The Top Ten Worst Pollution Problems Worldwide 2011

Environmental Reports

Using data collected by the Blacksmith Institute and Green Cross Switzerland over the past three years from more than 2,000 toxic hotspots, the 2011 Environmental Report identifies the top ten sources of pollution and, for the first time, quantifies their health impacts. The 2011 Environmental Report is based on the estimated number of people affected by the pollutants and the number of sites identified globally where pollutants exist in concentrations above health standards. The report also focuses on sites with a clear, fixed source of toxic pollution that can be targeted for remediation efforts.

In 2006 and 2007, the organizations released reports highlighting the world’s worst polluted places. The 2008 and 2010 reports described the top ten worst pollution problems, and a report released in 2009 provided case studies of successful cleanup projects.