Last year, Bangladesh found itself at the epicenter of air pollution. The World Air Quality Report 2023 painted a grim picture, revealing that Bangladesh’s annual average concentration of PM2.5, a hazardous fine particulate matter, soared to an alarming 79.9 µg/m3, surpassing the World Health Organization’s recommended levels by a staggering 15-fold.
PM2.5, notorious for its deleterious health impacts including asthma, cardiovascular diseases, and cognitive impairments, poses a grave threat to public health.
Bangladesh clinched the top spot on the list of nations grappling with the highest levels of PM2.5, according to the report compiled by IQAir, analyzing data from over 7,800 locations worldwide.
Acknowledging the severity of the situation, authorities have initiated measures to monitor and disclose air quality data.
Dhaka, Bangladesh’s bustling capital, bore the brunt of this environmental crisis, enduring air pollution levels exceeding WHO guidelines by over 16 times.
The city witnessed a distressing surge in PM2.5 concentration, escalating by more than 20 per cent from the previous year.
Various sources contribute significantly to Bangladesh’s air pollution woes, including brick kilns, vehicular emissions, industrial pollutants, and agricultural practices.
Additionally, the country faces transboundary air pollution, with pollutants drifting from neighboring countries like India, Nepal, and Pakistan, compounding the crisis.
This alarming trend in Bangladesh mirrors a broader global phenomenon, with Central and South Asia emerging as hotspots for air pollution.
Majority of the world’s most polluted cities, including several in Bangladesh, pose grave health risks to millions.
Addressing air pollution demands immediate attention and strategic investments in sustainable solutions.
Experts underscore the importance of long-term measures to mitigate the adverse effects, safeguarding public health and environmental well-being.
Air pollution, recognized as the greatest environmental threat to human health by the World Health Organization, exacts a heavy toll, particularly on vulnerable populations such as children and urban dwellers.
Moreover, the intricate link between air quality and climate change necessitates comprehensive strategies to transition towards cleaner energy sources.
Combatting air pollution in Bangladesh requires a holistic approach, encompassing governmental initiatives, public awareness campaigns, and international collaboration.
By prioritizing air quality management, Bangladesh can chart a course towards a healthier and more sustainable future for its citizens.
