The WHO air quality guidelines (AQGs) are intended for worldwide use but have been developed to support actions to achieve air quality that protects public health in different contexts. The WHO AQGs are based on the now extensive body of scientific evidence relating to air pollution and its health consequences. Although this information base has gaps and uncertainties, it offers a strong foundation for the recommended guidelines.

Air quality standards, on the other hand, are set by each country to protect the public health of their citizens and as such are an important component of national risk management and environmental policies. National standards will vary according to the approach adopted for balancing health risks, technological feasibility, economic considerations and various other political and social factors, which in turn will depend on, among other things, the level of development and national capability in air quality management.

Return to AirVisual Knowledge Base

Related news

View all

Smoke over a city skyline

Great Lakes Air Quality Alert: Canadian Wildfire Smoke

Smoke from Canada’s northern forest fires has drifted into the Great Lakes region. Find out more about this air quality event.

Read more

Smoke over the Grand Canyon.

Wildfire Map Spotlight: North Rim Fires, Arizona

A historic lodge has been destroyed as a pair of wildfires burns along the Grand Canyon’s North Rim. Find out more about these fires.

Read more

Smoke rising over woods and plains

Wildfire Map Spotlight: Western Colorado Fires

Wildfires in western Colorado are causing evacuations as unhealthy wildfire smoke drifts across the state. Find out more about these fires.

Read more