Produced by: Tarun Mishra Designed by: Manoj Kumar
Air pollution stands as a significant global health concern, being a leading cause of mortality worldwide. Yet, certain cities have proactively initiated measures to safeguard and preserve the quality of the air we breathe. A report by Smart Air, an American based company that sells DIY air purifiers, scrutinised air pollution data from 533 major cities across 88 countries in 2022, resulting in the creation of a list of least polluted cities in the world. Let’s take a look at some of the cities which have made it to the list.
Zurich secures the top spot as the least polluted city in 2021, attributed to its stringent policies targeting vehicle emissions, the promotion of cleaner transportation, and a commitment to effective waste management. The city's residents widely adopt cycling, trains, and subways over private vehicles.
Hobart in Australia prioritises sustainability and climate considerations, reflecting two decades of efforts. Some of the climate change tackling measures include substantial reductions in energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Hobart focuses on solar energy adoption and integrates autonomous sensor networks into stormwater drainage to detect and prevent pollutants from reaching the ocean.
Despite heavy industry contributing significantly to Iceland's carbon emissions, Reykjavik stands out as the third least polluted city globally. The capital employs an automated system of pot rooms and innovative carbon capture techniques, including injecting carbon gases into basalt rocks. Efforts to reduce plastic usage and enhance marine litter prevention contribute to Reykjavik's clean air.
Launceston tackles its pollution challenges, arising from its geographic features, with community education campaigns, environmental regulation enforcement, and a wood heater replacement program. The city's initiatives, including encouraging the use of electric heaters, have successfully reduced pollution, earning it a place among the least polluted cities.
Despite Hawaii facing air pollution challenges, Honolulu emerges as the cleanest city in the state. Favourable climatic conditions and lower population density contribute to clean air. While the city experiences an increase in solid waste, ongoing strategies aim to address and remove debris from the environment.
Wollongong, one of the largest cities with minimal pollution, addresses historical sources of air pollution, such as coal-fired power stations and coal mines. Eliminating coal mines and promoting alternative energy sources have contributed to Wollongong's status as one of the least polluted cities globally.
As the oldest and most sustainable city in Finland, Turku is on a mission to achieve carbon neutrality by 2029. The city focuses on circular energy systems, low-carbon mobility, and strengthened carbon sinks to minimise pollution and carbon emissions. Turku also aims to become climate-positive, with strategic efforts in wastewater management and the establishment of Chemistry Park for industrial recycling.