Alarming AQI Levels in Hanoi: When the Air Becomes an Invisible Enemy to Health
Hanoi – a thousand-year-old capital of culture – now carries an unwelcome title: the world’s most polluted city. According to our latest data on the morning of January 17, 2025, Hanoi recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 223, with Tay Ho District reaching 277. This figure surpasses global pollution hotspots like Delhi (India) and Lahore (Pakistan). This alarming statistic serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to protect our environment and safeguard public health.
Main Causes of Air Pollution in Hanoi
Hanoi’s air pollution crisis stems from a combination of local and external factors:
- Urban Traffic Emissions:
Hanoi’s crowded streets, teeming with motorbikes and cars, make traffic the largest source of PM2.5 emissions within the city. Vehicle exhaust, combined with road dust and lax emission control regulations, stands as a leading cause of urban air pollution. - Construction Activities:
Numerous large-scale construction projects often fail to implement adequate containment measures, releasing vast amounts of dust into the air. - Industrial Emissions from Neighboring Regions:
While urban traffic contributes significantly to local air pollution, two-thirds of Hanoi’s fine dust originates from industrial activities in surrounding provinces. Factories and power plants, often reliant on fossil fuels like coal and heavy oil, emit toxic pollutants that drift into Hanoi. - Weather and Geography:
During winter, temperature inversions trap polluted air close to the ground, preventing its dispersion and exacerbating the pollution. - Household Activities and Open Burning:
In suburban areas, the widespread use of coal stoves and outdoor waste burning significantly contributes to air pollution levels.
Consequences of Air Pollution
Research indicates that 40% of Hanoi’s population lives in areas with PM2.5 levels exceeding 45 μg/m³ – more than double the national standard. This severe pollution increases the prevalence of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, undermines overall quality of life, and shortens life expectancy.
IQAir AirVisual Pro and HealthPro – Comprehensive Solutions to Protect Your Health
Amid this alarming pollution crisis, owning devices to monitor and improve air quality has become indispensable. The IQAir AirVisual Pro provides real-time, accurate air quality readings, empowering you to take proactive measures to protect your health.
In addition, the IQAir HealthPro air purifier is an excellent choice for safeguarding your family’s well-being. Equipped with advanced filtration technology, HealthPro effectively removes PM2.5 particles, bacteria, and allergens, ensuring clean, breathable air in your home.
Equip yourself and your loved ones with the best tools to combat air pollution and ensure long-term health protection.
Take Action for a Greener Hanoi
The future of Hanoi lies in the actions we take today. Each individual can make a difference by:
- Opting for public transportation or eco-friendly vehicles.
- Avoiding open burning and supporting sustainable products and services.
- Planting more trees to improve air quality.
IQAir is committed not only to providing cutting-edge air quality monitoring solutions but also to partnering with you on the journey toward creating a safer and cleaner living environment.
Source: VTV, DanViet