Air quality

Air pollution is one of Qatar’s main environmental challenges due to the country’s desert environment and wind which generate dust particles. The country is also impacted by air pollution from vehicle exhausts and industry emissions from across the region. Qatar’s government is committed to reducing air pollutant concentrations to comply with its strict Qatar Ambient Air Quality standards. Efforts by the government and academia to improve air quality monitoring and understanding of pollution sources and their consequences will continue to be an ongoing legacy.

Beyond the background conditions, the construction of tournament sites and related infrastructure, as well as the use of a significant number of vehicles and generators for tournament operations, were potential sources of hyperlocal air pollution associated with the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™. Generators were often the only way to power pedestrian screening areas (PSAs), concession stands, broadcast areas, and parking lot floodlights despite extensive efforts by tournament organisers to minimise the number of generators. In addition, despite the proximity of stadiums to the metro, buses and cars were still needed for public transportation. These sources can emit nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, and particulates, which had the potential to be harmful to spectators’ and workers’ health if in their immediate vicinity.