The Determinants of Air Pollution Prevention; A Systematic Review

Abstract

Air pollution remains a critical global environmental and public health challenge, contributing to respiratory, cardiovascular, and developmental diseases while imposing substantial social and economic costs. Although numerous studies have examined air pollution impacts and mitigation strategies, prevention efforts remain fragmented, and a comprehensive understanding of the determinants that enable effective air pollution prevention is still lacking. This systematic review aims to identify, classify, and synthesize the key determinants of air pollution prevention, with a focus on behavioral, organizational, policy, technological, and contextual factors influencing preventive actions and outcomes. A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Peer-reviewed studies addressing air pollution prevention or control determinants were identified through structured database searches. Eligible studies were screened and assessed for relevance, and the findings were synthesized using a narrative approach. Determinants were categorized into thematic domains to examine their prevalence, interrelationships, and influence on prevention outcomes. The findings indicate that air pollution prevention is shaped by multiple interconnected determinants operating across individual, organizational, and contextual levels. Behavioral factors such as knowledge, awareness, attitudes, and risk perception influence individual preventive actions. Organizational determinants, including governance structures, internal monitoring mechanisms, and sustainability-oriented cultures, affect the implementation of prevention strategies. Contextual determinants, such as regulatory quality, institutional effectiveness, urbanization patterns, and infrastructure development, create enabling or constraining environments for prevention. Health concerns consistently emerge as a central driver linking individual behavior with organizational and policy responses. Air pollution prevention is a multi-dimensional process that requires alignment between behavioral engagement, organizational capability, and supportive governance contexts. Integrated prevention frameworks that address determinants across individual, institutional, and systemic levels are essential for achieving sustained improvements in air quality and long-term public health outcomes.