The WHO air quality guidelines (AQGs) are intended for worldwide use but have been developed to support actions to achieve air quality that protects public health in different contexts. The WHO AQGs are based on the now extensive body of scientific evidence relating to air pollution and its health consequences. Although this information base has gaps and uncertainties, it offers a strong foundation for the recommended guidelines.

Air quality standards, on the other hand, are set by each country to protect the public health of their citizens and as such are an important component of national risk management and environmental policies. National standards will vary according to the approach adopted for balancing health risks, technological feasibility, economic considerations and various other political and social factors, which in turn will depend on, among other things, the level of development and national capability in air quality management.