Series: Air Quality Basics
A learning path on air pollution: what PM2.5 is, how the Air Quality Index works, the standards in West Africa, where to find data, and how forecasts are made.
5 parts, best read in order.
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Part 1
What is Particulate Matter (PM2.5) and the Environmental Significance
Particulate Matter (PM) comprises a diverse mix of solid and liquid particles suspended in the atmosphere, varying in size, chemical composition, and origin (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency [EPA], 2023). Among...
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Part 2
Understanding the Air Quality Index (AQI)
The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a vital tool developed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to communicate outdoor air quality and its potential health impacts. This index provides...
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Part 3
Ambient Air Quality Standards in West Africa From WHO: The Current State (2025)
In the rapidly urbanizing region of West Africa, ambient air quality has become a pressing concern. With cities expanding and industrialization on the rise, the air we breathe is increasingly...
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Part 4
Guide to Accessing Air Quality Data from US Embassies Worldwide
AirNow.gov is a collaborative platform involving the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and other agencies, dedicated to providing air quality information to the...
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Part 5
How Google forecasts Weather and Air Quality Data
Google's weather forecasts are created using an internal forecasting system that combines weather models and observations from various global weather agencies. The primary data sources for Google's weather forecasting include:...