Why we should have a universal air quality index?

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Public Health Policy
• Toxicology

Background:

• Air pollution is a leading cause of preventable premature death and illness worldwide.
• The current Air Quality Index (AQI) informs the public about air pollution levels and associated health risks.
• Existing AQI systems lack chemical toxicity data and exhibit international inconsistencies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the limitations of current Air Quality Index (AQI) algorithms.
• To propose the development of a universal AQI (UAQI) for consistent global communication.
• To advocate for incorporating toxicity metrics and standardized color-coding in air quality reporting.

Main Methods:

• Review of current AQI algorithms and their limitations.
• Analysis of inconsistencies in international AQI reporting.
• Proposal for a refined AQI incorporating toxicity data (e.g., oxidative potential).

Main Results:

• Current AQI lacks chemical composition and toxicity data, hindering accurate risk assessment.
• Significant variations exist in AQI values and categories across countries for identical pollution levels.
• A universal AQI could standardize risk communication and public action.

Conclusions:

• A universal AQI (UAQI) is recommended to ensure consistent communication of air pollution risks globally.
• Incorporating a toxicity matrix and universal color-coding is crucial for refining AQI effectiveness.
• A global policy framework is needed for consistent air pollution risk communication and public health protection.