A review on air quality indexing system

Abstract

Air quality index (AQI) or air pollution index (API) is commonly used to report the level of severity of air pollution to public. A number of methods were developed in the past by various researchers/environmental agencies for determination of AQI or API but there is no universally accepted method exists, which is appropriate for all situations. Different method uses different aggregation function in calculating AQI or API and also considers different types and numbers of pollutants. The intended uses of AQI or API are to identify the poor air quality zones and public reporting for severity of exposure of poor air quality. Most of the AQI or API indices can be broadly classify as single pollutant index or multi-pollutant index with different aggregation method. Every indexing method has its own characteristic strengths and weaknesses that affect its suitability for particular applications. This paper attempt to present a review of all the major air quality indices developed worldwide.