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    Global Average Air Quality Index

    Last updated: February 8, 2026

    59

    AQI

    The global average Air Quality Index is approximately 59 (moderate). Chad, Iraq, and Bangladesh have the worst air quality (AQI 150+), while Finland, Estonia, and Iceland have the cleanest (AQI <20). Air pollution causes 4.2 million premature deaths annually.

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    Historical Trend

    Source: WHO

    Global Average Air Quality Index by Country

    Country Value (AQI) ↓Source
    India154CPCB
    Pakistan148EPA Pak
    Nigeria112NESREA
    China95MEE
    Saudi Arabia88PME
    United Arab Emirates72EAD
    South Korea54KEC
    Japan38MOE
    United States35EPA
    United Kingdom28DEFRA
    France27Atmo France
    Germany25UBA
    Canada22ECCC
    Australia20BOM
    Netherlands18RIVM
    Switzerland14BAFU

    Why This Average Exists

    Air quality directly impacts human health, with air pollution being the single largest environmental health risk globally.

    Factors That Affect Global Average Air Quality Index

    • Industrial emissions
    • Vehicle traffic
    • Agricultural burning
    • Geography and weather
    • Fuel types
    • Regulations

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Methodology & Data Sources

    The data presented on this page is compiled from publicly available datasets published by international organizations including the World Bank, World Health Organization (WHO), International Labour Organization (ILO), United Nations, NASA, and national statistical agencies.

    Global averages are calculated using population-weighted or arithmetic means depending on the metric. Country-level data reflects the most recent available figures, typically from 2024–2024. Where gaps exist, the latest available data point is used.

    All figures are subject to revision as source organizations update their datasets. For the most authoritative data, we encourage consulting the original sources linked in the table above.

    Further Reading