Is an environmental health hazard that refers to the release of pollutants into the air. These pollutants are a mixture of hazardous substances that come from solid particles and gases in the air. They are harmful to the health of humans and other living beings, or cause damage to the climate or to materials.
Ozone (O3), Nitrogen Oxides (NOx), Carbon Monoxide (CO)Sulfur Dioxide (SO2), and Particulate Matter (PM10 and PM2.5) are the examples of common air pollutants.These common air pollutants can cause a serious implication on your health on a daily basis.
What is Air Pollution?
- Visible air pollution, as the name suggests, can be visible. An example of this visible air pollution is the smog you see over a city.
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-Invisible air pollutants are less noticeable, but they can be more deadly. Sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides are some of the examples of invisible air pollutants.
Can be classified into two sections: Invisible & Visible
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Air pollution kills an estimated seven million people worldwide every year.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nine out of ten human beings currently breathe air that exceeds the WHO’s guideline limits for pollutants, with those living in low- and middle-income countries suffering the most.
Poor air quality kills people. Indoor smoke is an ongoing health threat to the 3 billion people who cook and heat their homes by burning biomass, kerosene, and coal. Air pollution has been linked to higher rates of cancer, heart disease, stroke, and respiratory diseases such as asthma. In the U.S. nearly 134 million people—over 40 percent of the population—are at risk of disease and premature death because of air pollution, according to American Lung Association estimates.
Causes of air pollution
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Burning of Fossil Fuels
Microbial Decaying Process
Wildfires
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Construction/ Demolition
Industrial Emmision
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Indoor Pollution
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Transportation
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Open Burning of Garbage Waste
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Use of chemical
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effects of air pollution
Global Warming
Greenhouse gases that are produced by the high emissions of carbon dioxide and methane into the atmosphere results in global warming. These emissions most likely came from the use of fossil fuels, industrial processes, and land use changes.
Smog effect
A smog is air pollution that reduces visibility. It can irritate your eyes, nose, throat and can worsen existing heart and lung problems. Smog usually comes from burning coals
Climate Change
Air pollution can lead to a temperature change, and when the temperature of the planet increases, there will be a disturbance in the usual climatic cycles.
Deterioration of fields
Acid rain, climate change and smog all damage the Earth surface and this also includes the deterioration of agriculture.
Acid Rain
Gases that are emitted from industries, power plants, boilers, heating and transport are very toxic. If these substances accumulate in the atmosphere and react with water, it will form an acid rain that makes the environment and surfaces suffer.
Human Health
Air pollution greatly affects our health, one third of deaths from stroke, lung cancer and heart disease are due to air pollution. Inhalation of air pollutants can cause respiratory illness which affects the lungs and other organs that make up the respiratory system. Also, air pollution can also lead to cardiovascular problems.
Extinction of animal species
Deterioration in building materials
Just like us humans, animals can also suffer health effects from exposure to air pollution. Some examples are birth defects, diseases, and lower reproductive rates.
Air pollution can also affect materials and buildings. The effect of air pollutants may be seen in terms of discoloration, material loss, structural failing and soiling. This causes the buildings to be weakened, eroded or destroyed at an accelerated rate over time.
How can we help to lessen Air Pollution?
Overall, air pollution can be lessened if we use less fossil fuel.
Some examples of ways to conserve fossil fuels are:
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Walk or use a bike if going somewhere nearby.
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If a private vehicle is not necessary, travel by public transportation.
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Buying a car that has greater fuel efficiency.
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Turning off lights and appliances when they are not in use.
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Using energy efficient light bulbs and appliances.
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Buying fewer things that are manufactured using fossil fuels.
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Don't burn your garbage.
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Plant and care for trees.
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Avoid Plastic Bags.
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Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.