💨 Air Quality (PM2.5) in Georgia

Air Quality in Georgia

The Air Quality indicator is based on PM2.5 particulate matter measurements in µg/m³ – the most sensitive proxy for air pollution and respiratory health risks. With a score of 83/100, a raw value of 16 µg/m³, and world rank 114 out of 231, Georgia is above the global average, but still clearly above the WHO guideline value of 5 µg/m³.

Sources of Air Pollution in Georgia

Georgia's air quality varies greatly by region:

• Tbilisi: The ancient Kura gorge and mountainous topography encourage temperature inversions that trap vehicle emissions in the city. Main sources are road traffic (high proportion of older vehicles without modern emission standards), wood heating in residential areas in winter, and occasional industrial emissions. In summer, the air is clearer.
• Rustavi: Former industrial city 25 km south of Tbilisi with higher industrial pollution from metallurgy operations.
• Rural regions: Considerably cleaner air; mountain regions such as Kazbegi, Mestia, or Tusheti are among the cleanest-air areas in the region.

Seasonal Variation

The 16 µg/m³ annual average conceals seasonal extremes. In winter (December–February), particulate matter peaks in Tbilisi can reach 30–60 µg/m³ – similar to London on bad days. In summer, the value is often below 10 µg/m³.

Comparison

• Finland (94), New Zealand (94), Canada (94), Estonia (92): Cleanest air in the world
• United Kingdom (88), Australia (89), Singapore (87): Good international level
• Turkey (83), Georgia (83): Acceptable, but above WHO guideline
• Armenia (79), China (70), India (45): Worse values

Relevant for Expats

Expats with pre-existing respiratory conditions (asthma, COPD) should pay attention to Tbilisi winter months. Air quality apps (IQAir, AirVisual) help with real-time monitoring. In mountain regions, the air is excellent.

Conclusion: 83/100 for Georgia's air quality is a solid result – better than many comparison countries in the region, but with seasonal limitations in Tbilisi during winter.

This article was created on April 13, 2026