphasizes waste management and recycling to reduce environmental impact. These efforts have contributed to Finland’s relatively low pollution levels. Emissions from traffic and small-scale wood burning are the biggest sources of air pollution in cities and agglomerations. Industry energy production and agriculture also make a contribution. In agriculture, ammonia emissions are the most significant of these.
4. Estonia, Europe [View Map]
A number of positive changes have taken place since Estonia regained its independence in 1991. Air pollution from stationary sources has decreased over 2.5 times during 1990-1999, emissions of solid particles and SO2 have declined 74% and 60%, respectively. The content of heavy metals in Estonian mosses has decreased in comparison with the early 1990s.
Recent trends in deciduous tree health reduced damage incidents. Those facts indicate that air pollution with heavy metals and other pollutants has diminished during the last few years. As the pH of precipitation fluctuates in different parts of Estonia, it is very important to study the effect of precipitation on ecosystems on the basis of critical loads.
Results indicate that, as for eutrophicating nitrogen, the actual nitrogen deposition in North-East Estonia and West-Estonian islands roughly coincides with the limits for pollution endurance. This pattern also applies to the total deposition of Sulphur and nitrogen in South, North and North-East Estonia, although in some Northern and North-Eastern areas pollution endurance limits have been exceeded.
5. New Caledonia, Island [View Map]
New Caledonia is one of the main hot spots of biodiversity on the planet. Large amounts of contaminants are discharged into the lagoon as a result of increasing anthropogenic activities such as intense mining, urbanization and industrialization. Concentrations of 14 trace elements and 26 persistent organic pollutants (POPs: PCBs and pesticides).
Were measured in the muscles of two anguilliform fish species, over a coast to barrier reef gradient in two lagoon areas differently exposed to anthropic disturbances. This study emphasizes the high trace element contamination status of anguilliform fish and also highlights slight but perceptible organic pollution. The contamination extends throughout the lagoon, from coast to barrier reef, even in areas remote from emission points.
High levels of trace elements, especially those linked to mining activities (i.e., Co, Cr, Fe, Mn, and Ni), were detected in coastal sites. Furthermore, the large dispersion of most POPs throughout the entire lagoon poses the question of their potential toxicity on marine organisms from numerous habitats. Our results underline the need for long-term monitoring of various contaminants over large spatial and time scales.
6. Switzerland, Europe [View Map]
Switzerland located in Central Eupora is known for its picturesque landscape, precision manufacturing and neutrality in international conflicts. Landlocked country bordered by Germany ,France, Italy ,Austria and Liechtenstein. The consist of 26 cantons, each with considerable autonomy. It has four official language -French, Italian, German and Romansh. It is rich in cultural heritage influenced by neighboring countries.
The host various international organisation ,including the Red cross. This is very rich in cuisine. People especially come to visit the country for its cuisine. It has major tourist destination for skiing, hiking ,and exploring charming cities like Zurich, Geneva and It is renowned for its high- quality education and research institutions. Is home to numerous lakes and forests, providing sustainability. Has various cultural celebrations and organisation to celebrate the culture.
7. U.S. Virgin Islands [View Map]
US Virgin Island compromises of three islands – St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix. It is located in the Caribbean Sea, southeast of Puerto Rico. It was discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1943 and later colonized by the Danish. This is a rich blend of African , European and Carribbean influences. It celebrates vibrant festivals like Carnival with music, dance , and traditional costumes etc.
Tourists come to visit the beauty of the island. It has many beautiful beaches and historical sites attracting visitors. English is the official language. There are ferries who connect the main islands. virgin Islands on St. John is known for its pristine beaches and coral reefs etc. The islands is surrounded by coral reefs , offering excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. Historic towns on St. Croix and St.
Thomas, featuring colonial architecture and historical sites Temperatures remain warm throughout the year. Traditional music includes reggae, calypso and steel pan. The U.S Virgin islands offers unique blend of Carribbean charm and Americans influences and make them intriguing destination with a diet cultural and historical backdrop.
8. Sweden, Europe [View Map]
Sweden is known for its undevelop wilderness and archipelagoes stretching from the European mainland the Arctic. Large scale environmental pollution and effects on surface water quality are viewed by most people as problems that were started with industrialization in the 19th century but which do not truly develop until the 20th century. This view is also held by many scientists and policy makers working with environmental issues.
It is believes that pre industrial activities including mining and metallurgy did not occur at a level sufficient to disrupt ecosystems or otherwise impact environmental quality. This limit view of pre industrial impacts is embedded in management directives. For example in the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency’s (2007) environmental guidelines the background level of a pollutant element is defined as the.
“Concentration that occurred at the time prior to the proper start of industrialization and before agriculture was rationalized and use of chemicals became widespread”. Overlooking pre industrial impacts is problematic because the European Union Water Framework Directive defines a good status for surface waters as that “normally associated with undisturbed conditions (background levels)”. This is not an issue restrict to Europe.
9. Malta, Europe [View Map]
In the tiny EU member state Malta lies the crown jewel of a seafaring nation: the Grand Harbour, a bustling port steeped in history. A shipyard located in the harbour’s historic towns is cause for concern for many of the residents who live there. The shipyard, jointly owned by Palumbo Shipyard and MSC Cruises, carries out industrial activity in an area which is just metres away from people’s homes.
Collective pleas for stricter regulations and enforcement have largely fallen on deaf ears. Information about the extent of the problem is scarce because there is no comprehensive analysis of the shipyard’s impact on people’s health and the environment. Complaints have intensified since MSC Cruises, a subsidiary of Swiss shipping giant MSC, began servicing its cruise ships in the shipyard.
In the course of our cross-border investigation, we show how pollution from cruise ships has increased, what health impacts the shipyard has on residents, and why official measurements of air pollution are insufficient. A perfect case study for what happens when authorities turn a ignore eye to the shipping industry’s massive environmental impact.
10. Zurich, Switzerland [View Map]
In the city of Zurich, exposure limits for road traffic noise are exceeded on a network of about 230km. To reduce noise levels and improve the health and quality of life of the city’s residents, as required by the Environmental Protection Law and Noise Abatement Ordinance, the city of Zurich reduced the speed limit from 50km/h to 30km/h on parts of its street network.
The 30km/h speed limits are being implemented in three steps and the road length covered by the measure is expanded with each step. After the implementation of the final step, it is expected that, of the 140,000 residents, 28% will be protected from harmful noise levels during the day, while 17% will be protected at night.
The timescale for planning, implementing and evaluating the whole project covers the period from 2008 to 2030, barring unexpected court proceedings.
11. New Zealand, Oceania [View Map]
New Zealand consistently ranks as one of the least polluted countries in the world. The nation has implemented strict regulations on carbon emissions, and renewable energy sources like hydroelectric, wind and geothermal power make up a significant portion of its energy production. New Zealand’s dedication to preserving its native flora and fauna is in its extensive network of national parks and marine reserves.
The “clean and green” image of New Zealand extends to its water quality as well. New Zealand not only one of the least polluted countries but also a global role model for responsible environmental management. Despite the country’s clean living stature New Zealand is not immune to threats of pollution. There is not a country in the world that does not suffer from ecological burden negative effects of tourism and environmental issues regardless of government action or strict guidelines.
It is a fact that compared with the vast majority of other countries New Zealand still holds its own in the cleanliness stakes. Factors that influence its low levels of pollution include extremely low population density, its maritime geographical position, stringent government policies and a genuine respect bestowed by locals for the country’s preservation. For decades, the onus has been on citizens to preserve this functional paradise and, as a whole, they have been successful.
12. Norway, Europe [View Map]
The least polluted countries in the world, is Norway, With a diverse and impressive ecosystem. This country is filled with forest-covered hills in the south, and glaciers in the north and the west. Norway has an environmental performance index score of 77.3. Most of its energy and electricity come from renewable energy resources. The country has the world’s most sustainable public transport network, which is completely dependent on renewable energy.
Norway is taking an active part in making the earth a better place to live in. Norway is among the countries in Europe that have the lowest risk of premature death as a result of local air pollution. Every year, approximately 1,700 people in Norway die as a result of high levels of the finest particulate matter, PM2. 5, according to the European Environment Agency (EEA).
13. Luxembourg, Europe [View Map]
The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, the sixth smallest sovereign state in Europe, is linked in an economic union with Belgium. Its carefully tended forests and farmlands contrast with heavy industrial development of iron and steel. Landlocked and with no natural lakes, Luxembourg fisheries solely recreational in nature are confined primarily to small trout brooks, the Sure and Moselle Rivers, and its one reservoir of consequence.
Small, but nevertheless valuable as both local and tourist attractions, the future of its salmonoid and coarse fisheries rests largely upon control of water pollution. The surface drainage of Luxembourg is formed into a hydrographic entity in that the waters of all its rivers save one are ultimately discharged into the Moselle (Mosel) and thence to the Rhine. The exception is the Chiers (Korn), a small drainage in the south-west, which flows to the Meuse in France.
14. Puerto Rico, U.S [View Map]
Over the past 40 years, some of Puerto Rico’s most extensive coral reefs have seen increased coral bleaching events and declines in live coral coverage. Reefs around Puerto Rico are seriously degrad, with the worst damage manifesting in reefs immediately offshore from large human populations (Warne et al. 2005). Nutrients and pathogens associated with untreated or poorly treat wastewater have been linked to disease in both coral reefs and humans.
The Rio Loco watershed draining into Guánica Bay is 151 square miles, one of the largest in Puerto Rico. As this area has developed, runoff into the bay has increased nutrients and sediments to an estimated 5-10 times above natural levels (Ortiz-Zaya et al. 2005, Warne et al. 2005). As part of a larger more comprehensive watershed assessment and pollution tracking project, nutrient pollution in Guánica Bay was determined to be coming primarily from sewage via wastewater treatment plants, leaky infrastructure, and sometimes a lack of sewage treatment systems.
These nutrient inputs endanger the aquatic environment as well as the people using and visiting the Bay. About five percent of the residents in the town of Guánica are full time fishers, and several smaller communities in the area, including Papayo, Ensenada Honda and La Parguera, have historically been important fishing communities.
15. Australia, Oceania [View Map]
An environmental organisation has named the 10 most polluted postcodes in Australia after analysing emissions data from some of the country’s biggest air polluters. The Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF) did a deep dive into the National Pollutant Inventory, which contains emission data reported by power stations, mines and manufacturing plants around the country.
In order to classify towns, the ACF focused on the amount of emissions of five dangerous air pollutants: sulphur dioxide, mercury, nitrogen oxides, and coarse and fine particles. It is no surprise that poorer larger countries are higher up the list than their richer counterparts. There simply is not the infrastructure to be quite so pioneering when it comes to air quality in these countries while their large populations mean that .
There are more vehicles on the road (many of which are older models and emit more emissions than newer vehicles). Even so if these countries can move to more eco friendly energy sources and invest in public transport that emits fewer pollutants the world pollution will quickly dissipate.
16. Bahamas, Caribbean [View Map]
The Bahamas officially the commonwealth of the bahamas. It is an island country with in the Lucayan archipelago of the West Indies in the Atlantic Ocean. Although small Island developing state the bahamas is the high income country with the GDP per capital of 31458 dollar according to the World Bank.Bahamas is famous for their beauty amazing weather and the fact that there are so many island are part of what make this tropical archipelago special.
Here, Indian citizens traveller need a visa to visit Bahamas for business or tourism. Bahamas is so expensive because the most good need to be imported and all of these item are taxed when they arrive and clear custom. The report analyse data from over 60000 air monitoring stations worldwide and placed the Bahamas as the country with the least air pollution. Bahamas is the richest country in the West Indies.
The World bank classified Bahamas as a developed country with a high per capita GDP of 25194 dollar. Here, a foreign investor maybe eligible for a permanent residence permit on the basis of residential property purchase of at least 5 lakh dollar.
17. Cape Verde, Africa [View Map]
In Cape Verde the main sources of pollution include industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust and waste disposal. It is important for communities and the government to work together to address these issues and promote sustainable practices. Air quality degradation due to road traffic emissions is one of the topics of major interest for the scientific community and urban planners worldwide.
Cabo Verde does not have regulations for traffic emission control or air quality guidelines although the number of road vehicles has grown steadily over the past decade. Moreover studies focusing on the impact of road transport on air quality in this archipelago are sparse. In this study we present a first detailed air pollutant inventory of road traffic emissions through a bottom up methodology along with snapshots of the state of air quality on the islands of Santiago, Sao Vicente and Sal.
Cape Verde has been actively promoting renewable energy initiatives. They have invested in wind farms and solar power plants to reduce reliance on fossil fuel. These efforts help to decreases carbon emissions and contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable future. It is big to see countries taking steps towards renewable energy.
18. Haiphong, Vietnam [View Map]
Haiphong is actually a city in Vietnam not a country. It is locate in the northern part of Vietnam and is known for its bustling port and industrial activities. Like many other rapidly developing cities Haiphong does face some pollution challenges, especially in regards to air and water quality. However the Vietnamese government has been implementing measures to address these issues and improve environmental sustainability.
Recent tests of the city’s Department of Natural Resources and Environment detected water contamination in all three rivers that help irrigate hundreds of thousands of hectares of agricultural land and provide potable water to hundreds of water supply plants in the city. The rivers total water capacity is estimate to be around 40 million cubic metres. Test results revealing the 10 per cent of 30 samples from Da Do River was seriously contaminat and only 47 per cent of these could be made safe for residents use.
Pollution can traced to wastes discharged from 120 industrial establishments 50 craft villages and 60 health clinics and hospitals. Nguyen Van Chon director of the Da Do Irrigation Work Company which manages the river said the river seriously contaminated and its water quality severely reduced. He revealed that the company was finding it difficult to deal with the situation because of an overlap in related regulations and the incomplete planning for the city’s industrial facilities, businesses and households.
19. Tallinn, Estonia [View Map]
Tallinn is actually the capital city of Estonia not a country itself. Estonia is known for its commitment to environmental sustainability and made significant progressing in decrease pollutions. Tallinn being the capital has implemented various measures to improve air and water quality such as promoting public transportation and investing in renewable energy sources. It is great to see cities and countries taking steps towards a cleaner and healthier environment!
The European Environment Agency compared cities with more than 50,000 residents which have air pollution monitoring stations. Tallinn is place fourth following Umea in Sweden Tampere in Finland and Funchal in Portugal. The air quality data is based on surveys conducted in 2019 and 2020 that measured the level of fine particulate matter in urban air.
In Tallinn, which has 444,556 inhabitants per 159.3 km2, this figure is 4.4 µg per cubic meter of air, which places the city fourth in Europe. Estonian cities Nerva and Tartu are also listening in the top ten cities where pollution particles measure at respectively 4.8 and 5.2 µg per cubic meter. Of the nearby capitals, Stockholm ranks ninth and Helsinki eleventh in the European.
20. Kuwait, Middle East [view map]
Kuwait and the Gulf region have a desert, hyper-arid and hot climate that makes outdoor air sampling challenging. The region is also affecte by intense dust storms. Monitoring challenges from the harsh climate have limited data needed to inform appropriate regulatory actions to address air pollution in the region.
Objectives –To compare gravimetric measurements with existing networks that rely on beta-attenuation measurements in a desert climate. Determine the annual levels of PM2.5 and PM10 over a two-year period in Kuwait; assess compliance with air quality standards; and identify and quantify PM2.5 sources. Methods –We custom-designed particle samplers that can withstand large quantities of dust without their inlet becoming overloaded.
The samplers were place in two populated residential locations one in Kuwait City and another near industrial and petrochemical facilities in Ali Sabah Al-Salem (ASAS) to collect PM2.5 and PM10 samples for mass and elemental analysis.