News ID : 210967
Publish Date : 1/31/2025 9:58:44 AM
Air pollution in Iran: A Multidimensional problem

Air pollution in Iran: A Multidimensional problem

Air pollution is a crisis affecting cities across Iran, from the most populated ones like Tehran and Mashhad to industrial and border cities. This multifaceted problem, resulting from a combination of human and natural factors, requires immediate solutions, sustainable investment, and strict regulations.

Nournews: Air pollution remains one of Iran’s major environmental problems, impacting the lives of millions. The crisis has extended from megacities like Tehran and Mashhad to industrial cities like Arak and border areas such as Zabol and Ahwaz. By investigating statistics and analyzing the varying conditions of different cities, the dimensions and factors contributing to this problem can be studied more precisely.

Megacities: Pressures from traffic and population

Iranian megacities, particularly Tehran, account for the largest share of air pollution. According to official figures, Tehran experienced more than 160 unhealthy days in the last Iranian year (ending March 20, 2024). The main causes of such pollution include the daily commuting of over 8 million cars and motorcycles, non-standard fuels, and temperature inversion in cold seasons. Due to its geographical location and high population density, Tehran is among the most affected cities.

Mashhad, Iran’s second-largest city, faces similar conditions. The city recorded over 100 unhealthy days last year. In Mashhad, in addition to temperature inversion, the use of fossil fuels in winter and the high number of cars and motorcycles have worsened the situation.

Karaj, the nearest city to Tehran, is directly affected by Tehran’s pollution. Due to its rapid population growth and industrial expansion, it is highly exposed to air pollution.

Industrial Cities: Pollution from heavy industries

Iran’s industrial cities, such as Arak, Tabriz, and Kerman, rank among the most polluted due to the concentration of heavy industries.

Arak recorded more than 120 unhealthy days last year. Power plants, refineries, and petrochemical industries, as well as heavy vehicle traffic, have contributed to its air pollution, in addition to its geographical conditions.

Tabriz, with more than 85 unhealthy days, also suffers from air pollution caused by power plants and heavy industries. The city is further impacted by excessive traffic, as too many cars and motorcycles crowd its streets, worsening air quality.

In Kerman, the operations of copper mines and heavy industries—such as Sarcheshmeh Copper (Mes-e Sarcheshmeh)—are among the main culprits of air pollution.

Border Areas: Dust storms and climate change

Iran’s border regions, particularly in the south and east, suffer from a different type of air pollution. Cities in these regions are severely affected by dust storms.

In Ahwaz, the air quality index exceeded 300 (dangerous) on most days of the year. Local and international dust storms, combined with the activity of oil facilities, are among the main causes of pollution.

The "120-day storms" in Sistan and Zabol, located in eastern Iran, have made these cities some of the most polluted in the country. Heavy dust storms have caused the air quality index to frequently enter the red zone.

Orumiyeh is also affected by dust storms due to the drying up of Orumiyeh Lake, leading to poor air quality for much of last year.

Solutions to mitigate air pollution

Diverse and localized solutions are necessary to address air pollution effectively. Regional and international cooperation with neighboring countries to control pollution sources is crucial, particularly for the south and east of Iran.

To reduce air pollution in megacities, public transportation must be expanded. Developing metro systems and increasing the use of electric buses are among the most effective measures.

To minimize the harmful effects of heavy industries on air quality, polluting industries need to install advanced filters in power plants and factories. Heavy industries must also be continuously monitored. Implementing strict regulations, such as the Clean Air Act, and imposing severe penalties on polluters are additional steps to combat air pollution.

Air pollution in Iran is a multidimensional issue affecting megacities, industrial cities, and border regions. Various factors—including high population density and natural causes—play a role in this crisis. Tackling the problem requires comprehensive planning, sustainable investment, and regional and international cooperation. Adhering to scientific strategies and enforcing regulations effectively can play a crucial role in reducing air pollution and improving citizens' quality of life.

 


NOURNEWS
Comments

first name & last name

email

comment