Pakistan has been ranked the world’s most polluted country in 2025, according to an annual report released by Swiss air quality monitoring firm IQAir.
The report highlights that levels of PM2.5—a hazardous fine particulate matter—were recorded at up to 13 times higher than the safety guideline prescribed by the World Health Organization. PM2.5 particles are extremely small and can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, posing severe health risks.
Key Findings
- Widespread Non-Compliance:
Out of 143 monitored countries and territories, 130 failed to meet the WHO’s recommended PM2.5 limit of less than 5 µg/m³. - Top Polluted Countries:
After Pakistan, Bangladesh and Tajikistan ranked second and third, respectively, in terms of pollution levels. - Limited Success Stories:
Only 13 countries and territories met the WHO standard in 2025—an improvement from 7 in 2024.
Notable countries maintaining safe levels include Australia, Iceland, Estonia, and Panama.
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