The latest real-time air quality data from Swiss-based platform IQAir has identified the cleanest and most polluted areas across Attica, offering valuable insight into which neighborhoods in the Athens metropolitan region are breathing the dirtiest—and the cleanest—air.

Air Quality in Attica: A Mixed Picture

Overall, the air quality in the Athens region is rated as “moderate,” primarily due to elevated levels of fine particulate matter known as PM2.5. These are microscopic particles, less than 2.5 micrometers in diameter, invisible to the naked eye, and small enough to penetrate deep into the respiratory system. PM2.5 is considered one of the most harmful air pollutants, alongside nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and ozone.

On the AQI scale used by IQAir, a score of 0 represents excellent air quality, while a score of 300 reflects very unhealthy conditions.

The Five Most Polluted Areas in Attica

According to IQAir’s real-time data, the worst air quality in Attica is found in the following areas:

  • Thrakomakedones: PM2.5 concentration of 20 µg/m³ — Air Quality Index (AQI) score: 71
  • Marousi: PM2.5 concentration of 20 µg/m³ — AQI score: 71
  • Nea Smyrni: PM2.5 concentration of 16 µg/m³ — AQI score: 64
  • Athens National Observatory (area): PM2.5 concentration of 16 µg/m³ — AQI score: 64
  • Peristeri (Monitoring Station): PM2.5 concentration of 14 µg/m³ — AQI score: 60

The Cleanest Neighborhoods in Attica

Conversely, some areas of Attica boast significantly cleaner air:

  • Korydallos: PM2.5 concentration of 6 µg/m³ — AQI score: 33
  • Petroupoli (Nikitara Street): PM2.5 concentration of 6.9 µg/m³ — AQI score: 38
  • Rizari: PM2.5 concentration of 8 µg/m³ — AQI score: not listed
  • Elefsina: PM2.5 concentration of 8 µg/m³ — AQI score: 44
  • Chaidari (Syrou Street): PM2.5 concentration of 9 µg/m³ — AQI score: 50

These figures indicate substantially lower levels of particulate pollution, contributing to a healthier urban environment.

A Serious Public Health Issue

According to the European Environment Agency, air pollution remains the leading environmental cause of premature death across the European Union, responsible for around 300,000 early deaths annually. Urban areas, such as Athens, are especially prone to higher concentrations of harmful pollutants, making ongoing monitoring and air quality management critical for public health.