Monitoring Air Quality in Low- Income and Lower Middle-Income Countries
Air pollution is a global environmental health threat, contributing to an estimated 3-7 million deaths per year
Abstract
Air pollution is a global environmental health threat, contributing to an estimated 3-7 million deaths per year. This rapid literature review surveys academic and grey literature on air quality monitoring in low-income (LICs) and lower middle-income countries (LMICs). Despite links between exposure to indoor and outdoor air pollution and negative health impacts, there is paucity of long-term, appropriately calibrated data measuring air quality in LICs and LMICs. A number of methods of air quality monitoring are utilised to assess levels of air pollution. Air pollution affects all regions of the world, in a context of rapid urbanisation, the WHO estimated that between 2008 and 2013, urban air pollution levels increased by 8% and are expected to rise further given rapid urban development. Whilst most studies exploring air pollution monitor outdoor levels, indoor air quality is also a concern, particularly in households where vulnerable groups may be present. Despite concerted efforts to manage air quality globally, air pollution remains one of the world’s largest environmental health risks.
This report was prepared for the UK Government’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and its partners in support of pro-poor programmes
Citation
Avis, W. & Bartington, S. (2020). Monitoring Air Quality in Low Income and Lower Middle-Income Countries. K4D Helpdesk Report. Brighton, UK: Institute of Development Studies.
Link
Monitoring Air Quality in Low- Income and Lower Middle-Income Countries
Monitoring Air Quality in Low-Income and Lower Middle-Income Countries - Summary