11.6.2 Annual mean levels of fine particulate matter PM2.5, by type of settlements

11.6.2 Annual mean levels of fine particulate matter PM2.5, by type of settlements

11.6.2 Annual mean levels of fine particulate matter (e.g. PM2.5 and PM10) in cities (population weighted)

11.6 By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management

Goal 11. Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable

This indicator represents the mean annual concentration of fine suspended particles of less than 2.5 microns in diameters (PM2.5) is a common measure of air pollution.

The mean is a population-weighted average for urban population in a country, and is expressed in micrograms per cubic meter [µg/m3].

Particulate matter with a diameter equal or less than 2.5 microns in diameters (PM2.5) is the most commonly used pollutant in epidemiological studies on the health effects due to exposure to air pollution. PM2.5 is a good indicator of complex pollution mixtures and epidemiological findings suggest that it is a major risk to human health. Particulate matter consists of solid particles and liquid droplets both formed by organic and inorganic substances suspended in the air. 

Rationale and Interpretation:

The major sources of particulate matter (PM2.5) are human combustion of fossil fuels from activities such as industry, traffic, and power generation, but also household fuels (e.g. biomass, coal) burning for heating, cooking, and lighting activities at household level. Non-anthropogenic sources (e.g. fires) may also be important in some areas. These particles can penetrate deeply into the respiratory tract and therefore constitute a long-term risk for health by increasing mortality from respiratory infections and diseases, lung cancer, and selected cardiovascular diseases. 

The reported indicator value is population –weighted, because from a health perspective, it is important to know the extent of the exposure distribution among populations in order to assess the health impacts. 

µg/m3

Type of area

Republic of Serbia

World Health Organization

Annual

C110602

https://unstats.un.org/sdgs/metadata/files/Metadata-11-06-02.pdf