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| See current air quality in Hanoi (Hanoi Air Quality Monitoring Network) (in Vietnamese) See annual mean exposure to PM2.5 in Hanoi (WHO’s Breathelife campaign) |
Background
Air pollution is a leading environmental concern in this country. Modernisation and industrialisation have caused an increase in industrial and vehicular emissions. Electricity is mostly generated by coal-fired plants and widespread construction add to emissions. Traffic pollution is very high in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Additionally, brick kilns and use of biomass for cooking in rural areas add to the problem.
Air quality monitoring
Air quality is monitored in Hanoi by the Hanoi Air Quality Monitoring Network, Hanoi People’s Committee. Data is recorded for six pollutants particulate matter PM 10 and PM 2.5, nitrogen dioxide NO2, Sulphur dioxide SO2, carbon monoxide CO and ozone O3 and is published every four hours.
Air Quality Index
| AQI level | Descriptor |
| 0-50 (Good) | Does not affect health |
| 51-100 (Moderate) | Air quality is acceptable. However, people sensitive to air pollution may be affected. They should reduce outdoor exercise. |
| 101-150 (Polluted) | People sensitive to air pollution are most likely to be affected. They should refrain from outdoor activities. Healthy people will be less affected. |
| 151-200 (Unhealthy) | People in sensitive groups should avoid outdoor activities. Healthy people should also take precautions. |
| 201-300 (Very Unhealthy) | Urgent health warning. Affects all age groups. |
| 301-500 (Hazardous) | Alert level pollution. Will affect everyone adversely. |
Reviewed: September 2026
