Global PM2.5 Exposure Dataset (1990–2020): Country-Level Data Based on World Bank Indicator EN.ATM.PM25.MC.M3

The data are based on the World Bank World Development Indicators (WDI), specifically the indicator: EN.ATM.PM25.MC.M3 – PM2.5 air pollution, mean annual exposure (micrograms per cubic meter). This indicator represents population-weighted exposure to ambient PM2.5 pollution, defined as the average level of exposure of a country's population to concentrations of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) with an aerodynamic diameter of less than 2.5 microns. These particles are capable of penetrating deep into the respiratory tract and are associated with significant health risks. The original data were obtained from:https://data.worldbank.org/indicator/EN.ATM.PM25.MC.M3 Accessed on: April 2026. The dataset was pre-processed as follows:– only sovereign countries were retained (non-country aggregates and regions removed);– missing observations were handled;– the data were transformed into a balanced panel for the period 1990–2020;– country-year observations were used to construct dynamic decile groups;– the dataset was prepared for Markov chain and spatial Markov analysis. The processed dataset ensures full reproducibility of the empirical results presented in the associated study. If you use this dataset, please cite the World Bank World Development Indicators and this repository.