OpenAQ

API

Free open air quality data API for global pollution metrics

Overview

OpenAQ API provides RESTful access to real-time and historical air quality data from over 10,000 monitoring stations worldwide. Key endpoints include /latest (current measurements by location/parameter), /measurements (filtered historical data), /locations (station details), and /parameters (pollutant types like PM2.5, NO2). Responses are JSON-formatted, containing concentration values, units, timestamps, and station metadata. Use cases: building air quality tracking apps, environmental research, public health dashboards, smart city integrations, and educational tools for pollution awareness.

Example Integration (JavaScript)

script.js JS


fetch('https://docs.openaq.org/')
  .then(res => res.json())
  .then(data => console.log(data))
  .catch(err => console.error(err));

Key Features

RESTful
JSON Support
Real-time & Historical Data
Global Coverage
No API Key Required (Basic Usage)

Frequently Asked Questions

? Is OpenAQ free to use?

Yes, OpenAQ API is free for standard use cases, including real-time and historical data access. High-volume users may need to contact the team for custom plans.

? Does it require an API Key?

No, an API key isn’t mandatory for basic usage. Registered users get an API key that increases rate limits for frequent requests.

? What is the response format?

All OpenAQ API responses are in JSON format, with detailed fields for measurements, station info, and pollutant parameters.

Top Alternatives

AirVisual API Search Google

EPA Air Quality API Search Google

Tool Info

Pricing Free

Category Environment

Platform Public API

Pros

⊕ Free open data access
⊕ Extensive global station network
⊕ Well-documented endpoints
⊕ Supports multiple pollutant parameters

Cons

⊖ Rate-limited for high-volume requests
⊖ Some regions have limited data coverage
⊖ No official SLA
⊖ Historical data gaps in certain areas