What is Air Pollution?
Let’s not overcomplicate it. Air pollution refers to a situation where toxic substances are emitted into the atmosphere, rendering air unhealthy to be inhaled. You can see some of it, such as black smoke obliged to come out of a factory chimney. But much of it? Invisible.
Such pollutants are a result of our daily lifestyle (such as driving, garbage burning, gas-cooking, and even spraying perfumes). Yes, really!
It is an increasing issue and the worst part is that it is right around us, on a daily basis.
What are the Main Causes of Air Pollution?
The first step to the solution of air pollution is to know the reasons behind it. This is what is driving our skies with dirty air:
Significant Sara Vanishing of Air Quality:
Vehicle Emissions -Cars, bikes, trucks, buses, all of them are releasing gases such as carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides.
Factories & Industries-They use fossil fuel to generate electricity or produce goods and emit massive smoke and chemicals.
Construction Dust building; Cement Dust, and debris, of buildings under construction.
Agricultural Burning-During crop burning, the smoke and particles are emitted into the atmosphere.
Indoor Activities- Since smoking inside and aerosols sprays are all indoor activities, most of our indoor activities also pollute the air.
It is not about large factories or fire disasters only, you see. At times, it is even your own kitchen!
The Nasty Effects of Air Pollution
Being honest, air pollution is not merely a buzzword, but it is a murderer. No exaggeration here. The World Health Organization estimates that 7 million individuals prematurely die annually because of air pollution. That’s heartbreaking.
And here you have a glance at its influence on us:
On Human Health:
- Lung cancer, bronchitis, and asthma.
- Risks of heart attacks and strokes.
- Elderly people and children are particularly vulnerable.
- Brings about headaches, tiredness and immunosuppression.
On the Environment:
- Causes acid rain, which kills crops and soil.
- Hamas wildlife and aquatic creatures.
- Causes climate change by entraping heat in the atmosphere.
- Interferes with the ozone layer, exposing oneself to UV light.
On Cities & Livelihoods:
- Low quality of the air will close schools, offices, and even airports.
- Lowers visibility, which makes it unsafe to drive and fly.
- High medical expenses and unproductive time.
Bottom line? Pollution is not merely a smog issue, but it has an impact on your health, pocket, and future.
5 Powerful Ways to Control Air Pollution
Time to shift gears! We have discussed the negative, now we are going to discuss solutions. All these are easy things, and you do not have to be a degree holder in environmental science to do them.
Ready? Let’s go!
1. Ditch the Car -Go Green on the Go.
Cars are comfy, sure. However, they are also one of the largest air polluters. A single gas-guzzler SUV can generate tons of CO2 per year.
What You Can Do:
- Take public transport services such as buses and trains.
- Car share with friends, co-workers, or neighbors.
- Take a bike or walk to short distances- do good to the planet and good to your health!
- Test the electric scooters or e-bikes, it is cool and environmental friendly.
Even one individual who walks 2 km as an alternative to driving will reduce carbon emissions by more than 200g – each time!
2. Embrace Clean & Renewable Energy
Continuing to rely on coal and gas? It’s time for a change. The combustion of fossil fuel to operate our homes and appliances emits poisonous gases into the environment.
What You Can Do:
Use solar energy in the house whenever you can.
- Choose an energy company that is green.
- Use energy consuming appliances..
- Switch of all lights and outlets of electronic gadgets when not in use.
Fun Fact: Replacing one normal bulb of each home by an LED would avoid more than 90 billion pounds of greenhouse gases!
3. Plant Trees Like It’s Your Job
Also, did you know that 1 mature tree can capture 48 pounds CO 2 in a year? Trees are the air filters in nature i.e. they absorb the carbon and provide us with oxygen. It’s a win-win.
What You Can Do:
- Plant trees in your school or community or home.
- Contribute to local reforestation efforts.
- One should not cut down trees unless there is need.
- Promote green belts in urban areas.
The most appropriate moment to plant a tree was twenty years ago. The second-best time is now.”
4. Say No to Open Burning
It might appear simple to burn some garbage or leaves, but it is one of the most awful things that you can do to the surrounding air. It disperses heavy metals, toxic gases and minute powdery particles which may remain in the air even days long.
Better Alternatives:
Leftovers in the kitchen and leaves in the garden.
Plastic and glass Repat paper.
Have municipal garbage services in lieu of burning.
Raise awareness in your society.
The open burning results in the generation of harmful PM2.5 particles that penetrate the deepest corners of your lungs resulting in permanent damage.
5. Go Eco-Friendly at Home
You would not even guess the number of products in your house that emit pollutants such as air fresheners and cleaning sprays.
Here’s What You Can Do:
- Clean with products which are natural such as vinegar, baking soda, and lemons.
- Avoid aerosol sprays
- Select furniture and paints with low VOC.
- Make sure that you have good ventilation in your house.
Chemicals are not needed to make the house clean. Be natural, it will be safe, less expensive and smells great.too!
Bonus Tips: Every Bit Counts!
Looking for more? Such little measures may make a big difference:
- Paperless to save deforestation.
- Reward brands that are environmentally friendly packaged.
- Do not leave your car running without a reason! Switch off the car.
- Use air purifiers indoors
- Train your children and neighbors on pollution.
Keep in mind: You do not have to do everything, but just begin with something.
What can I do in order to decrease air pollution at home?
Cleaners should be environmentally friendly, indoor air smoking should be avoided, your house should be well ventilated and your appliances should consume less energy.
What are the significant health impacts of air pollution?
Chronic respiratory illness, asthma, lung cancer and heart disease and even early death in worst cases.
Do electric cars make cars more environmentally friendly?
Yes! They produce zero tailpipe emissions and are significantly clean, particularly in case of using renewable energy.
What is the relevance of planting trees?
Trees capture CO 2, generate oxygen, cool air, and enhance the overall quality of the air. They are the supermen of nature.
Does the indoor air pollution exist?
Absolutely. Actually, poor ventilation, cleaning chemicals and smoke can sometimes do away with indoor air being polluted more than outdoor air.
Conclusion
Air pollution might appear as a huge problem of the world – and it is one, however, the thing is that each of us can contribute to its solution. Be it in the decisions to walk rather than drive, to use renewable energy, to plant a few trees, or to just buy products that are more friendly to the environment at the house, little bits can make a difference. It means that the future of our planet, and our lungs, is in our actions at this moment. It does not have to be too heavy-handed.. A single conscious decision will result in clean air, health, and a brighter future of all people.