Air quality might not be a priority for every expatriate right now, but that could shift soon. Expatriates and those considering relocation are becoming more conscious of environmental and ecological issues. Of course, nobody enjoys living in a city with poor air quality; the problem just needs to be acknowledged. Hidden pollutants, such as fine particles, significantly degrade urban air quality and pose health risks. Let's take a closer look at this issue.
Deadly pollution
According to a study published in June 2022 by The Lancet Planetary Health, pollution leads to 9 million deaths annually worldwide. That's one in every 6 deaths attributed to pollution. The study encompassed all types of pollution. Researchers behind the report assert that pollution is the primary environmental risk factor contributing to illness and premature death, causing three times more fatalities than malaria, tuberculosis, and AIDS combined.
Despite improved living conditions and better access to healthcare, researchers observe no overall improvement. The reason behind this stagnation is the widening disparities between various global regions and the significant rise in new types of pollution. While traditional forms of pollution like coal and undrinkable water have notably decreased, modern pollutants such as fine particles have surged at an even higher rate, negating the positive impacts of the decline.
The impact of pollution on expats' health
How does pollution affect moving abroad decisions? Air quality monitoring in our future expat destination is often overlooked, especially if we don't suffer from any health problems. For obvious reasons, our focus tends to gravitate toward job opportunities, visa processes, and immigration policies. However, air pollution directly impacts health, with researchers highlighting both immediate and long-term effects.
Short-term exposure to pollution can lead to immediate effects such as asthma attacks, irritation of the eyes or respiratory tract, and worsening of pre-existing conditions like cardiovascular issues. In severe cases, hospitalization or even death can occur. On the other hand, long-term effects are linked to repeated or continuous exposure. Prolonged exposure can aggravate chronic illnesses, increase the likelihood of developing diseases, reduce life expectancy, and accelerate disease progression. In both cases, the consequences can be fatal.
Children, the elderly, people suffering from asthma, heart or lung disease, and smokers are populations that can be more severely affected by pollution. Pollution also has adverse environmental impacts, such as increased drought, soil degradation, and diminished quality and yield of fruits and vegetables.
Greater risk of disease in polluted cities
On December 2, 2022, a British study conducted by an international panel of experts confirmed what had long been suspected: residing in a polluted city increases the risk of developing chronic respiratory, neurological, or cardiovascular diseases. In March 2023, IQAir, a Swiss company specializing in air purification products, released its annual study on air quality and the most polluted countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) sets a limit for fine particles not to exceed (5 μg/m³ or less). Only a handful of countries meet this threshold, including Mauritius, Bermuda, Iceland, Australia, New Zealand, and Estonia.
On the other hand, India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh have the highest pollution levels, measuring 54.4 μg/m³, 73.7 μg/m³, and 79.9 μg/m³ respectively. Pollution peaks are notably severe in New Delhi, reaching over 90 μg/m³, and in Dhaka, Bangladesh, at 80 μg/m³. The study indicates that Asia is the continent with the most densely populated, highly polluted cities.
Should we choose between ecology and economy?
Understanding the significance of monitoring air quality is crucial when considering relocation abroad. However, accessing reliable data is essential. The findings of IQAir studies are occasionally challenged by cities as being unscientific. Nonetheless, IQAir claims that it uses official data provided by cities, although not all cities may do so due to various reasons such as choice or limited resources. African countries, in particular, are significantly underrepresented in these studies. Consequently, residents are often the ones most adversely affected by this lack of information.
The World Health Organization (WHO) consistently emphasizes the severe health repercussions of pollution. Yet, government commitments made during lockdown periods were swiftly overshadowed by economic objectives. Nonetheless, environmental organizations remind us that ecology and economy go hand in hand. In fact, they are essential to the survival of humankind and the planet. On a European scale, the latest assessment from the European Environment Agency (EEA) in November 2023 reveals that European countries exceed WHO recommendations for fine particle levels. The consequences are serious, with over 253,000 deaths recorded by 2021. A staggering 98% of Europe's population breathes toxic air, with Eastern Europe facing particularly acute challenges. Does this mean that we should avoid relocating to Europe altogether? And if so, where would we be safer?
The best places to relocate to based on air quality
The question of where to relocate arises once again. One option is to consider cities renowned for their excellent air quality, such as Zurich, Honolulu, Wollongong, Perth, and Hobart (Australia), Reykjavík (Iceland), Turku (Finland), Vancouver, Bergen (Norway), Stockholm, or Edinburgh. However, choosing our host city isn't always within our control. It could result from a job transfer, the need to accompany a spouse, or a unique professional opportunity unavailable elsewhere. Challenges in obtaining visas or job opportunities might prompt individuals to seek countries with simpler procedures. Personal aspirations also play a significant role; one might dream of relocating to a country not known for its pristine air quality.
While it's important to pursue one's goals, it's equally important not to minimize the effects of air pollution on health. In February 2023, a study published in the medical journal JAMA Psychiatry confirmed the link between the risk of depression and anxiety disorders and exposure to poor air quality. Although the study, conducted over almost 11 years, focused on 389,185 medical records of people living in the UK, a parallel with other countries is entirely conceivable. Far from intended to frighten, these studies are designed to alert populations and prompt governments to take action.
While it's essential to pursue one's aspirations, it's equally vital not to underestimate the health impacts of air pollution. In February 2023, a study published in the medical journal JAMA Psychiatry confirmed the connection between exposure to poor air quality and the risk of depression and anxiety disorders. Although the study, spanning almost 11 years, centered on 389,185 medical records of UK residents, it's plausible to draw parallels with other countries. Far from intended to frighten, these studies are designed to alert populations and prompt governments to take action.
Useful links:
Air quality measurement applications
USA: AirNow
Canada: Local Air Quality Health Index
Australia: Air quality concentration data
South Korea AirKorea
UK: UK Air
