Population Reports' Q&As

Meeting the Urban Challenge

Pollution and Health

Is outdoor air pollution more of a problem in developed or in developing countries?

Outdoor air pollution is usually considered a problem of developed countries, as a result of their high level of industrial activity and vehicle use. More than 70% of deaths from outdoor air pollution occur in the developing world, however, because populations are larger and pollution standards often are less strict than in the more developed world (139).

Disclaimer: The information provided on this web site is not official U.S. Government information and does not represent the views or positions of the U.S. Agency for International Development or the U.S. Government.