What Is the Air Quality Index (AQI)?
The Air Quality Index, or AQI, is a standardized scale used to communicate how clean or polluted the air is at any given moment. In Indonesia, the government uses the ISPU (Indeks Standar Pencemar Udara) system, which functions similarly to the international AQI framework. Understanding these numbers helps you make smarter daily decisions — from whether to exercise outdoors to when children should stay inside.
The AQI Scale at a Glance
AQI values are grouped into color-coded categories. Here's what each level means for your health and daily activities:
| AQI Range | Category | Color | Health Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 – 50 | Good | Green | Air quality is satisfactory; no health risk. |
| 51 – 100 | Moderate | Yellow | Acceptable for most; sensitive groups may notice effects. |
| 101 – 150 | Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups | Orange | Children, elderly, and those with respiratory issues should limit outdoor time. |
| 151 – 200 | Unhealthy | Red | Everyone may begin to experience adverse health effects. |
| 201 – 300 | Very Unhealthy | Purple | Health alert: serious effects for the general population. |
| 301+ | Hazardous | Maroon | Emergency conditions; everyone is at risk. |
Key Pollutants Measured in Indonesia
The AQI is not based on a single measurement — it reflects the concentration of several major pollutants:
- PM2.5 – Fine particulate matter smaller than 2.5 micrometers. The most dangerous pollutant because it penetrates deep into the lungs and bloodstream.
- PM10 – Coarser particles that can still irritate the respiratory tract.
- Ozone (O₃) – Ground-level ozone formed by chemical reactions, especially on hot, sunny days.
- Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂) – Primarily from vehicle emissions and industrial activity.
- Sulfur Dioxide (SO₂) – Released from burning coal and volcanic activity, which is particularly relevant in Indonesia.
- Carbon Monoxide (CO) – A colorless, odorless gas from incomplete combustion.
Why AQI Matters More in Indonesia
Indonesia faces unique air quality challenges. Dense urban traffic in cities like Jakarta, peat-land fires in Sumatra and Kalimantan, and industrial activity can all cause sudden, dramatic spikes in AQI. During musim kemarau (dry season), haze from agricultural burning is a recurring issue that can push AQI into hazardous territory for weeks at a time.
How to Check AQI in Your City
You can monitor real-time air quality through several reliable sources:
- KLHK (Kementerian Lingkungan Hidup dan Kehutanan) – The Indonesian government's official air quality monitoring portal.
- IQAir – Provides city-level and neighborhood-level data across Indonesia.
- AirVisual App – Mobile app with real-time AQI maps and forecasts.
- BreezoMeter – Offers hyperlocal air quality data integrated into many weather apps.
Quick Decision Guide
Once you know the AQI, use this simple rule of thumb:
- Below 100: Generally safe to go about your day normally.
- 100–150: Wear a mask if exercising; sensitive groups should stay indoors.
- Above 150: Limit outdoor exposure for everyone; keep windows closed.
- Above 200: Avoid going outside; use an air purifier indoors.
Understanding the AQI is the first step toward protecting yourself and your family. Bookmark a reliable monitoring tool and make it part of your daily routine — just like checking the weather.