conservation of air essay

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• Published: 04 October 2021

Clean air for a sustainable world

Nature Communications volume  12 , Article number:  5824 ( 2021 ) Cite this article

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Air pollution is a cause of disease for millions around the world and now more than ever urgent action is required to tackle the burden of its impacts. Doing so will not only improve both life expectancy and quality of life, but will also lead to a more just and sustainable world.

Recently, we announced that we will publish a new series of collections focused on issues related to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). We start this series with a multidisciplinary collection on air pollution. As tackling air pollution is not one of the core SDGs, this may seem like an unusual choice. It is, however, a pressing environmental hazard affecting an ever increasing part of the world’s population. Currently, 91% of the world’s population live in locations where pollution levels exceed WHO guidelines, and in a recent announcement the WHO have further cut the recommended limits. Air pollution kills around 6.7 million people per year mainly through respiratory and cardiovascular diseases 1 , and has significant impacts on mental health. The main pollutants are sourced from fossil fuel combustion for transport, industry, agriculture and cooking stoves and, therefore, air pollution is linked directly with fulfilling many of our basic needs. As the SDGs aim to tackle the issue of how humanity can live sustainably, it is thus no surprise that addressing air pollution is related to the SDGs in many different ways. Promoting specific SDGs will lead to improved air quality as a side-effect, while reducing emissions will also progress a number of SDGs directly.

The high air pollution levels that we live with today is another demonstration of how our unsustainable lifestyles are one of the key challenges that needs to be overcome to create a more just and liveable world, which is the ultimate goal of the SDGs.

Although air pollution is a global issue, exposure is often not distributed equally. Industrial processes related to the production, trade and consumption of goods is a key source of air pollution. Much of this pollution is released in low- and middle-income countries while they manufacture goods that are traded abroad, allowing rich countries to outsource the air pollution and health effects of their consumption. Hence, global implementation of responsible consumption and sustainable production practices—the focus of SDG9 (“Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure”) and SDG12 (“Responsible Consumption and Production”)—will be key to reduce this unequal responsibility and exposure to dangerous environmental conditions.

Inequality in exposure does not only occur at an international level, but also within countries. Systematic and historical forms of discrimination often translate into higher exposure levels and, hence, enhanced health burdens to marginalized groups around the world. This is probably best studied in the US, where people of colour are shown to live under poorer air quality, independent of other factors like income 2 . In a commentary for our collection Viniece Jennings highlights that whilst green infrastructure has the potential to reduce air pollution, unequal access can limit improvements for marginalised communities 3 . While we often think of air pollution as an outdoor issue, much of the exposure to harmful particles actually happens inside houses. Household air pollution is mainly related to cooking, heating or lighting, often through the combustion of solid fuels. This exposure affects women and children disproportionately, especially in the developing world 4 . Consequently, targeting SDG10 (“Reduce inequality within and among countries”) and SDG 7 (“Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all.”) will be of vital importance to tackle embedded inequalities within and among countries to reduce air pollution exposure.

Air pollution and climate change are closely intertwined as they share the same root cause of human emissions. Even though ambitious climate mitigation policies do not come for free, they will in many cases also lead to improved air quality and lower health costs. The societal costs of air pollution avoided through reduced exposure levels as a result of climate mitigation measures alone are thought to outweigh the initial costs of these policies 5 . Air pollution also physically interacts with the climate system; particles in the atmosphere affect surface temperatures as well as clouds and precipitation. Climate change thus has the potential to “worsen air pollution, even in areas where it has been improving”, as pointed out by Denise Mauzarell in a Q&A for our Clean Air collection 6 . An example of this are the dangerous pollutants released by wildfires that are expected to become ever more frequent and intense in many parts of the world.

Similarly, to climate mitigation, improving air quality depends on strict and ambitious regulatory policies and controls, which must be implemented equitably. In this regard, there are reasons to be optimistic, as strict air quality policies like the Clean Air Act in the US and similar policies in Europe have resulted in reductions in pollution since the 1970s even though levels are still too high and continued efforts are crucial. These efforts show that ambitious policy supported by technological advances like improved filtering and modernization can be successful. These efforts should not only be done at national levels, but also need international collaboration, technology and knowledge transfer in order to acknowledge the shared responsibilities of air pollution. As part of the Clean Air collection we highlight papers Nature Communications has published that look at how policy and technology can be part of the solution to air pollution.

The high air pollution levels that we live with today is another demonstration of how our unsustainable lifestyles are one of the key challenges that needs to be overcome to create a more just and liveable world, which is the ultimate goal of the SDGs. Of course, reducing air pollution on its own will not meet the aims of all the other SDGs. Still, it is an illustrative example of how an interdisciplinary focus on a measurable and technologically approachable issue can help to also achieve other goals. It is in this spirit that our collection brings together research from different disciplines, such as applied scientists, economists, political scientists, health scientists and climate scientists as it is this interdisciplinary collaboration that Nature Communications wants to support will be vital in informing policy and decision makers. We envision that our collection on Clean Air will continue to grow and we welcome submissions across disciplines in this area.

GBD Global Risk Factors Collaborators. Global burden of 87 risk factors in 204 countries and territories, 1990–2019: a systematic analysis for the global burden of disease study 2019. Lancet 396 , 1223–1249 (2020).

Tessum, C. W. et al. PM 2.5 polluters disproportionately and systemically affect people of color in the United States. Sci. Adv. 7 , 18 (2021).

Jennings, V., Reid C. E., & Fuller C. H. Green infrastructure can limit but not solve air pollution injustice. Nat. Commun. 12 , 4681 (2021).

Gordon, S. B., et al. Respiratory risks from household air pollution in low and middle income countries. Lancet Respir. Med. 2 , 823–860 (2014).

Vandyck, T. et al. Air quality co-benefits for human health and agriculture counterbalance costs to meet Paris Agreement pledges. Nat. Commun. 9 , 4939 (2018).

Nat. Commun. (2021). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-021-25491-w .

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Clean air for a sustainable world. Nat Commun 12 , 5824 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-021-25885-w

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• Essay On Conservation Of Nature

Essay on Conservation of Nature

500+ words essay on conservation of nature.

Nature refers to living plants, air, water, minerals, sunlight, and animals. It makes this Earth a place worth living. We can exist on this planet because of mother nature. We get plenty of natural resources from our planet Earth. But unfortunately, most of the natural resources are getting depleted because of overpopulation and misuse of these resources. If we don’t work to conserve natural resources, all these resources will not exist one day. So, we should understand its value and importance.

Define the Conservation of Nature

Natural resources on Earth include minerals, air, water, soil and wildlife. It contains genes, ecosystems, diversity of species and functions of the environment. It is impossible to exist on this planet without these natural resources. Conservation of nature means taking care of and protecting these resources for future generations.

So, we should conserve these natural resources to maintain an equal balance in our environment. Now, we will discuss the types of resources and how they can be conserved.

Types of Natural Resources

Natural resources can be classified into four categories: Renewable resources, Non-Renewable resources, Biotic and Abiotic.

Renewable Resources: Renewable resources cannot be replenished through natural processes. For example, wind, water, forests, solar energy, etc. These resources can fill by themselves at the same speed they are used. But, we should manage these resources wisely to avoid the depletion of renewable resources.

Non-Renewable Resources: Non-renewable resources are exhaustible resources, which means once they are exhausted, they will take millions of years to form, for example, fossil fuels, minerals, etc.

Biotic: Biotic natural resources come from the ecosphere, including vegetation, animals, and other substances procured from them. It also includes oil, coal and petroleum because they are decayed organic matter.

Abiotic: Abiotic natural resources are generated from non-living and non-organic materials. Examples of abiotic natural resources are land, water, and heavy materials like gold, silver, etc.

Natural resources can also be categorised as stock resources, actual resources, potential resources and reserve resources based on their stage of development.

How to Conserve Nature and Its Resources?

It is necessary to conserve natural resources because many of them are used faster than their production speed. We have discussed a few ways of preserving these resources below:

Consumption of less water: Making a habit of taking shorter showers, closing the tap while brushing our teeth, etc., will help reduce the wastage of water. Also, try to use your dishwasher and washing machine when there is enough load and shift to energy-saving applicants if possible.

Switch off the lights: Make sure to turn off the lights once you leave the room. When there is no use of appliances like air conditioners, coffee-makers, etc., switch them off as they consume electricity in small amounts. LED lights use less amount of electricity compared to standard bulbs. So, try to switch to these alternative options of light.

Usage of renewable energy: Renewable resources have been in practice for centuries. But, in recent years, global warming and climate change forced researchers and scientists to look for other ways to incorporate greenery into our everyday life. The usage of wind energy and solar panels can reduce our dependence on natural gas and reduce the depletion of natural resources.

Recycle: Recycling means reusing materials that are already used. It reduces waste, helping in reducing groundwater and air pollution. Look for a place that recycles items like plastic bottles, aluminium, etc.

Composting means converting scrap food waste into valuable materials for gardening purposes. It enriches the soil and avoids water runoff, which reduces soil erosion. By composting, the need for pesticides can also be cut down, lessening the amount of wastage and pollution produced by food.

Nature comprises everything that surrounds us. The trees, forests, rivers, brooks, soil, and air are all part of nature. Keeping nature and its resources integral is crucial for continuing life on Earth. It would be difficult to imagine life on Earth with a spoiled natural environment.

Therefore, taking appropriate steps to conserve nature must be a priority for the human race. Only human beings can save nature in its purest forms with their power and ability.

From our BYJU’S website, students can also access CBSE Essays related to different topics. It will help students to get good marks in their exams.

Frequently Asked Questions on Conservation of Nature Essay

What are some simple ways to conserve nature.

Follow: 1. Reduce, reuse and recycle 2. Plant trees on special occasions (birthdays, anniversaries etc.) 3. Avoid shopping for unnecessary items 4. Volunteer for public clean-ups 5. Educate others about environmental protection

Why is the conservation of nature important?

Humans are dependent on nature and its various resources for their survival and sustenance. Preserving wildlife and nature is important as the constant depletion of nature will only lead to exhaustion of these.

What can schools do to conserve nature?

1. Avoid plastic items in canteens 2. Reuse paper, notebooks, etc. 3. Avoid wastage in all forms, especially water

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• Front Public Health

Environmental and Health Impacts of Air Pollution: A Review

Ioannis manisalidis.

1 Delphis S.A., Kifisia, Greece

2 Laboratory of Hygiene and Environmental Protection, Faculty of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece

Elisavet Stavropoulou

3 Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), Service de Médicine Interne, Lausanne, Switzerland

Agathangelos Stavropoulos

4 School of Social and Political Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom

Eugenia Bezirtzoglou

One of our era's greatest scourges is air pollution, on account not only of its impact on climate change but also its impact on public and individual health due to increasing morbidity and mortality. There are many pollutants that are major factors in disease in humans. Among them, Particulate Matter (PM), particles of variable but very small diameter, penetrate the respiratory system via inhalation, causing respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, reproductive and central nervous system dysfunctions, and cancer. Despite the fact that ozone in the stratosphere plays a protective role against ultraviolet irradiation, it is harmful when in high concentration at ground level, also affecting the respiratory and cardiovascular system. Furthermore, nitrogen oxide, sulfur dioxide, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), dioxins, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are all considered air pollutants that are harmful to humans. Carbon monoxide can even provoke direct poisoning when breathed in at high levels. Heavy metals such as lead, when absorbed into the human body, can lead to direct poisoning or chronic intoxication, depending on exposure. Diseases occurring from the aforementioned substances include principally respiratory problems such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), asthma, bronchiolitis, and also lung cancer, cardiovascular events, central nervous system dysfunctions, and cutaneous diseases. Last but not least, climate change resulting from environmental pollution affects the geographical distribution of many infectious diseases, as do natural disasters. The only way to tackle this problem is through public awareness coupled with a multidisciplinary approach by scientific experts; national and international organizations must address the emergence of this threat and propose sustainable solutions.

Approach to the Problem

The interactions between humans and their physical surroundings have been extensively studied, as multiple human activities influence the environment. The environment is a coupling of the biotic (living organisms and microorganisms) and the abiotic (hydrosphere, lithosphere, and atmosphere).

Pollution is defined as the introduction into the environment of substances harmful to humans and other living organisms. Pollutants are harmful solids, liquids, or gases produced in higher than usual concentrations that reduce the quality of our environment.

Human activities have an adverse effect on the environment by polluting the water we drink, the air we breathe, and the soil in which plants grow. Although the industrial revolution was a great success in terms of technology, society, and the provision of multiple services, it also introduced the production of huge quantities of pollutants emitted into the air that are harmful to human health. Without any doubt, the global environmental pollution is considered an international public health issue with multiple facets. Social, economic, and legislative concerns and lifestyle habits are related to this major problem. Clearly, urbanization and industrialization are reaching unprecedented and upsetting proportions worldwide in our era. Anthropogenic air pollution is one of the biggest public health hazards worldwide, given that it accounts for about 9 million deaths per year ( 1 ).

Without a doubt, all of the aforementioned are closely associated with climate change, and in the event of danger, the consequences can be severe for mankind ( 2 ). Climate changes and the effects of global planetary warming seriously affect multiple ecosystems, causing problems such as food safety issues, ice and iceberg melting, animal extinction, and damage to plants ( 3 , 4 ).

Air pollution has various health effects. The health of susceptible and sensitive individuals can be impacted even on low air pollution days. Short-term exposure to air pollutants is closely related to COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), cough, shortness of breath, wheezing, asthma, respiratory disease, and high rates of hospitalization (a measurement of morbidity).

The long-term effects associated with air pollution are chronic asthma, pulmonary insufficiency, cardiovascular diseases, and cardiovascular mortality. According to a Swedish cohort study, diabetes seems to be induced after long-term air pollution exposure ( 5 ). Moreover, air pollution seems to have various malign health effects in early human life, such as respiratory, cardiovascular, mental, and perinatal disorders ( 3 ), leading to infant mortality or chronic disease in adult age ( 6 ).

National reports have mentioned the increased risk of morbidity and mortality ( 1 ). These studies were conducted in many places around the world and show a correlation between daily ranges of particulate matter (PM) concentration and daily mortality. Climate shifts and global planetary warming ( 3 ) could aggravate the situation. Besides, increased hospitalization (an index of morbidity) has been registered among the elderly and susceptible individuals for specific reasons. Fine and ultrafine particulate matter seems to be associated with more serious illnesses ( 6 ), as it can invade the deepest parts of the airways and more easily reach the bloodstream.

Air pollution mainly affects those living in large urban areas, where road emissions contribute the most to the degradation of air quality. There is also a danger of industrial accidents, where the spread of a toxic fog can be fatal to the populations of the surrounding areas. The dispersion of pollutants is determined by many parameters, most notably atmospheric stability and wind ( 6 ).

In developing countries ( 7 ), the problem is more serious due to overpopulation and uncontrolled urbanization along with the development of industrialization. This leads to poor air quality, especially in countries with social disparities and a lack of information on sustainable management of the environment. The use of fuels such as wood fuel or solid fuel for domestic needs due to low incomes exposes people to bad-quality, polluted air at home. It is of note that three billion people around the world are using the above sources of energy for their daily heating and cooking needs ( 8 ). In developing countries, the women of the household seem to carry the highest risk for disease development due to their longer duration exposure to the indoor air pollution ( 8 , 9 ). Due to its fast industrial development and overpopulation, China is one of the Asian countries confronting serious air pollution problems ( 10 , 11 ). The lung cancer mortality observed in China is associated with fine particles ( 12 ). As stated already, long-term exposure is associated with deleterious effects on the cardiovascular system ( 3 , 5 ). However, it is interesting to note that cardiovascular diseases have mostly been observed in developed and high-income countries rather than in the developing low-income countries exposed highly to air pollution ( 13 ). Extreme air pollution is recorded in India, where the air quality reaches hazardous levels. New Delhi is one of the more polluted cities in India. Flights in and out of New Delhi International Airport are often canceled due to the reduced visibility associated with air pollution. Pollution is occurring both in urban and rural areas in India due to the fast industrialization, urbanization, and rise in use of motorcycle transportation. Nevertheless, biomass combustion associated with heating and cooking needs and practices is a major source of household air pollution in India and in Nepal ( 14 , 15 ). There is spatial heterogeneity in India, as areas with diverse climatological conditions and population and education levels generate different indoor air qualities, with higher PM 2.5 observed in North Indian states (557–601 μg/m 3 ) compared to the Southern States (183–214 μg/m 3 ) ( 16 , 17 ). The cold climate of the North Indian areas may be the main reason for this, as longer periods at home and more heating are necessary compared to in the tropical climate of Southern India. Household air pollution in India is associated with major health effects, especially in women and young children, who stay indoors for longer periods. Chronic obstructive respiratory disease (CORD) and lung cancer are mostly observed in women, while acute lower respiratory disease is seen in young children under 5 years of age ( 18 ).

Accumulation of air pollution, especially sulfur dioxide and smoke, reaching 1,500 mg/m3, resulted in an increase in the number of deaths (4,000 deaths) in December 1952 in London and in 1963 in New York City (400 deaths) ( 19 ). An association of pollution with mortality was reported on the basis of monitoring of outdoor pollution in six US metropolitan cities ( 20 ). In every case, it seems that mortality was closely related to the levels of fine, inhalable, and sulfate particles more than with the levels of total particulate pollution, aerosol acidity, sulfur dioxide, or nitrogen dioxide ( 20 ).

Furthermore, extremely high levels of pollution are reported in Mexico City and Rio de Janeiro, followed by Milan, Ankara, Melbourne, Tokyo, and Moscow ( 19 ).

Based on the magnitude of the public health impact, it is certain that different kinds of interventions should be taken into account. Success and effectiveness in controlling air pollution, specifically at the local level, have been reported. Adequate technological means are applied considering the source and the nature of the emission as well as its impact on health and the environment. The importance of point sources and non-point sources of air pollution control is reported by Schwela and Köth-Jahr ( 21 ). Without a doubt, a detailed emission inventory must record all sources in a given area. Beyond considering the above sources and their nature, topography and meteorology should also be considered, as stated previously. Assessment of the control policies and methods is often extrapolated from the local to the regional and then to the global scale. Air pollution may be dispersed and transported from one region to another area located far away. Air pollution management means the reduction to acceptable levels or possible elimination of air pollutants whose presence in the air affects our health or the environmental ecosystem. Private and governmental entities and authorities implement actions to ensure the air quality ( 22 ). Air quality standards and guidelines were adopted for the different pollutants by the WHO and EPA as a tool for the management of air quality ( 1 , 23 ). These standards have to be compared to the emissions inventory standards by causal analysis and dispersion modeling in order to reveal the problematic areas ( 24 ). Inventories are generally based on a combination of direct measurements and emissions modeling ( 24 ).

As an example, we state here the control measures at the source through the use of catalytic converters in cars. These are devices that turn the pollutants and toxic gases produced from combustion engines into less-toxic pollutants by catalysis through redox reactions ( 25 ). In Greece, the use of private cars was restricted by tracking their license plates in order to reduce traffic congestion during rush hour ( 25 ).

Concerning industrial emissions, collectors and closed systems can keep the air pollution to the minimal standards imposed by legislation ( 26 ).

Current strategies to improve air quality require an estimation of the economic value of the benefits gained from proposed programs. These proposed programs by public authorities, and directives are issued with guidelines to be respected.

In Europe, air quality limit values AQLVs (Air Quality Limit Values) are issued for setting off planning claims ( 27 ). In the USA, the NAAQS (National Ambient Air Quality Standards) establish the national air quality limit values ( 27 ). While both standards and directives are based on different mechanisms, significant success has been achieved in the reduction of overall emissions and associated health and environmental effects ( 27 ). The European Directive identifies geographical areas of risk exposure as monitoring/assessment zones to record the emission sources and levels of air pollution ( 27 ), whereas the USA establishes global geographical air quality criteria according to the severity of their air quality problem and records all sources of the pollutants and their precursors ( 27 ).

In this vein, funds have been financing, directly or indirectly, projects related to air quality along with the technical infrastructure to maintain good air quality. These plans focus on an inventory of databases from air quality environmental planning awareness campaigns. Moreover, pollution measures of air emissions may be taken for vehicles, machines, and industries in urban areas.

Technological innovation can only be successful if it is able to meet the needs of society. In this sense, technology must reflect the decision-making practices and procedures of those involved in risk assessment and evaluation and act as a facilitator in providing information and assessments to enable decision makers to make the best decisions possible. Summarizing the aforementioned in order to design an effective air quality control strategy, several aspects must be considered: environmental factors and ambient air quality conditions, engineering factors and air pollutant characteristics, and finally, economic operating costs for technological improvement and administrative and legal costs. Considering the economic factor, competitiveness through neoliberal concepts is offering a solution to environmental problems ( 22 ).

The development of environmental governance, along with technological progress, has initiated the deployment of a dialogue. Environmental politics has created objections and points of opposition between different political parties, scientists, media, and governmental and non-governmental organizations ( 22 ). Radical environmental activism actions and movements have been created ( 22 ). The rise of the new information and communication technologies (ICTs) are many times examined as to whether and in which way they have influenced means of communication and social movements such as activism ( 28 ). Since the 1990s, the term “digital activism” has been used increasingly and in many different disciplines ( 29 ). Nowadays, multiple digital technologies can be used to produce a digital activism outcome on environmental issues. More specifically, devices with online capabilities such as computers or mobile phones are being used as a way to pursue change in political and social affairs ( 30 ).

In the present paper, we focus on the sources of environmental pollution in relation to public health and propose some solutions and interventions that may be of interest to environmental legislators and decision makers.

Sources of Exposure

It is known that the majority of environmental pollutants are emitted through large-scale human activities such as the use of industrial machinery, power-producing stations, combustion engines, and cars. Because these activities are performed at such a large scale, they are by far the major contributors to air pollution, with cars estimated to be responsible for approximately 80% of today's pollution ( 31 ). Some other human activities are also influencing our environment to a lesser extent, such as field cultivation techniques, gas stations, fuel tanks heaters, and cleaning procedures ( 32 ), as well as several natural sources, such as volcanic and soil eruptions and forest fires.

The classification of air pollutants is based mainly on the sources producing pollution. Therefore, it is worth mentioning the four main sources, following the classification system: Major sources, Area sources, Mobile sources, and Natural sources.

Major sources include the emission of pollutants from power stations, refineries, and petrochemicals, the chemical and fertilizer industries, metallurgical and other industrial plants, and, finally, municipal incineration.

Indoor area sources include domestic cleaning activities, dry cleaners, printing shops, and petrol stations.

Mobile sources include automobiles, cars, railways, airways, and other types of vehicles.

Finally, natural sources include, as stated previously, physical disasters ( 33 ) such as forest fire, volcanic erosion, dust storms, and agricultural burning.

However, many classification systems have been proposed. Another type of classification is a grouping according to the recipient of the pollution, as follows:

Air pollution is determined as the presence of pollutants in the air in large quantities for long periods. Air pollutants are dispersed particles, hydrocarbons, CO, CO 2 , NO, NO 2 , SO 3 , etc.

Water pollution is organic and inorganic charge and biological charge ( 10 ) at high levels that affect the water quality ( 34 , 35 ).

Soil pollution occurs through the release of chemicals or the disposal of wastes, such as heavy metals, hydrocarbons, and pesticides.

Air pollution can influence the quality of soil and water bodies by polluting precipitation, falling into water and soil environments ( 34 , 36 ). Notably, the chemistry of the soil can be amended due to acid precipitation by affecting plants, cultures, and water quality ( 37 ). Moreover, movement of heavy metals is favored by soil acidity, and metals are so then moving into the watery environment. It is known that heavy metals such as aluminum are noxious to wildlife and fishes. Soil quality seems to be of importance, as soils with low calcium carbonate levels are at increased jeopardy from acid rain. Over and above rain, snow and particulate matter drip into watery ' bodies ( 36 , 38 ).

Lastly, pollution is classified following type of origin:

Radioactive and nuclear pollution , releasing radioactive and nuclear pollutants into water, air, and soil during nuclear explosions and accidents, from nuclear weapons, and through handling or disposal of radioactive sewage.

Radioactive materials can contaminate surface water bodies and, being noxious to the environment, plants, animals, and humans. It is known that several radioactive substances such as radium and uranium concentrate in the bones and can cause cancers ( 38 , 39 ).

Noise pollution is produced by machines, vehicles, traffic noises, and musical installations that are harmful to our hearing.

The World Health Organization introduced the term DALYs. The DALYs for a disease or health condition is defined as the sum of the Years of Life Lost (YLL) due to premature mortality in the population and the Years Lost due to Disability (YLD) for people living with the health condition or its consequences ( 39 ). In Europe, air pollution is the main cause of disability-adjusted life years lost (DALYs), followed by noise pollution. The potential relationships of noise and air pollution with health have been studied ( 40 ). The study found that DALYs related to noise were more important than those related to air pollution, as the effects of environmental noise on cardiovascular disease were independent of air pollution ( 40 ). Environmental noise should be counted as an independent public health risk ( 40 ).

Environmental pollution occurs when changes in the physical, chemical, or biological constituents of the environment (air masses, temperature, climate, etc.) are produced.

Pollutants harm our environment either by increasing levels above normal or by introducing harmful toxic substances. Primary pollutants are directly produced from the above sources, and secondary pollutants are emitted as by-products of the primary ones. Pollutants can be biodegradable or non-biodegradable and of natural origin or anthropogenic, as stated previously. Moreover, their origin can be a unique source (point-source) or dispersed sources.

Pollutants have differences in physical and chemical properties, explaining the discrepancy in their capacity for producing toxic effects. As an example, we state here that aerosol compounds ( 41 – 43 ) have a greater toxicity than gaseous compounds due to their tiny size (solid or liquid) in the atmosphere; they have a greater penetration capacity. Gaseous compounds are eliminated more easily by our respiratory system ( 41 ). These particles are able to damage lungs and can even enter the bloodstream ( 41 ), leading to the premature deaths of millions of people yearly. Moreover, the aerosol acidity ([H+]) seems to considerably enhance the production of secondary organic aerosols (SOA), but this last aspect is not supported by other scientific teams ( 38 ).

Climate and Pollution

Air pollution and climate change are closely related. Climate is the other side of the same coin that reduces the quality of our Earth ( 44 ). Pollutants such as black carbon, methane, tropospheric ozone, and aerosols affect the amount of incoming sunlight. As a result, the temperature of the Earth is increasing, resulting in the melting of ice, icebergs, and glaciers.

In this vein, climatic changes will affect the incidence and prevalence of both residual and imported infections in Europe. Climate and weather affect the duration, timing, and intensity of outbreaks strongly and change the map of infectious diseases in the globe ( 45 ). Mosquito-transmitted parasitic or viral diseases are extremely climate-sensitive, as warming firstly shortens the pathogen incubation period and secondly shifts the geographic map of the vector. Similarly, water-warming following climate changes leads to a high incidence of waterborne infections. Recently, in Europe, eradicated diseases seem to be emerging due to the migration of population, for example, cholera, poliomyelitis, tick-borne encephalitis, and malaria ( 46 ).

The spread of epidemics is associated with natural climate disasters and storms, which seem to occur more frequently nowadays ( 47 ). Malnutrition and disequilibration of the immune system are also associated with the emerging infections affecting public health ( 48 ).

The Chikungunya virus “took the airplane” from the Indian Ocean to Europe, as outbreaks of the disease were registered in Italy ( 49 ) as well as autochthonous cases in France ( 50 ).

An increase in cryptosporidiosis in the United Kingdom and in the Czech Republic seems to have occurred following flooding ( 36 , 51 ).

As stated previously, aerosols compounds are tiny in size and considerably affect the climate. They are able to dissipate sunlight (the albedo phenomenon) by dispersing a quarter of the sun's rays back to space and have cooled the global temperature over the last 30 years ( 52 ).

Air Pollutants

The World Health Organization (WHO) reports on six major air pollutants, namely particle pollution, ground-level ozone, carbon monoxide, sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides, and lead. Air pollution can have a disastrous effect on all components of the environment, including groundwater, soil, and air. Additionally, it poses a serious threat to living organisms. In this vein, our interest is mainly to focus on these pollutants, as they are related to more extensive and severe problems in human health and environmental impact. Acid rain, global warming, the greenhouse effect, and climate changes have an important ecological impact on air pollution ( 53 ).

Particulate Matter (PM) and Health

Studies have shown a relationship between particulate matter (PM) and adverse health effects, focusing on either short-term (acute) or long-term (chronic) PM exposure.

Particulate matter (PM) is usually formed in the atmosphere as a result of chemical reactions between the different pollutants. The penetration of particles is closely dependent on their size ( 53 ). Particulate Matter (PM) was defined as a term for particles by the United States Environmental Protection Agency ( 54 ). Particulate matter (PM) pollution includes particles with diameters of 10 micrometers (μm) or smaller, called PM 10 , and extremely fine particles with diameters that are generally 2.5 micrometers (μm) and smaller.

Particulate matter contains tiny liquid or solid droplets that can be inhaled and cause serious health effects ( 55 ). Particles <10 μm in diameter (PM 10 ) after inhalation can invade the lungs and even reach the bloodstream. Fine particles, PM 2.5 , pose a greater risk to health ( 6 , 56 ) ( Table 1 ).

Penetrability according to particle size.

Multiple epidemiological studies have been performed on the health effects of PM. A positive relation was shown between both short-term and long-term exposures of PM 2.5 and acute nasopharyngitis ( 56 ). In addition, long-term exposure to PM for years was found to be related to cardiovascular diseases and infant mortality.

Those studies depend on PM 2.5 monitors and are restricted in terms of study area or city area due to a lack of spatially resolved daily PM 2.5 concentration data and, in this way, are not representative of the entire population. Following a recent epidemiological study by the Department of Environmental Health at Harvard School of Public Health (Boston, MA) ( 57 ), it was reported that, as PM 2.5 concentrations vary spatially, an exposure error (Berkson error) seems to be produced, and the relative magnitudes of the short- and long-term effects are not yet completely elucidated. The team developed a PM 2.5 exposure model based on remote sensing data for assessing short- and long-term human exposures ( 57 ). This model permits spatial resolution in short-term effects plus the assessment of long-term effects in the whole population.

Moreover, respiratory diseases and affection of the immune system are registered as long-term chronic effects ( 58 ). It is worth noting that people with asthma, pneumonia, diabetes, and respiratory and cardiovascular diseases are especially susceptible and vulnerable to the effects of PM. PM 2.5 , followed by PM 10 , are strongly associated with diverse respiratory system diseases ( 59 ), as their size permits them to pierce interior spaces ( 60 ). The particles produce toxic effects according to their chemical and physical properties. The components of PM 10 and PM 2.5 can be organic (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, dioxins, benzene, 1-3 butadiene) or inorganic (carbon, chlorides, nitrates, sulfates, metals) in nature ( 55 ).

Particulate Matter (PM) is divided into four main categories according to type and size ( 61 ) ( Table 2 ).

Types and sizes of particulate Matter (PM).

Gas contaminants include PM in aerial masses.

Particulate contaminants include contaminants such as smog, soot, tobacco smoke, oil smoke, fly ash, and cement dust.

Biological Contaminants are microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, fungi, mold, and bacterial spores), cat allergens, house dust and allergens, and pollen.

Types of Dust include suspended atmospheric dust, settling dust, and heavy dust.

Finally, another fact is that the half-lives of PM 10 and PM 2.5 particles in the atmosphere is extended due to their tiny dimensions; this permits their long-lasting suspension in the atmosphere and even their transfer and spread to distant destinations where people and the environment may be exposed to the same magnitude of pollution ( 53 ). They are able to change the nutrient balance in watery ecosystems, damage forests and crops, and acidify water bodies.

As stated, PM 2.5 , due to their tiny size, are causing more serious health effects. These aforementioned fine particles are the main cause of the “haze” formation in different metropolitan areas ( 12 , 13 , 61 ).

Ozone Impact in the Atmosphere

Ozone (O 3 ) is a gas formed from oxygen under high voltage electric discharge ( 62 ). It is a strong oxidant, 52% stronger than chlorine. It arises in the stratosphere, but it could also arise following chain reactions of photochemical smog in the troposphere ( 63 ).

Ozone can travel to distant areas from its initial source, moving with air masses ( 64 ). It is surprising that ozone levels over cities are low in contrast to the increased amounts occuring in urban areas, which could become harmful for cultures, forests, and vegetation ( 65 ) as it is reducing carbon assimilation ( 66 ). Ozone reduces growth and yield ( 47 , 48 ) and affects the plant microflora due to its antimicrobial capacity ( 67 , 68 ). In this regard, ozone acts upon other natural ecosystems, with microflora ( 69 , 70 ) and animal species changing their species composition ( 71 ). Ozone increases DNA damage in epidermal keratinocytes and leads to impaired cellular function ( 72 ).

Ground-level ozone (GLO) is generated through a chemical reaction between oxides of nitrogen and VOCs emitted from natural sources and/or following anthropogenic activities.

Ozone uptake usually occurs by inhalation. Ozone affects the upper layers of the skin and the tear ducts ( 73 ). A study of short-term exposure of mice to high levels of ozone showed malondialdehyde formation in the upper skin (epidermis) but also depletion in vitamins C and E. It is likely that ozone levels are not interfering with the skin barrier function and integrity to predispose to skin disease ( 74 ).

Due to the low water-solubility of ozone, inhaled ozone has the capacity to penetrate deeply into the lungs ( 75 ).

Toxic effects induced by ozone are registered in urban areas all over the world, causing biochemical, morphologic, functional, and immunological disorders ( 76 ).

The European project (APHEA2) focuses on the acute effects of ambient ozone concentrations on mortality ( 77 ). Daily ozone concentrations compared to the daily number of deaths were reported from different European cities for a 3-year period. During the warm period of the year, an observed increase in ozone concentration was associated with an increase in the daily number of deaths (0.33%), in the number of respiratory deaths (1.13%), and in the number of cardiovascular deaths (0.45%). No effect was observed during wintertime.

Carbon Monoxide (CO)

Carbon monoxide is produced by fossil fuel when combustion is incomplete. The symptoms of poisoning due to inhaling carbon monoxide include headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, and, finally, loss of consciousness.

The affinity of carbon monoxide to hemoglobin is much greater than that of oxygen. In this vein, serious poisoning may occur in people exposed to high levels of carbon monoxide for a long period of time. Due to the loss of oxygen as a result of the competitive binding of carbon monoxide, hypoxia, ischemia, and cardiovascular disease are observed.

Carbon monoxide affects the greenhouses gases that are tightly connected to global warming and climate. This should lead to an increase in soil and water temperatures, and extreme weather conditions or storms may occur ( 68 ).

However, in laboratory and field experiments, it has been seen to produce increased plant growth ( 78 ).

Nitrogen Oxide (NO 2 )

Nitrogen oxide is a traffic-related pollutant, as it is emitted from automobile motor engines ( 79 , 80 ). It is an irritant of the respiratory system as it penetrates deep in the lung, inducing respiratory diseases, coughing, wheezing, dyspnea, bronchospasm, and even pulmonary edema when inhaled at high levels. It seems that concentrations over 0.2 ppm produce these adverse effects in humans, while concentrations higher than 2.0 ppm affect T-lymphocytes, particularly the CD8+ cells and NK cells that produce our immune response ( 81 ).It is reported that long-term exposure to high levels of nitrogen dioxide can be responsible for chronic lung disease. Long-term exposure to NO 2 can impair the sense of smell ( 81 ).

However, systems other than respiratory ones can be involved, as symptoms such as eye, throat, and nose irritation have been registered ( 81 ).

High levels of nitrogen dioxide are deleterious to crops and vegetation, as they have been observed to reduce crop yield and plant growth efficiency. Moreover, NO 2 can reduce visibility and discolor fabrics ( 81 ).

Sulfur Dioxide (SO 2 )

Sulfur dioxide is a harmful gas that is emitted mainly from fossil fuel consumption or industrial activities. The annual standard for SO 2 is 0.03 ppm ( 82 ). It affects human, animal, and plant life. Susceptible people as those with lung disease, old people, and children, who present a higher risk of damage. The major health problems associated with sulfur dioxide emissions in industrialized areas are respiratory irritation, bronchitis, mucus production, and bronchospasm, as it is a sensory irritant and penetrates deep into the lung converted into bisulfite and interacting with sensory receptors, causing bronchoconstriction. Moreover, skin redness, damage to the eyes (lacrimation and corneal opacity) and mucous membranes, and worsening of pre-existing cardiovascular disease have been observed ( 81 ).

Environmental adverse effects, such as acidification of soil and acid rain, seem to be associated with sulfur dioxide emissions ( 83 ).

Lead is a heavy metal used in different industrial plants and emitted from some petrol motor engines, batteries, radiators, waste incinerators, and waste waters ( 84 ).

Moreover, major sources of lead pollution in the air are metals, ore, and piston-engine aircraft. Lead poisoning is a threat to public health due to its deleterious effects upon humans, animals, and the environment, especially in the developing countries.

Exposure to lead can occur through inhalation, ingestion, and dermal absorption. Trans- placental transport of lead was also reported, as lead passes through the placenta unencumbered ( 85 ). The younger the fetus is, the more harmful the toxic effects. Lead toxicity affects the fetal nervous system; edema or swelling of the brain is observed ( 86 ). Lead, when inhaled, accumulates in the blood, soft tissue, liver, lung, bones, and cardiovascular, nervous, and reproductive systems. Moreover, loss of concentration and memory, as well as muscle and joint pain, were observed in adults ( 85 , 86 ).

Children and newborns ( 87 ) are extremely susceptible even to minimal doses of lead, as it is a neurotoxicant and causes learning disabilities, impairment of memory, hyperactivity, and even mental retardation.

Elevated amounts of lead in the environment are harmful to plants and crop growth. Neurological effects are observed in vertebrates and animals in association with high lead levels ( 88 ).

Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons(PAHs)

The distribution of PAHs is ubiquitous in the environment, as the atmosphere is the most important means of their dispersal. They are found in coal and in tar sediments. Moreover, they are generated through incomplete combustion of organic matter as in the cases of forest fires, incineration, and engines ( 89 ). PAH compounds, such as benzopyrene, acenaphthylene, anthracene, and fluoranthene are recognized as toxic, mutagenic, and carcinogenic substances. They are an important risk factor for lung cancer ( 89 ).

Volatile Organic Compounds(VOCs)

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs), such as toluene, benzene, ethylbenzene, and xylene ( 90 ), have been found to be associated with cancer in humans ( 91 ). The use of new products and materials has actually resulted in increased concentrations of VOCs. VOCs pollute indoor air ( 90 ) and may have adverse effects on human health ( 91 ). Short-term and long-term adverse effects on human health are observed. VOCs are responsible for indoor air smells. Short-term exposure is found to cause irritation of eyes, nose, throat, and mucosal membranes, while those of long duration exposure include toxic reactions ( 92 ). Predictable assessment of the toxic effects of complex VOC mixtures is difficult to estimate, as these pollutants can have synergic, antagonistic, or indifferent effects ( 91 , 93 ).

Dioxins originate from industrial processes but also come from natural processes, such as forest fires and volcanic eruptions. They accumulate in foods such as meat and dairy products, fish and shellfish, and especially in the fatty tissue of animals ( 94 ).

Short-period exhibition to high dioxin concentrations may result in dark spots and lesions on the skin ( 94 ). Long-term exposure to dioxins can cause developmental problems, impairment of the immune, endocrine and nervous systems, reproductive infertility, and cancer ( 94 ).

Without any doubt, fossil fuel consumption is responsible for a sizeable part of air contamination. This contamination may be anthropogenic, as in agricultural and industrial processes or transportation, while contamination from natural sources is also possible. Interestingly, it is of note that the air quality standards established through the European Air Quality Directive are somewhat looser than the WHO guidelines, which are stricter ( 95 ).

Effect of Air Pollution on Health

The most common air pollutants are ground-level ozone and Particulates Matter (PM). Air pollution is distinguished into two main types:

Outdoor pollution is the ambient air pollution.

Indoor pollution is the pollution generated by household combustion of fuels.

People exposed to high concentrations of air pollutants experience disease symptoms and states of greater and lesser seriousness. These effects are grouped into short- and long-term effects affecting health.

Susceptible populations that need to be aware of health protection measures include old people, children, and people with diabetes and predisposing heart or lung disease, especially asthma.

As extensively stated previously, according to a recent epidemiological study from Harvard School of Public Health, the relative magnitudes of the short- and long-term effects have not been completely clarified ( 57 ) due to the different epidemiological methodologies and to the exposure errors. New models are proposed for assessing short- and long-term human exposure data more successfully ( 57 ). Thus, in the present section, we report the more common short- and long-term health effects but also general concerns for both types of effects, as these effects are often dependent on environmental conditions, dose, and individual susceptibility.

Short-term effects are temporary and range from simple discomfort, such as irritation of the eyes, nose, skin, throat, wheezing, coughing and chest tightness, and breathing difficulties, to more serious states, such as asthma, pneumonia, bronchitis, and lung and heart problems. Short-term exposure to air pollution can also cause headaches, nausea, and dizziness.

These problems can be aggravated by extended long-term exposure to the pollutants, which is harmful to the neurological, reproductive, and respiratory systems and causes cancer and even, rarely, deaths.

The long-term effects are chronic, lasting for years or the whole life and can even lead to death. Furthermore, the toxicity of several air pollutants may also induce a variety of cancers in the long term ( 96 ).

As stated already, respiratory disorders are closely associated with the inhalation of air pollutants. These pollutants will invade through the airways and will accumulate at the cells. Damage to target cells should be related to the pollutant component involved and its source and dose. Health effects are also closely dependent on country, area, season, and time. An extended exposure duration to the pollutant should incline to long-term health effects in relation also to the above factors.

Particulate Matter (PMs), dust, benzene, and O 3 cause serious damage to the respiratory system ( 97 ). Moreover, there is a supplementary risk in case of existing respiratory disease such as asthma ( 98 ). Long-term effects are more frequent in people with a predisposing disease state. When the trachea is contaminated by pollutants, voice alterations may be remarked after acute exposure. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) may be induced following air pollution, increasing morbidity and mortality ( 99 ). Long-term effects from traffic, industrial air pollution, and combustion of fuels are the major factors for COPD risk ( 99 ).

Multiple cardiovascular effects have been observed after exposure to air pollutants ( 100 ). Changes occurred in blood cells after long-term exposure may affect cardiac functionality. Coronary arteriosclerosis was reported following long-term exposure to traffic emissions ( 101 ), while short-term exposure is related to hypertension, stroke, myocardial infracts, and heart insufficiency. Ventricle hypertrophy is reported to occur in humans after long-time exposure to nitrogen oxide (NO 2 ) ( 102 , 103 ).

Neurological effects have been observed in adults and children after extended-term exposure to air pollutants.

Psychological complications, autism, retinopathy, fetal growth, and low birth weight seem to be related to long-term air pollution ( 83 ). The etiologic agent of the neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer's and Parkinson's) is not yet known, although it is believed that extended exposure to air pollution seems to be a factor. Specifically, pesticides and metals are cited as etiological factors, together with diet. The mechanisms in the development of neurodegenerative disease include oxidative stress, protein aggregation, inflammation, and mitochondrial impairment in neurons ( 104 ) ( Figure 1 ).

Impact of air pollutants on the brain.

Brain inflammation was observed in dogs living in a highly polluted area in Mexico for a long period ( 105 ). In human adults, markers of systemic inflammation (IL-6 and fibrinogen) were found to be increased as an immediate response to PNC on the IL-6 level, possibly leading to the production of acute-phase proteins ( 106 ). The progression of atherosclerosis and oxidative stress seem to be the mechanisms involved in the neurological disturbances caused by long-term air pollution. Inflammation comes secondary to the oxidative stress and seems to be involved in the impairment of developmental maturation, affecting multiple organs ( 105 , 107 ). Similarly, other factors seem to be involved in the developmental maturation, which define the vulnerability to long-term air pollution. These include birthweight, maternal smoking, genetic background and socioeconomic environment, as well as education level.

However, diet, starting from breast-feeding, is another determinant factor. Diet is the main source of antioxidants, which play a key role in our protection against air pollutants ( 108 ). Antioxidants are free radical scavengers and limit the interaction of free radicals in the brain ( 108 ). Similarly, genetic background may result in a differential susceptibility toward the oxidative stress pathway ( 60 ). For example, antioxidant supplementation with vitamins C and E appears to modulate the effect of ozone in asthmatic children homozygous for the GSTM1 null allele ( 61 ). Inflammatory cytokines released in the periphery (e.g., respiratory epithelia) upregulate the innate immune Toll-like receptor 2. Such activation and the subsequent events leading to neurodegeneration have recently been observed in lung lavage in mice exposed to ambient Los Angeles (CA, USA) particulate matter ( 61 ). In children, neurodevelopmental morbidities were observed after lead exposure. These children developed aggressive and delinquent behavior, reduced intelligence, learning difficulties, and hyperactivity ( 109 ). No level of lead exposure seems to be “safe,” and the scientific community has asked the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to reduce the current screening guideline of 10 μg/dl ( 109 ).

It is important to state that impact on the immune system, causing dysfunction and neuroinflammation ( 104 ), is related to poor air quality. Yet, increases in serum levels of immunoglobulins (IgA, IgM) and the complement component C3 are observed ( 106 ). Another issue is that antigen presentation is affected by air pollutants, as there is an upregulation of costimulatory molecules such as CD80 and CD86 on macrophages ( 110 ).

As is known, skin is our shield against ultraviolet radiation (UVR) and other pollutants, as it is the most exterior layer of our body. Traffic-related pollutants, such as PAHs, VOCs, oxides, and PM, may cause pigmented spots on our skin ( 111 ). On the one hand, as already stated, when pollutants penetrate through the skin or are inhaled, damage to the organs is observed, as some of these pollutants are mutagenic and carcinogenic, and, specifically, they affect the liver and lung. On the other hand, air pollutants (and those in the troposphere) reduce the adverse effects of ultraviolet radiation UVR in polluted urban areas ( 111 ). Air pollutants absorbed by the human skin may contribute to skin aging, psoriasis, acne, urticaria, eczema, and atopic dermatitis ( 111 ), usually caused by exposure to oxides and photochemical smoke ( 111 ). Exposure to PM and cigarette smoking act as skin-aging agents, causing spots, dyschromia, and wrinkles. Lastly, pollutants have been associated with skin cancer ( 111 ).

Higher morbidity is reported to fetuses and children when exposed to the above dangers. Impairment in fetal growth, low birth weight, and autism have been reported ( 112 ).

Another exterior organ that may be affected is the eye. Contamination usually comes from suspended pollutants and may result in asymptomatic eye outcomes, irritation ( 112 ), retinopathy, or dry eye syndrome ( 113 , 114 ).

Environmental Impact of Air Pollution

Air pollution is harming not only human health but also the environment ( 115 ) in which we live. The most important environmental effects are as follows.

Acid rain is wet (rain, fog, snow) or dry (particulates and gas) precipitation containing toxic amounts of nitric and sulfuric acids. They are able to acidify the water and soil environments, damage trees and plantations, and even damage buildings and outdoor sculptures, constructions, and statues.

Haze is produced when fine particles are dispersed in the air and reduce the transparency of the atmosphere. It is caused by gas emissions in the air coming from industrial facilities, power plants, automobiles, and trucks.

Ozone , as discussed previously, occurs both at ground level and in the upper level (stratosphere) of the Earth's atmosphere. Stratospheric ozone is protecting us from the Sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. In contrast, ground-level ozone is harmful to human health and is a pollutant. Unfortunately, stratospheric ozone is gradually damaged by ozone-depleting substances (i.e., chemicals, pesticides, and aerosols). If this protecting stratospheric ozone layer is thinned, then UV radiation can reach our Earth, with harmful effects for human life (skin cancer) ( 116 ) and crops ( 117 ). In plants, ozone penetrates through the stomata, inducing them to close, which blocks CO 2 transfer and induces a reduction in photosynthesis ( 118 ).

Global climate change is an important issue that concerns mankind. As is known, the “greenhouse effect” keeps the Earth's temperature stable. Unhappily, anthropogenic activities have destroyed this protecting temperature effect by producing large amounts of greenhouse gases, and global warming is mounting, with harmful effects on human health, animals, forests, wildlife, agriculture, and the water environment. A report states that global warming is adding to the health risks of poor people ( 119 ).

People living in poorly constructed buildings in warm-climate countries are at high risk for heat-related health problems as temperatures mount ( 119 ).

Wildlife is burdened by toxic pollutants coming from the air, soil, or the water ecosystem and, in this way, animals can develop health problems when exposed to high levels of pollutants. Reproductive failure and birth effects have been reported.

Eutrophication is occurring when elevated concentrations of nutrients (especially nitrogen) stimulate the blooming of aquatic algae, which can cause a disequilibration in the diversity of fish and their deaths.

Without a doubt, there is a critical concentration of pollution that an ecosystem can tolerate without being destroyed, which is associated with the ecosystem's capacity to neutralize acidity. The Canada Acid Rain Program established this load at 20 kg/ha/yr ( 120 ).

Hence, air pollution has deleterious effects on both soil and water ( 121 ). Concerning PM as an air pollutant, its impact on crop yield and food productivity has been reported. Its impact on watery bodies is associated with the survival of living organisms and fishes and their productivity potential ( 121 ).

An impairment in photosynthetic rhythm and metabolism is observed in plants exposed to the effects of ozone ( 121 ).

Sulfur and nitrogen oxides are involved in the formation of acid rain and are harmful to plants and marine organisms.

Last but not least, as mentioned above, the toxicity associated with lead and other metals is the main threat to our ecosystems (air, water, and soil) and living creatures ( 121 ).

In 2018, during the first WHO Global Conference on Air Pollution and Health, the WHO's General Director, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, called air pollution a “silent public health emergency” and “the new tobacco” ( 122 ).

Undoubtedly, children are particularly vulnerable to air pollution, especially during their development. Air pollution has adverse effects on our lives in many different respects.

Diseases associated with air pollution have not only an important economic impact but also a societal impact due to absences from productive work and school.

Despite the difficulty of eradicating the problem of anthropogenic environmental pollution, a successful solution could be envisaged as a tight collaboration of authorities, bodies, and doctors to regularize the situation. Governments should spread sufficient information and educate people and should involve professionals in these issues so as to control the emergence of the problem successfully.

Technologies to reduce air pollution at the source must be established and should be used in all industries and power plants. The Kyoto Protocol of 1997 set as a major target the reduction of GHG emissions to below 5% by 2012 ( 123 ). This was followed by the Copenhagen summit, 2009 ( 124 ), and then the Durban summit of 2011 ( 125 ), where it was decided to keep to the same line of action. The Kyoto protocol and the subsequent ones were ratified by many countries. Among the pioneers who adopted this important protocol for the world's environmental and climate “health” was China ( 3 ). As is known, China is a fast-developing economy and its GDP (Gross Domestic Product) is expected to be very high by 2050, which is defined as the year of dissolution of the protocol for the decrease in gas emissions.

A more recent international agreement of crucial importance for climate change is the Paris Agreement of 2015, issued by the UNFCCC (United Nations Climate Change Committee). This latest agreement was ratified by a plethora of UN (United Nations) countries as well as the countries of the European Union ( 126 ). In this vein, parties should promote actions and measures to enhance numerous aspects around the subject. Boosting education, training, public awareness, and public participation are some of the relevant actions for maximizing the opportunities to achieve the targets and goals on the crucial matter of climate change and environmental pollution ( 126 ). Without any doubt, technological improvements makes our world easier and it seems difficult to reduce the harmful impact caused by gas emissions, we could limit its use by seeking reliable approaches.

Synopsizing, a global prevention policy should be designed in order to combat anthropogenic air pollution as a complement to the correct handling of the adverse health effects associated with air pollution. Sustainable development practices should be applied, together with information coming from research in order to handle the problem effectively.

At this point, international cooperation in terms of research, development, administration policy, monitoring, and politics is vital for effective pollution control. Legislation concerning air pollution must be aligned and updated, and policy makers should propose the design of a powerful tool of environmental and health protection. As a result, the main proposal of this essay is that we should focus on fostering local structures to promote experience and practice and extrapolate these to the international level through developing effective policies for sustainable management of ecosystems.

Author Contributions

All authors listed have made a substantial, direct and intellectual contribution to the work, and approved it for publication.

Conflict of Interest

IM is employed by the company Delphis S.A. The remaining authors declare that the present review paper was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.

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5 reasons you should care about our ocean

Our ocean is in serious trouble. Heating, pollution, acidification, and oxygen loss pose serious threats to the health of the ocean and to all living beings who call this vast planetary resource their home. Why should you care? Here are 5 reasons:

1. The ocean regulates our climate and provides the air we breathe

Our ocean mitigates non-renewable industry pollution by absorbing 25 per cent of all carbon emission, while generating 50 per cent of the oxygen we need to survive. It not only functions as the lungs of the planet, providing us with the air we breathe, but also as the world’s largest carbon sink helping to combat the negative impacts of climate change. Additionally, the ocean has taken up more than 90 per cent of the excess heat in the climate system helping to regulate temperatures on land. Thus, climate action depends on a healthy ocean, and a healthy ocean requires urgent climate action.

2. The ocean feeds us

The ocean and its biodiversity provide our global community with 15 per cent of the animal protein we eat. In least developed countries, seafood is the primary source of protein to over 50 per cent of the population. It is therefore critical to protect the ocean’s biodiversity and practice sustainable fishing strategies for continued consumption. Currently, more than 10 million tons of fish go to waste every year because of destructive fishing practices. This is enough to fill 4,500 Olympic-sized swimming pools. Without significant change, UNESCO predicts more than 50 per cent of the world’s marine species may face extinction by 2100.

3. It provides jobs and livelihoods

The ocean provides livelihoods to 3 billion people, nearly 50 per cent of the entire global population. Marine fisheries provide 57 million jobs globally. The blue economy is a strong industry that allows many to make their living and provide for their families. However, over 60 per cent of the world’s major marine ecosystems that underpin these livelihoods are being used unsustainably, with a significant portion being completely degraded. Additionally, according to UNEP, pollution from the 11 million tons of plastic that enters the ocean annually, costs an estimated US $13 billion, including clean-up costs and financial losses from fisheries and additional ocean-based industries. It is critical that we stop polluting our ocean.

4. The ocean is a tool for economic development

The ocean is a significant economic tool. Ocean economies are among the most rapidly growing in the world. The market value of marine and coastal resources and the developing industry is estimated by UNDP to be US $3 trillion per year, which is about 5 per cent of total global gross domestic product. Thus, developing countries’ access to the ocean and shorelines allow them to develop and attract foreign direct investments and direct industry production within the state. Additionally, 80 per cent of tourism happens in coastal areas. The ocean-related tourism industry grows an estimated US $134 billion every year. However, for states to utilize their ocean resources, we must work together as a global community to protect the ocean. It is estimated that the loss of tourism due to coral bleaching alone is as much as $12 billion annually. With ocean levels rising as the temperature of our planet increases, coastline-specific tourism and energy industries are at risk along with the 680 million people who live in low-lying coastal areas, a number that is expected to rise to one billion by 2050.

5. We need a healthy ocean to survive

The ocean affects us all in positive ways, no matter if you live on the coastline or in the desert. It provides climate regulation, food, jobs, livelihoods, and economic progress. Thus, we must work together to protect and save the ocean for the sake of our future survival on this planet. To learn more about the state of our ocean and what you can to today to help, visit the  2022 UN Ocean Conference website . Make your voluntary commitments  here  to save our ocean and follow the Conference taking place in Lisbon, Portugal, from 27 June to 1 July 2022, live via  UN Web TV .

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International Youth Day 2024: Youth Digital Innovation for Sustainable Development

12 August 2024 - Digitalization is transforming our world, offering unprecedented opportunities to accelerate sustainable development. Digital technologies such as mobile devices, services, and artificial intelligence are instrumental in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

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8 August 2024 - Around 200 groups of Indigenous Peoples currently live in voluntary isolation and initial contact. They reside in remote forests, rich in natural resources, in Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, India, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Peru and Venezuela. 

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Southern Ocean’s hidden treasures: Scientists identify crucial wildlife conservation sites

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A team of scientists led by CU Boulder has identified 30 new areas critical for conserving biodiversity in the Southern Ocean surrounding Antarctica. In a study published Aug. 15 in the journal Conservation Biology, the researchers warn that without greater protection to limit human activities in these areas, native wildlife could face significant population declines.

“Many animals are only found in the Southern Ocean, and they all play an important role in its ecosystem,” said Cassandra Brooks , the paper’s senior author and associate professor in the Department of Environmental Studies at CU Boulder. “While Antarctica and the Southern Ocean feel really far away, they, and the life within them, are critical to the functioning of Earth systems.”

The Southern Ocean is home to many beloved animals like Adélie penguins, Weddell seals and humpback whales. Its remote location and harsh conditions—including frigid temperatures and extensive sea ice—have largely protected biodiversity in Antarctica and the Southern Ocean from human activities. 

“Despite the planet being in the midst of a mass extinction, the Southern Ocean in Antarctica is one of the few places in the world that hasn’t had any known species go extinct,” said Sarah Becker , the paper’s first author and a doctoral student in the Department of Environmental Studies. 

But as climate change warms the planet and melts the sea ice, fishing and tourism in the region have increased. These human activities not only compete with wildlife for resources but could also cause stress, and introduce invasive species and diseases that native wildlife has little or no defense mechanisms against.  

Becker, Brooks and their team set off to identify Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs) in the Southern Ocean that species depend on for their populations to persist.

Cassandra Brooks

Sarah Becker

They used existing tracking data for 13 Antarctic and sub-Antarctic seabirds and seals—for example Adélie penguins, sooty albatrosses and southern elephant seals— and identified 30 KBAs across the Southern Ocean. These sites represent marine habitats that species travel to for foraging, breeding and migration.

Prior work in identifying conservation zones in the Southern Ocean at a large scale tended to group different species into a single dataset to look for areas important for multiple species. While this approach is a vital component of conservation planning, it can overlook some areas crucial for certain species due to their unique life stages and migration patterns, Becker said. 

For example, the team found two large sites in the waters near Amanda Bay in East Antarctica that serve as key foraging grounds for many emperor penguins as they recover after breeding. The researchers also identified several sites in the waters near Campbell Island South of New Zealand where a breeding population of endangered grey-headed albatross forage. Other similar large-scale conservation designation efforts, such as Important Bird Areas or Ecologically and Biologically Significant Areas, had not flagged these sites as priorities.

“Our study bridges the gap between the broad-scale perspective and the specific needs of individual populations, adding an important layer of detail,” Becker said. 

The researchers hope international bodies and governments will consider these findings when developing conservation strategies and determining areas where fishing should be restricted. 

“By reducing fishing or tourism interactions in these key biodiversity areas, we can potentially give these animals the best chance of adapting and becoming resilient to climate change,” said Brooks, who is also a fellow of CU Boulder’s  Institute of Arctic and Alpine Research .

The Southern Ocean is one of the most pivotal buffers of climate change. Its cold water  captures 40% of human-generated carbon dioxide emissions  around the world and 60-90% of the excess heat from climate change. 

“Antarctica is far away, but what happens there doesn’t stop there,” Brooks said. “Wildfires here in Colorado are tied to what's happening in the Southern Ocean. Through doing more to safeguard the Antarctic, we actually stand to create a more livable world for us all.”

Biodiversity in the Southern Ocean

An Adélie penguin jumps out of the water. (Credit: John Weller)

An Adélie penguin swims in the Southern Ocean. (Credit: John Weller)

A group of Adélie penguins walk on ice. (Credit: John Weller)

An Antarctic petrel in Antarctica. (Credit: John Weller)

Emperor penguins huddle together. (Credit: John Weller)

An emperor penguin swims in the Southern Ocean. (Credit: John Weller)

A Weddell seal in the Southern Ocean. (Credit: John Weller)

A black-browed albatross flies through the sky. (Credit: John Weller)

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Earth > Ask a Scientist About Our Environment > How can we save Earth from air pollution?

How can we save the Earth from air pollution? —  Liam T., Grade 6

Biologist Erin Vintinner answers this question:

This is a great question. Air pollution is damaging not only to human health, but to other species and ecosystems as well. 

Our atmosphere is a protective layer of gases surrounding Earth . It can be polluted by natural sources, like when a volcano  erupts and spews gases into the air. But human activity also pollutes the atmosphere. Often, pollutants are released as byproducts of our daily activities, like using motor vehicles and producing energy  in power plants. 

Here are some types of air pollution caused by human activity. 

Chemicals:  This includes sulfur dioxide gas released from coal and oil refineries. Some of these chemicals take part in reactions in the atmosphere, and can result in acid rain. 

Greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide :  These gases are found naturally in our atmosphere. But human activity is also releasing them in large quantities. This contributes to global climate change .

Urban smog:  These harmful gases and tiny particles can irritate our eyes, nose, and throat in the short-term. In the long-term, they can worsen heart and lung problems.

Urban smog can be a very serious hazard in densely populated areas.

Here are a few ways that we can protect ourselves and other species from the harmful effects of air pollution.

Use our vehicles less. We can take public transportation, ride a bike, or walk whenever possible. This will reduce the amount of pollutants emitted into the air.

Use cleaner fuels and more fuel-efficient products. Encourage your parents and other grown-ups to use cleaner fuels in their car. A good choice is E10, a blend of clean-burning ethanol and gasoline. Or, they can switch to a more fuel-efficient car that gets better gas mileage. On a smaller scale, they can replace gas-powered lawn mowers with alternatives such as electric or manual mowers. 

Factories can use control devices. For example, factories can use "scrubbers" on smoke stacks to trap particles and protect against acid rain. These control devices remove pollution at its source. 

Vote! In the future, you can vote and support good governmental policies and regulations that promote healthy air and reduce the amount of air pollution in our atmosphere.

From a local to a global scale, we can all pitch in to reduce air pollution!

Explore More:  

• Kids talk about the effects of carbon dioxide in this video,  The Pollution Problem . 

Name: Erin Vintinner

Job Title: Biodiversity Specialist, Center for Biodiversity & Conservation

Known For: Erin is a biologist. At the Museum, she helps with a global project that improves the conservation of biodiversity  by training educators.

Cool Fact: Erin spent a summer in a remote area outside of Sitka, Alaska. She was studying Pacific salmon that are returning to their birthplace. These amazing fish are born in freshwater. They then spend years maturing in the ocean before heading home to create the next generation of salmon.

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Essay on Conservation of the Environment: Preserving Our Planet for Future Generations

Title: conservation of the environment: preserving our planet for future generations, introduction:.

The environment is the very foundation of our existence, providing us with the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the resources we depend upon for survival. However, the rapid pace of industrialization, urbanization, and unsustainable practices has put tremendous pressure on our ecosystems, endangering the delicate balance of nature. In this essay, we will delve into the importance of conserving the environment and discuss the measures we can take to preserve it for future generations.

1. Biodiversity Preservation:

One of the primary reasons for conserving the environment is to protect biodiversity, the incredible variety of life on Earth. Every species, from microscopic organisms to majestic animals, plays a crucial role in maintaining the equilibrium of ecosystems. By preserving biodiversity, we ensure the resilience and stability of ecosystems, which in turn benefits human health, agriculture, and overall well-being. Conservation efforts, such as the establishment of protected areas and the prevention of habitat destruction, are essential for safeguarding the intricate web of life.

2. Sustainable Resource Management:

Conserving the environment involves managing our natural resources in a sustainable manner. This means using resources responsibly, minimizing waste, and reducing our reliance on non-renewable sources. By embracing practices like recycling, energy efficiency, and sustainable agriculture, we can reduce our ecological footprint and ensure the long-term availability of vital resources. Sustainable resource management also includes protecting forests, which act as carbon sinks, provide habitat for countless species, and contribute to the overall health of our planet.

3. Climate Change Mitigation:

Environmental conservation is closely linked to mitigating climate change, one of the most pressing global challenges of our time. The burning of fossil fuels and deforestation have led to the accumulation of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, resulting in rising temperatures and severe weather events. By transitioning to clean and renewable energy sources, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and promoting climate-friendly practices, we can limit the impacts of climate change and protect vulnerable ecosystems and communities.

4. Water and Air Quality Protection:

Conserving the environment also involves safeguarding the quality of our water and air, essential resources for all life forms. Pollution from industrial activities, improper waste disposal, and harmful agricultural practices has contaminated water bodies and compromised air quality. By implementing strict regulations, adopting sustainable practices, and investing in water and air treatment technologies, we can ensure clean and safe environments for current and future generations.

5. Environmental Education and Advocacy:

Education and awareness are pivotal in fostering a culture of environmental conservation. By educating individuals about the importance of environmental protection, we can empower them to make informed choices and take action. Environmental advocacy plays a crucial role in influencing policy decisions, promoting sustainable practices, and holding corporations and governments accountable for their environmental impact. By coming together as a global community, we can amplify our efforts and create a collective movement for the conservation of our planet.

Conclusion:

Conservation of the environment is not just a responsibility; it is a moral imperative for the survival and well-being of future generations. By preserving biodiversity, practicing sustainable resource management, mitigating climate change, and protecting water and air quality, we can ensure a sustainable and thriving planet. It is crucial for individuals, communities, governments, and organizations to work hand in hand to prioritize environmental conservation. By nurturing a deep respect and appreciation for nature, we can pave the way for a harmonious coexistence with our environment and secure a brighter future for all.

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✍️Essay on Natural Resources: Samples in 100, 150 and 200 Words 

• Updated on  
• Nov 2, 2023

Wondering about how the resources provided by our planet Earth are depleting? Well, that’s true. We have come to the stage where we should start working towards saving our planet. We humans have used our resources in a humongous quantity. Therefore, it’s time we start working towards saving our planet for our future generations. Today we will provide you with a few samples of essay on natural resources which will help you write on this topic easily. 

Table of Contents

• 1 What are Natural Resources?
• 2 Types of Natural Resources
• 3 Essay on Natural Resources in 100 Words
• 4 Essay on Natural Resources in 150 Words
• 5 Essay on Natural Resources in 200 Words

What are Natural Resources?

Natural Resources are resources which are present in nature independent of human actions. 

These are the resources that are created naturally by the environment, without any help from humans. Soil, stone, sunlight, air, plants, animals, fossil fuels, etc. are all natural resources.

In simple language, natural resources are naturally occurring materials which are useful to humankind. They can also be useful in a variety of ways such as in technological, economic or social contexts. These resources include building, clothing materials, food, water, fertilisers and geothermal energy. Natural resources were traditionally within the purview of the natural sciences.

Also Read: Essay on Save Environment: Samples in 100, 200, 300 Words

Also Read: How to Prepare for UPSC in 6 Months?

Types of Natural Resources

Speaking of the type of natural resources, there are mainly two types of natural resources. These include Renewable and Non-renewable resources. 

Renewable Resources: These are those resources which are endlessly available to humans for several uses. These resources are trees, wind, and water.

Non-Renewable Resources: These resources are available to humans in infinite quantities as they are not renewable and their supply may eventually run out. Minerals and fossil fuels are a few examples.

Also Read: Essay on the Importance of the English Language for Students

Essay on Natural Resources in 100 Words

Natural resources are parts of the natural world that are useful to humans. Renewable resources are those that can be swiftly replenished, these include soil, water, and air., Non-renewable resources are those that need time to recover, such as minerals, oil, natural gas, etc. 

One should note that the survival of all life on Earth depends on natural resources. However, the usage of natural resources in excess use can cause ecosystem disruption. Many nations are taking action these days to protect their natural resources. Natural resources shouldn’t be used for purposes outside our needs. In order to preserve non-renewable resources, we should utilise renewable resources more frequently than non-renewable ones.

Essay on Natural Resources in 150 Words

The organic aspects of nature that contribute to our way of life are known as natural resources. For survival, we rely on natural resources. Natural resources include things like air, water, soil, minerals, crops, etc. Resources like minerals, oil, and other resources are found in non-living organisms and take eons to regenerate. 

The distribution of natural resources is not even. Resources like these are also the primary driver of international trade relations for many nations. However, with time, these natural resources have now been overused by the human mankind beyond their limits. 

However, the unrestricted exploitation of natural resources is a challenge for all nations these days. To control this, a lot of nations are emphasising garbage recycling and employing more renewable resources than non-renewable ones. 

Sustainable development is the use of natural resources for current requirements without wasting them while keeping an eye on the future. It refers to the wise use of natural resources without sacrificing what coming generations will need.

Also Read: Essay on Unity in Diversity in 100 to 200 Words

Essay on Natural Resources in 200 Words

Natural resources are materials found in the environment that humans use to survive.  From the very start, humans have been dependent on these resources. While some of these resources can be restored more rapidly than others, some require more time. Resources like sunlight, water, air, and other renewable resources are readily available and have higher recovery rates than consumption rates.

On the other hand, the formation and processing of non-renewable resources, such as minerals, oil, and natural gas, take a long time. Even the usage rate of these non-renewable resources is higher as compared to the renewable resources. While some natural resources are used immediately, others must first undergo processing.

Even while renewable resources are available in huge quantities, they should also be used responsibly. Both renewable and non-renewable resources require time to be created and processed. Therefore, it is very important for humans to use these resources in a limited quantity and leave some for future generations.

With time, humans are using these resources excessively. With the ever-increasing population, humans have already created a huge impact on the environment. To begin, humans are continuously polluting the air, water and noise. Buildings are being constructed on more land. The land is becoming less valuable in this way. Humans are soon becoming the biggest reason behind depleting natural resources, such as land, water, and air. 

Therefore, we mustn’t undervalue these resources. The moment has come for us to recognise the importance of using these resources sustainably.

Related Articles

Natural Resources are substances which are naturally obtained from nature. Here are the 5 natural resources: Coal, Oil, Natural Gas, Sand, Gems, and Metals.

Renewable resources are natural resources that can be replenished or regenerated at a rate comparable to the rate at which they are consumed or harvested. For example: Solar energy, Wind energy, Biomass, Geothermal energy, etc.

Conserving and saving natural resources is essential for sustainable development and the preservation of the environment. Here are some easy tips to save natural resources: Implementing the 3Rs in daily life; Adopting energy-efficient practices such as using energy-saving appliances; Reducing water wastage by fixing leaks, using water-efficient appliances, and practising mindful water usage in daily activities, etc.

For more information on such interesting topics, visit our essay-writing page and follow Leverage Edu ! 

Malvika Chawla

Malvika is a content writer cum news freak who comes with a strong background in Journalism and has worked with renowned news websites such as News 9 and The Financial Express to name a few. When not writing, she can be found bringing life to the canvasses by painting on them.

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Essay on How to Reduce Air Pollution

Students are often asked to write an essay on How to Reduce Air Pollution in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on How to Reduce Air Pollution

Understanding air pollution.

Air pollution is harmful substances in the air. It harms our health and the environment. It’s mainly caused by human activities like burning fossil fuels.

Ways to Reduce Air Pollution

1. Use Public Transport: Using buses, trains, or carpooling reduces the number of vehicles on the road, reducing air pollution. 2. Save Energy: By turning off lights and electronics when not in use, we save energy and reduce pollution. 3. Plant Trees: Trees absorb harmful pollutants and release clean oxygen. 4. Recycle: Recycling reduces the need to burn waste, reducing air pollution.

Remember, every small action counts in fighting air pollution.

Also check:

250 Words Essay on How to Reduce Air Pollution

Understanding the gravity of air pollution, adopting sustainable transportation.

A significant contributor to air pollution is vehicular emissions. To address this, we must shift towards sustainable modes of transportation. Encouraging public transit, carpooling, biking, or walking can significantly reduce the number of vehicles on the road, thus curbing pollution. Additionally, promoting electric vehicles can help eliminate exhaust emissions.

Embracing Renewable Energy

The energy sector, particularly coal-based power plants, significantly contributes to air pollution. Transitioning to renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power can significantly reduce air pollution. These energy sources are not only sustainable but also emit no pollutants, making them an ideal replacement for fossil fuels.

Improving Waste Management

Improper waste disposal, especially burning, releases harmful pollutants into the air. Implementing effective waste management strategies, such as recycling and composting, can minimize waste burning. Additionally, promoting waste-to-energy technologies can help transform waste into useful energy while reducing pollution.

Enforcing Strict Regulations

Governmental bodies must enforce stringent air quality standards and regulations. Strict penalties for non-compliance can deter potential polluters, ensuring cleaner air.

500 Words Essay on How to Reduce Air Pollution

Introduction.

Air pollution is a pressing issue that threatens the health of our planet and its inhabitants. It is primarily caused by harmful gases and particles released into the atmosphere, mostly from human activities. Addressing this problem requires a multi-faceted approach, involving both individual and collective actions.

One of the primary sources of air pollution is vehicular emissions. As such, it is crucial to promote sustainable transportation methods. Individuals can contribute to reducing air pollution by utilizing public transport, cycling, walking, or carpooling. On a larger scale, governments and corporations can invest in infrastructure for electric vehicles and renewable fuels, which produce fewer emissions than traditional fossil fuels.

Energy Conservation and Efficiency

Energy production, particularly through burning fossil fuels, significantly contributes to air pollution. Therefore, energy conservation is an effective strategy to combat this issue. This can be achieved by using energy-efficient appliances, reducing energy usage, and promoting renewable energy sources. On an institutional level, energy producers can transition to cleaner technologies, such as wind, solar, and hydroelectric power.

Waste Management

Improper waste disposal, including open burning of waste, contributes to air pollution. Therefore, effective waste management strategies are essential. This includes recycling, composting, and reducing waste production. On a larger scale, governments can implement policies to regulate waste disposal and encourage recycling.

Legislative Actions

Governments play a crucial role in air pollution reduction by enforcing regulations that limit emissions from various sources. This includes setting stringent standards for industries and vehicles, promoting clean energy, and implementing pollution-control laws. Governments can also incentivize businesses to adopt environmentally friendly practices through tax benefits and subsidies.

Public Awareness and Education

Air pollution is a complex issue that requires a comprehensive, multi-pronged approach to address effectively. While individual actions are important, large-scale changes driven by governments and corporations are crucial. Through the combined efforts of individuals, governments, and businesses, we can work towards a future with cleaner air and a healthier planet. It is not just a matter of environmental concern but a significant health and economic issue that, if unchecked, will have far-reaching consequences for future generations. Hence, it is our collective responsibility to reduce air pollution and safeguard our planet.

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Wildlife conservation.

Wildlife conservation aims to protect plant and animal species as the human population encroaches on their resources.

Biology, Ecology, Conservation, Storytelling, Photography

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Wildlife conservation is the practice of protecting plant and animal species and their habitats . Wildlife is integral to the world’s ecosystems , providing balance and stability to nature’s processes. The goal of wildlife conservation is to ensure the survival of these species, and to educate people on living sustainably with other species. The human population has grown exponentially over the past 200 years, to more than eight billion humans as of November 2022, and it continues to rapidly grow. This means natural resources are being consumed faster than ever by the billions of people on the planet. This growth and development also endangers the habitats and existence of various types of wildlife around the world, particularly animals and plants that may be displaced for land development, or used for food or other human purposes. Other threats to wildlife include the introduction of invasive species from other parts of the world, climate change, pollution, hunting, fishing, and poaching. National and international organizations like the World Wildlife Fund, Conservation International, the Wildlife Conservation Society, the United Nations, and National Geographic, itself, work to support global animal and habitat conservation efforts on many different fronts. They work with the government to establish and protect public lands, like national parks and wildlife refuges . They help write legislation, such as the Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 1973 in the United States, to protect various species. They work with law enforcement to prosecute wildlife crimes, like wildlife trafficking and illegal hunting (poaching). They also promote biodiversity to support the growing human population while preserving existing species and habitats. National Geographic Explorers, like conservation biologist Charudutt Mishra and conservation technologist Rebecca Ryakitimbo, are working to slow the extinction of global species and to protect global biodiversity and habitats. Environmental filmmakers and photographers, like Thomas P. Peschak and Joel Sartore, are essential to conservation efforts as well, documenting and bringing attention to endangered wildlife all over the world.

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20 Ways to Prevent Indoor and Outdoor Air Pollution

Since the Industrial Revolution, people have been polluting the Earth like never before. There is rarely a place today that has not been subjected to pollutants in one form or another.

Some pollution comes in a visible form, like pieces of plastic washed up on our beaches or illegal dumpsites in groves nearby large cities, other pollution comes in a hidden and perhaps even more dangerous form, in the air we breathe daily.

Our continuous existence depends on the clean air and yet our activities are constantly releasing extremely toxic particles that contaminate our atmosphere.

Polluted air is costing us lives

The issue has become so serious that scientists attribute a large number of deaths to ever increasing effects of air pollution. In fact, polluted air kills each year more people than malaria or tuberculosis [1] . Some cities are even shut down during certain parts of the year because the air is so toxic that it is impossible to function.

Another alarming record comes from New Delhi in India, infamous for its pollution exceeding safe air quality levels by 20 times on days when thick smog wraps around the city. According to a study by the Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute, almost half of Delhi’s children develop irreversible lung damage during their childhood years [2] .

To imagine the severity of the global pollution even better, there is an animal in the remote Arctic whose body contains one of the highest level of pollutants of any organism on this planet. The word is about a polar bear who is due to the global distillation effect exposed to anthropologically created pollution even in the most remote corner of the planet.

Although increasing number of countries enforce stricter regulations to prevent further emissions of air pollutants, there is still a lot to do on an individual level.

The key to have a healthier life is to adopt measures that do not pollute air so much because we all have a role to play when it comes to creating healthy environment for living.

Simple ways to reduce outdoor air pollution

Being aware and changing our habits is the only way to reversing negative actions we have adopted in our modern lifestyles. Even though some initiative needs to be taken by authorities, individual habits still can make a big impact. If not globally, they will make impact locally – directly in the environment where you live.

The following list will help you get started with the transition to improving the quality of your life by addressing the problem of air pollution and learning about ways of reducing it.

#1 Minimize air pollution from cars

Road transportation is one of the biggest emitters of nitrogen oxides. Oxides of nitrogen are closely monitored air pollutants with an adverse effect on the healthy lung development and the overall lifetime expectancy.

The problem of harmful emissions from cars can be felt especially in cities with heavy traffic. Personal diesel cars and smaller vans top the list of the dirtiest polluters in such instances.

As a driver you can help reduce the pollution from your car by sticking to a few of simple rules.

• When you are out for a drive, do not idle your vehicle.
• Drive less by combining trips, telecommuting, carpooling, or carsharing. A great idea is to bring your lunch to work, so you do not have to drive out during the lunch break, or agree with your co-workers on going to get lunch together.
• Do not speed up or drive aggressively because that only produces more emissions.
• If possible avoid driving out during rush hours.
• When you are in the market to buy a new vehicle, consider buying a car that has done well on emission tests. In general, newer models have better fuel economy than older models because they are developed with the latest technologies.
• Go away from diesel cars. Diesel cars emit more nitrogen oxides than petrol cars. That’s why some of the largest European cities have banned or are preparing to ban older diesel cars from their downtown .
• If you want to choose the cleanest option, look into hybrid or all-electric cars. These cars should have a smaller ecological footprint than conventional cars do. Although it is important to realize that there are still some emissions involved. These are emissions from power plants that supply the electricity to power your e-drive.
• Be sure to keep your car tuned and regularly replace air filters at recommended intervals.
• Even something so easily overlooked as keeping your tires properly inflated plays a role in the amount of gases your car will emit. When the tires are not properly inflated, your car needs to burn more fuel and therefore pollutes the environment on a larger scale.

By following this advice you will definitely help reducing air pollution caused by cars, but you should still be aware that any car with an exhaust pipe will emit some amounts of nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide into the air. Therefore, the most effective strategy to keep the air clean is to avoid driving your car when possible .

#2 Walk, bike or use public transportation to reduce air pollution

When you have the option, take public transportation to get to work. Many cities have already invested in a good public transportation network and by choosing public transportation (even just one or two days a week) you are helping to reduce the number of cars on the road.

Many municipalities also offer great benefits to encourage people to use their public transportation. Some commonly applied advantages are cheap long-term fares, shorter times to reach your destination, short waiting times, punctuality, and fares for free at certain hours, weekends or for seniors and students.

For example, the city of Vienna, Austrian capital, offers a yearly ticket to their extensive public transportation network for only 1 Euro a day (that is USD 1.14). This means that as a holder of the yearly card you can travel as much as you want in one day for just 1 Euro. Isn’t that wonderful?

*And a little insider tip: Your pup can travel with you for free when you have this card… 😉

Or German city Stuttgart lets students travel for free on weekends and after 6 pm every day.

Additional benefit to consider is that many cities place emphasis on lowering carbon emissions of their public transportation means. They invest in electric buses and other modern vehicles that enable them to do so. The website of the abundantly used public transportation in Vienna mentions that every person who switches to public transportation prevents 1,500 kg of carbon dioxide from being released into the air each year [3] .

Walking or riding a bike to get to work comes with numerous benefits for your wellbeing. You can take less frequent roads and backstreets to arrive to work sooner and less stressed than you would be if stuck in traffic. Both of these activities also contribute to maintaining active lifestyle and improving your self-confidence and health.

However, when biking or walking you should take into consideration the level of already existent air pollution along your route. If you cannot avoid too busy roads, it’s better to stick with public transportation because on bike you would directly breathe all the emissions produced by the heavy traffic.

#3 Save energy and make sure you use energy efficiently

In 2016, the International Energy Agency released a report with the key statement that “air pollution is an energy problem.”

Similar concept repeats in other scientific papers. For example, the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health published a study that lists a myriad of health problems arising from the air contamination due to the combustion of fossil fuels.

Burning of fossil fuels for energy production releases potent pollutants such as:

• Sulphur dioxide
• Nitrogen oxide
• Black carbon
• Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons
• Carbon dioxide
• Particulate matter [4]

All of these substances are known to have negative impacts on human health and the environment.

That is why being mindful about your energy consumption matters . Decreasing your energy need will not only save you money on utility bills but more importantly will benefit your health in the long-term.

When you save energy, whether it is at home, at work, or while you are traveling, you are reducing production of many polluting substances as well as carbon emissions that make the air dirty and cause global warming.

Some effective strategies to lower your energy consumption to set you on the right track are:

• Increase energy efficiency of your home Make sure you use energy efficiently. For a detailed information on energy efficiency, check our article on 10 Tips on How to Improve Energy Efficiency at Home .
• M inimize the use of air conditioners Use air conditioners in the summer only when absolutely necessary. Air conditioners need much more power than fans do. Give a try to strategically placed fans and open windows at night to cool down your room.
• Use appliances smartly Run your dishwasher and washing machine only when full and if possible at night. When running these appliances outside the peak hours, it is more likely that the biggest (and the most polluting) power plants won’t work because the demand for power is lower and can be covered from smaller power plants that often use newer technologies.
• Switch to renewable energy Renewables are much cleaner version of power generation. The technology has made such a great progress that there are many affordable options and programs available for the residential use of renewable energy nowadays. For example, photovoltaic solar panels produce energy without emitting gases. So, if you switched to solar energy, you would lower your personal amount of emissions significantly – the exact number depends on how much of your total energy demand would be covered entirely from solar power.

#4 Take a good care of your wood stove or fireplace

If you own a wood burning stove or a fireplace, be sure to keep it well-maintained. When burning fire-wood in wood stoves, incomplete combustion often releases particulate matter of a very small size (less than 2.5 micrometer). These tiny particles are the most harmful to our respiratory tracts because they can easily get deep into our lungs, and for their small size may even enter our bloodstream.

Other noxious gases released from fireplaces and wood stoves are:

• Carbon monoxide
• Nitrogen oxides [5]

What amount of emissions your stove produces depends on:

• The efficiency of the wood stove

Newer models are usually more efficient than older, improperly maintained models. Old wood stoves from 80s release three to six times more particulate air pollutants than newer stoves [5] . This is due to lower burning temperature and insufficient aeration.

You should also preferably have the stove (fireplace) installed by a professional with a necessary certification. This ensures that your stove will perform with the best efficiency and at the lowest risk of unwanted accidents.

• The type and the condition of fuel you are burning

Dry firewood burns better than humid wood. It will thus emit less air pollutants. Also make sure you don’t burn wood with paint, glue or other coating because it could release additional toxins into the air.

Pellets made of compacted sawdust and wood waste are a less polluting and more heat-producing alternative to wood.

#5 Recycle and buy recycled products

Imagine all complex processes needed to create new items from scratch. You need to begin with mining for raw materials. Mined materials then need to be transported, cleaned from impurities, processed and treated until they can finally be transformed into desired products.

Each stage of the manufacture from raw materials is accompanied by emissions of polluting particles, heavy metals, chemicals and greenhouse gases.

It also takes more energy to make new items from raw materials, increasing the environmental footprint (including the air pollution that is produced) of those products, compared with those products that are made from recycled materials.

Since recycled products have already been extracted and processed once, manufacturing the same products the second time is much less-energy intensive and polluting.

#6 Consume less and choose sustainable products

A 2017 study published in the International Journal of Science highlighted that 22 percent of premature deaths caused by air pollution happened in countries that produce (cheap) goods for export to developed countries [6] .

European and North American love of cheaper gadgets from China actually killed more than 100,000 people in Chinese towns where factories manufacturing many of our favorite products are located [6] .

Higher levels of environmental pollution in these regions are often due to weak or lacking emission restrictions in place (which is also why these goods can be produced at a lower cost), but the air they are polluting is still part of the same air you are and will be breathing for as long as you are on this planet.

So, our consumption patterns affect pollution levels globally. Even if you haven’t ever traveled to China, your choice of products in your local supermarket will decide whether you encourage polluting businesses abroad.

Consuming less and thinking twice before buying new item is the best you can do for the environment and the air quality. If you need to buy new products, whatever they are, support local companies that are committed to sustainable manufacturing practices and reducing pollution in the air.

#7 Eat local and organic produce & eat less meat

In countries with intensively farmed lands, agriculture is the main emitter of ammonia and other nitrogen-containing compounds like nitrous oxide or nitric oxide. Livestock farming also emits high concentrations of methane, a potent greenhouse gas, and non-methane volatile organic compounds.

Agricultural pesticides and fertilizers release Persistent Organic Pollutants, such as hexachlorobenzene, hexachlorocyclohexane and pentachlorophenol in the air [7] . Those names don’t sound that good, do they? Now, consider that the air you breathe may contains also these compounds with their complex names. There is nothing natural about that…

A study by the Earth Institute of Columbia University warns over health-damaging effects of gases emitted from conventional agriculture in combination with industrial emissions. The research says that when these pollutants combine together, they form fine particles that easily damage our respiratory system, leading to chronic health problems [8] .

Organic agriculture is not entirely emission-free as well, but the amounts of many pollutants are lower.

This is due to a number of reasons:

• Nitrogen input to organic soils is lower, so even nitrogen compounds escaping into the air decrease.
• Sustainable soil conservation practices such as no-tilling, green manuring and crop rotation help preserve nutrients in soils where they are utilized by plants instead of being lost into the environment as often happens in heavily tilled crops.
• Healthy, well-aerated soils with good microbial activity have improved methane uptake.

If possible, consider buying organically-grown produce over the conventional one, and look for local products because this way you cut down emissions from transportation and energy needed to get the food on your plate.

A very important step to take in regard to your consumption pattern is to eat less meat . You may have heard already about the significant greenhouse gas footprint of the modern livestock industry. By going meatless some days a week or eating maximum 90 grams of meat a day, you will lower air pollution and will even benefit your health (and wallet – since plant-based diet is cheaper).

#8 Grow your own food and eat seasonal products

It is easy to get produce from all over the world these days. Just a quick trip to supermarket opens up a world of a great variety of exotic fruits, vegetables and spices. Although, having such a great diversity is wonderful, it always comes with a cost – in this case the cost of polluting the air we breathe by long-distance transportation.

Just think about it. Bananas imported from Costa Rica, Guatemala, Honduras or other exotic destinations. Kiwis from Italy, Chile, New Zealand… Mangoes brought from Thailand, Philippines, India or Pakistan. These favorite fruits have to travel really long distances to make it to your supermarket.

One easy and fun way to make sure you have a nutrient-rich diet, which even helps offset some of the harmful emissions of the food industry, is to grow your own food. This way you will have direct access to fresh produce of your preference, and you will even be sure that what you eat is chemical-free.

If you are unable to grow fruits and vegetables due to time and/or space limitations, stick to the rule of eating mostly seasonal products that are native to your area. The reason for this is very simple – when in season, products will be more likely sourced from regional farmers.

#9 Plant trees

Trees around your house and in your neighborhood help reduce air pollutants significantly. Researchers from the University of Southampton measured the ability of trees in London to remove particulate pollutants from the air. Their findings were truly astonishing. Trees remove between 850 to 2,000 tons of harmful particles from the urban air each year [9] .

Except of removing the particulate matter, trees also decrease levels of nitrogen dioxide, sulphur dioxide, carbon dioxide and monoxide, ozone, benzene and dioxin.

Some of the most efficient tree “air cleaners” are large-growing species with leaves. For example, common ash, ginkgo biloba, oak, various linden trees and elms [10] .

Trees planted alongside roads or on the boundaries of your property also slow down polluted air from being carried far by wind. You can think of it as a protective shield formed by tree canopy. This way trees prevent spreading of air pollution over large distances. Then, they gradually filter the pollution at the spot without giving it much chances of contaminating neighboring areas.

But trees are not only natural air filters, they also cool down summer temperatures by a few degrees. Even the slightest temperature reduction can make a real difference in keeping the air clean, because many compounds and ground-level-ozone-forming chemicals are temperature dependent [11] . This means that they transform into pollutants only when outdoor temperature reaches certain level.

Additionally, cooler temperatures are more comfortable for our wellbeing, which makes trees a great substitute for energy demanding air conditioners.

#10 Raise awareness and become interested in local matters

Awareness-raising can be the first step to increase the knowledge of people around you and start the change in their attitudes towards mitigating the problem of poor air quality in affected areas.

As you can see most of these ways on dealing with air pollution are rooted in the consumer behavior. Often, all it takes is just being a little bit more aware of the impact of your personal decisions as a consumer on the air quality–even so far from you as on a different continent.

By making conscious consumer choices, your initiative can serve as a good example to your friends, family and community. This way you can become one of the initiators of a bigger change in your area.

Equally important is to express your support to public policies and representative politicians who work to protect the air and the environment. If you care about the quality of life in the place you call home, it is necessary to stay informed and take supportive actions for good causes.

Preventive measures of indoor air pollution: How to clean the air in your home?

When we think of air pollution, most of us think of poor outdoor air quality. However, did you know that indoor air is on average two to five times more polluted than outdoor air? This happens because the air circulation indoors is much lower than outdoors, which allows toxins from dust particles, vapors from cooking, painting or furniture dyes to accumulate inside our houses.

And since most of us spend so much time indoors, we are at a higher risk of developing health issues from the toxic indoor air . In fact, the World Health Organization estimates that 30 percent of global diseases are a result of indoor air pollution [12] .

For example, one of the most common indoor pollutants is formaldehyde. Sources of formaldehyde are everywhere around us. It can be found in furniture, insulation, textiles, wallpapers, glues, detergents, softeners, disinfectants, cosmetic products and even in electronics [13] . But did you also know that increased concentrations of formaldehyde cause irritations, asthma and eczema?!

It’s time to become more cautious about what pollutants you introduce to your life. And since you have already learned how to help reduce outdoor air pollution, it is time to have a look at some preventative measures that will teach you how to improve air quality in your home and office.

#1 Keep air purifying indoor plants

Very elegant solution to improving air indoors, that would also have a beneficial effect on our health, is keeping houseplants.

Many houseplants have the same ability as trees to metabolize air pollutants from indoor spaces as well as refresh air by removing carbon dioxide and replenishing oxygen levels. Plants with large leaves that originate from tropics and rainforests are especially effective in doing so.

Some examples of the best houseplants for cleaning indoor air are:

• Spider Plants
• Peace Lilies
• Snake Plants (“Mother-in-Law’s Tongue”)
• Elephant Ears
• Weeping Figs
• Rubber Plants
• Bamboo Palms
• Heartleaf Philodendron

Common indoor toxins these plants can absorb include compounds such as formaldehyde, xylene, benzene, trichloroethylene, toluene, octane and carbon monoxide [14] .

Can there be any easier solution how to get better air quality in your home than surrounding yourself by pretty flowers?

#2 Open your windows

Opening your windows fully at least once a day for three to five minutes can replace stagnant and polluted indoor air with fresh air from outside.

It is important to let the air in your house circulate even for short periods of time because this way you let accumulated toxins out and decrease humidity that gathers from many indoor activities like cooking, doing laundry or taking a steamy shower.

One of the common issues of well-insulated houses is that indoor-outdoor air exchange is entirely disabled. While this is a desired effect when it comes to preserving heat and energy, it is not the best for maintaining healthy air quality inside. If that’s the case, the stagnant air in your house needs to be refreshed once a while by opening windows to create a little draft.

Do not forget to open your windows to ventilate a room if you must use any volatile chemicals, such as those found in paint strippers and paints. Better yet, look for low- or no-VOC products to avoid being exposed to the toxic fumes from these products in the first place.

#3 Use natural products and non-toxic cleaners

When purchasing household products for your home and your yard, opt for the cleanest and greenest products that don’t contain any harmful polluting chemicals.

The majority of the air fresheners, detergents, paints, and cleaners on the market contain toxic substances, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), that easily vaporize into indoor air.

VOCs represent a variety of chemicals derived from petroleum, for example, formaldehyde, benzene, perchloroethylene and chlorofluorocarbons.

These chemicals not only pollute indoor air, they can be detrimental to your and your pets’ health. Some symptoms include irritations, nausea, dizziness, asthma, liver and kidney failures, central nervous system damage and cancer [15] .

To minimize your exposure to these chemicals, choose products that have been made with natural substances, and do not produce harmful fumes.

When seeking out natural products, resources such as the Environmental Working Group’s Guide to Healthy Cleaning and the United States Environmental Protection Agency Safer Choice page are great places to learn about the product safety.   A few great tips to stick to:

• Opt for no-VOC or low-VOC paints, stains, finishes, paint strippers, and glues. Paint with a brush rather than spray.
• Instead of using chemical-filled air fresheners, use essential oils, herbs and flowers to make your home smell nice.
• Use green cleaning products instead of conventional chemical-filled products.
• Use perfumes moderately or not at all. Perfumes consist of a number of synthetic chemicals that when being sprayed in the air break down into harmful compounds. You can learn more here .

#4 Use essential oils

Essential oils are potent plant extracts that can be used for many purposes, including cleaning, purifying and freshening indoor air. They also offer an eco-friendly, healthy, and often more effective alternative to many chemical and synthetic products.

Using high quality essential oils in a diffuser will not only produce a nice scent throughout a room, you will also gain many health benefits from the complex natural compounds that the essential oils contain. For example, lavender oil with eucalyptus oil have calming properties; peppermint and chamomile oils are good for digestion and relieving symptoms of cold; rosemary oil improves concentration and memory.

You can also use essential oils to make your own homemade cleaning products and personal care products. Some favorite oils that have been used for skin and hair are rose, cedarwood, thyme or clary sage oils.

For purposes of purity, safety, and to experience the most benefits, be sure to use only therapeutic grade essential oils from a reputable company.

#5 Test your home for radon

Radon is an invisible, odorless and radioactive gas that naturally seeps up from the soil and bedrock of the Earth. It is one of the products of the radioactive decay of uranium, which can be found naturally in all rocks on this planet.

Most houses draw less than one percent of their indoor air from subjacent soils, but when your house is built on a highly permeable soil and foundations are not properly sealed, more than 10 percent of indoor air can come from the ground. This can lead to increased radon accumulation in the indoor air, even though its concentration in the soil is within safe limits.

It is good to know that radon can also seep from some building materials, such as granite countertops, alum shale concrete or volcanic tuff [13] .

Radon is after smoking the second most frequent cause of lung cancer [13] , so it is important to have your home tested for it. The testing procedure is very simple and inexpensive.

When radon levels in your house are above limits, some mitigation strategies for reducing its concentration need to be applied. One reliable technique is ‘ Active soil depressurization , ‘which draws radon from beneath the foundation and emits it outside.

#6 Do not smoke indoors

Do not smoke inside your home. Cigarette smoke contains up to 70 carcinogenic substances and toxins that remain in the indoor air for a long time.

Passive exposure to the cigarette smoke can also cause serious health problems to other family members and pets.

Some of the health deteriorating compounds found in smoke include lead, arsenic, ammonia, carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide. By smoking in a confined space, the level of these compounds quickly exceeds safe limits without you even realizing the danger associated with inhaling them.

For example, nitrogen dioxide contributes to seemingly unrelated health problems such as ear infections and development of food allergies in children.

#7 Keep indoor humidity low

We do many activities at home that make rooms damp. But did you know that in humid environments hundreds of different bacteria species, fungi and molds thrive? And that breathing their spores affects the health of your skin and respiratory tract?

Keep your home dry to prevent mold and mildew from proliferating. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommends keeping an indoor humidity level of 30 to 60 percent.

You can do this by opening windows to exchange air inside your house. Remember that stagnant air retains all the moisture from your activities, so you should allow proper air movement by creating a draft inside at least once a day.

Use exhaust hoods or fans to reduce the level of moisture that can travel throughout the air when you cook or take shower. When showering, keep the bathroom door closed to not let excess humidity out. Rather leave the fan remove the moisture after you finish the shower.

Also, when possible dry your clothes outside.

If necessary, use a dehumidifier to reduce the humidity level of your home. If anything else have failed, this could be the solution to your problem with high humidity.

#8 Vacuum clean with a HEPA filter

It may sound surprising, but some vacuum cleaners actually contribute to indoor air pollution.

Yes, that’s right.

Vacuum cleaners without a proper filter, that would allow small particles escape back into the air, only worsen home air quality by stirring and redistributing pollutants.

To be sure you are not causing more harm when cleaning your house, use a vacuum cleaner that has a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) or ULPA (Ultra Low Penetration Air) filter.

HEPA filters should be able to capture 99.7 percent of particles as small as 0.3 micrometers. ULPA filters perform even better by retaining 99.9 percent of particles of 0.12 micrometers in size [16] .

The design and cleaning efficiency are also important criteria. No HEPA filter will perform as promised if the vacuum cleaner is not properly sealed. Only well-sealed vacuum cleaners direct all collected particles to pass through the filter.

When looking for a new vacuum cleaner, make sure that it contains the real HEPA filter and not something labelled misleadingly as “HEPA-like” or “HEPA-type” filters. Beware of this marketing trick to confuse customers, as these types of filters might not comply with the standards of removing the most harmful particles.

#9 Keep your home dust free

Do you know where dust comes from and how come it always reappears in your home?

According to researchers, most household dust is a mixture of organic matter and particulate matter from outdoor air, which is brought inside every time you, other family members or your pets come from the outside [17] .

What should you imagine under this label?

Well, let’s see… It includes tiny particles like dead skin cells, pet dander, microscopic soil particles from your shoes, decomposing organic materials, microfibers from clothing, bacteria, molds, and dust mites.

Scientists have also found traces of many chemicals in common household dust. These chemicals usually originate from cleaning products, plastic items, paints, oil, cosmetics, pesticides or other products commonly used at home.

No one can write down a precise list of compounds contained in dust since they differ based on the area where you live, your lifestyle and your household, but every time you walk across a room, your kids play, pets run around, dust gets suspended into the air, from where it can be easily inhaled by you and your children.

You cannot prevent dust from entering your house, but you can minimize chances of your exposure to it by regular cleaning. Vacuum cleaners with HEPA filter should help in retaining most of the harmful particles (read the previous section to learn more about them).

Do not forget to clean your heating and air conditioning filters, ducts, and vents regularly as well. It will reduce particles accumulated over the time from re-circulating throughout the air in your home.

#10 Use air purifiers with HEPA filter

If you live in an area with poor outdoor air quality, it’s worth considering the use of air purifier at home. On critical days when authorities issue health warning, you should keep your windows closed and use air purifier to minimize the risk of breathing polluted air.

For example , a two-year study in Salt Lake City , which chokes under a thick blanket of smog on cold winter days when inversion hits in, has found out that air purifiers with HEPA filters reduced fine-particulate matter (PM2.5) in observed households by 55 percent.

Similar results were confirmed by other studies, coming to a conclusion that at least 50 percent of particulate matter can be removed by a high-efficiency air filtration system [19] .

Most modern air purifiers work with a multilayer filter system, consisting of a prefilter, a carbon filter, an antibacterial filter and a HEPA filter [19] . You can even find some ENERGY STAR purifiers on the market that offer better energy efficiency.

So, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Final words

Do not take the quality of the air you breathe every day lightly. It is easy to overlook your own health when other daily chores demand your immediate attention. But do not forget that throughout one day around 10,000 liters of air enter your lungs and take part of the most important metabolic processes in your body [18] .

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Greentumble was founded in the summer of 2015 by us, Sara and Ovi . We are a couple of environmentalists who seek inspiration for life in simple values based on our love for nature. Our goal is to inspire people to change their attitudes and behaviors toward a more sustainable life. Read more about us .

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Journal of Materials Chemistry C

Assembling 1d double-shell ppy@air@mno2 nanotube with enhanced microwave absorption performance.

One-dimensional (1D) core-shell heterostructures with uniquely abundant interfacial polarization are ideal candidates for the high-performance electromagnetic (EM) materials. However, designing new 1D core-shell architectures for enhanced microwave absorption (MA) properties remains a significant challenge. Herein, a series of polypyrrole(PPy)@MnO2 1D tubular structures have been prepared using a facile solvothermal method enabling precise control over the specific morphologies of the 1D heterostructure and revealing tunable tailoring of the microstructure. Especially, a novel hollow double-shell PPy@Air@MnO2 compound, featuring a PPy inner shell and a MnO2 outer shell, was successfully synthesized. This unique double-shell configuration exhibits a higher absorption efficiency of heterogeneous interfaces than the single-wall PPy@MnO2, significantly improving the attenuation ability of absorbing EM wave. The local polarized electric field in numerous microdomains along the axial direction of the 1D tube was confirmed, further enhancing interface polarization loss capability. Therefore, the synthesized materials exhibit excellent microwave absorption (MA) performance, with the maximum reflection loss of −52.49 dB at a thickness of 2.94 mm and a broad absorption bandwidth of 3.84 GHz are achieved. These promising results have implications for expanding the application of the 1D heterostructures for EM devices.

• This article is part of the themed collections: Journal of Materials Chemistry C HOT Papers and Advanced Functional Inorganic Materials for Information Technology and Applications

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L. Yang, M. Liu, G. Liang, X. Xiong, W. You, H. Cheng and R. Che, J. Mater. Chem. C , 2024, Accepted Manuscript , DOI: 10.1039/D4TC02748E

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Guest Essay

A Dystopian Effort Is Underway in the Pacific Northwest to Pick Ecological Winners and Losers

By Avram Hiller Jay Odenbaugh and Yasha Rohwer

The authors teach philosophy at universities in Oregon.

Very soon, the federal government may authorize the killing of nearly a half-million barred owls in the Pacific Northwest in a desperate bid to save the northern spotted owl. The killing could go on for decades.

As philosophers in Oregon whose work focuses on scientific and ethical issues regarding animals and the environment, we believe that the reasons given for this mass slaughter are deeply problematic. More broadly, this attempt to pick ecological winners and losers in a rapidly changing world shows how ill equipped the Endangered Species Act is to protect rare and important ecosystems.

Barred and spotted owls are related species that probably diverged about seven million years ago . Barred owls, which are considered native to the eastern United States, are increasingly appearing in the Pacific Northwest’s old-growth forests where the threatened northern spotted owls breed and live. Where the two birds overlap, the barred owls tend to outcompete the northern spotted owls, taking the best nest sites and harassing, killing or occasionally mating with spotted owls.

In the 1980s, the northern spotted owl became the centerpiece of a bitter controversy over the logging of old-growth forests, which it depends on for its survival. By 1990, its numbers had dwindled to the point that the federal government classified the bird as “threatened,” which led to sharp limits on logging in its territory. Nonetheless, its numbers have continued to decline because of the ongoing loss of its habitat — and the competition with the barred owl.

After a period of experimentation and debate, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, which oversees the Endangered Species Act, has concluded that it must protect spotted owls by permitting federal, state and tribal governmental agencies, private companies and individuals to shoot 470,900 barred owls over the next 30 years. The killings could begin soon.

Although the agency refers to barred owls as “invasive” on the West Coast — meaning they have moved into new territory where they are threatening native species — it isn’t even clear that barred owls are unnatural interlopers. Barred owls are thought to have migrated from the eastern United States through the Great Plains and southern Canada, eventually making their way to British Columbia and then on to Washington, Oregon and California. As this story goes, the barred owls’ arrival is a recent event.

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• Air Pollution Essay

Essay on Air Pollution

Environmental changes are caused by the natural or artificial content of harmful pollutants and can cause instability, disturbance, or adverse effects on the ecosystem. Earth and its environment pose a more serious threat due to the increasing pollution of air, water, and soil. Environmental damage is caused by improper resource management or careless human activities. Therefore, any activity that violates the original nature of the environment and leads to degradation is called pollution. We need to understand the origin of these pollutants and find ways to control pollution. This can also be done by raising awareness of the effects of pollutants.

Air pollution is any physical, chemical, or biological change in the air. A certain percentage of the gas is present in the atmosphere. Increasing or decreasing the composition of these gasses is detrimental to survival. This imbalance in gas composition causes an increase in global temperature which is called global warming.

Introduction to air pollution 

The Earth and its environment are facing a serious threat by the increasing pollution of the air, water, and soil—the vital life support systems of the Earth. The damage to the environment is caused by improper management of resources or by careless human activity. Hence any activity that violates the original character of nature and leads to its degradation is called pollution. We need to understand the sources of these pollutants and find ways to control pollution. This can be also done by making people aware of the effects of pollutants. 

Air with 78% Nitrogen, 21% Oxygen, and 1% of all other gasses support life on Earth. Various processes take place to sustain the regular percentage of gasses and their composition in general. 

Atmospheric pollution can have natural sources, for example, volcanic eruptions. The gaseous by-products of man-made processes such as energy production, waste incineration, transport, deforestation and agriculture, are the major air pollutants.

Although air is made up of mostly Oxygen and Nitrogen, mankind, through pollution, has increased the levels of many trace gasses, and in some cases, released completely new gasses to the atmosphere. 

Air pollution can result in poor air quality, both in cities and in the countryside. Some air pollutants make people sick, causing breathing problems and increasing the likelihood of cancer. 

Some air pollutants are harmful to plants, animals, and the ecosystems in which they live. Statues, monuments, and buildings are being corroded by the air pollutants in the form of acid rain. It also damages crops and forests, and makes lakes and streams unsuitable for fish and other plant and animal life. 

Air pollution created by man-made resources is also changing the Earth’s atmosphere. It is causing the depletion of the ozone layer and letting in more harmful radiation from the Sun. The greenhouse gasses released into the atmosphere prevents heat from escaping back into space and leads to a rise in global average temperatures. Global warming affects the average sea-level and increases the spread of tropical diseases.

Air pollution occurs when large amounts of gas and tiny particles are released into the air and the ecological balance is disturbed. Each year millions of tons of gasses and particulate matter are emitted into the air. 

Primary air pollutants are pollutants, which are directly released into the air. They are called SPM, i.e., Suspended Particulate Matter. For example, smoke, dust, ash, sulfur oxide, nitrogen oxide, and radioactive compounds, etc.

Secondary Pollutants are pollutants, which are formed due to chemical interactions between the atmospheric components and primary pollutants. For example, Smog (i.e. Smoke and fog), ozone, etc.

Major gaseous air pollutants include Carbon Dioxide, Hydrogen Sulfide, Sulfur Dioxide and Nitrogen Oxide, etc.

Natural sources are volcanic eruptions, forest fires, dust storms, etc. 

Man-made sources include gasses released from the automobiles, industries, burning of garbage and bricks kilns, etc.

Effects of Air Pollution on Human Health

Air pollution has adverse effects on human health. 

Breathing polluted air puts you at higher risk of asthma.

When exposed to ground ozone for 6 to 7 hours, people suffer from respiratory inflammation.

Damages the immune system, endocrine, and reproductive systems.

A high level of air pollution has been associated with higher incidents of heart problems.

The toxic chemicals released into the air are affecting the flora and fauna immensely.

Preventive Measures to Reduce Air Pollution

We can prevent pollution by utilizing raw materials, water energy, and other resources more efficiently. When less harmful substances are substituted for hazardous ones, and when toxic substances are eliminated from the production process, human health can be protected and economic wellbeing can be strengthened. 

There are several measures that can be adopted by people to reduce pollution and to save the environment.

Carpooling.

Promotion of public transport.

No smoking zone.

Restricted use of fossil fuels.

Saving energy.

Encouraging organic farming.

The government has put restrictions on the amount of fossil fuels that can be used as well as restrictions on how much carbon dioxide and other pollutants can be emitted. Although the government is attempting to save our environment from these harmful gasses, it is not sufficient. We as a society need to keep the environment clean by controlling the pollution of air.

FAQs on Air Pollution Essay

1. State the Causes of Air Pollution ?

The following are the causes of air pollution.

Vehicular pollution consisting of Carbon Monoxide causes pollution.

Emission of Nitrogen oxide by a large number of supersonic transport airplanes causes deterioration of the Ozone layer and also causes serious damage to the flora and fauna.

The release of Chlorofluorocarbons into the Stratosphere causes depletion of Ozone, which is a serious concern to animals, microscopic, and aquatic organisms.

Burning garbage causes smoke, which pollutes the atmosphere. This smoke contains harmful gases such as Carbon dioxide and Nitrogen oxides.

In India, brick kilns are used for many purposes and coal is used to burn the bricks. They give out huge quantities of Carbon dioxide and particulate matter such as smoke, dust that are very harmful to people working there and the areas surrounding it. 

Many cleansing agents release poisonous gases such as Ammonia and Chlorine into the atmosphere. 

Radioactive elements emit harmful rays into the air.

Decomposed animals and plants emit Methane and Ammonia gas into the air.

2. What Does Global Warming Mean?

Global warming is the gradual rising average temperature of the Earth's atmosphere due to the concentration of methane in certain toxic gasses such as carbon dioxide. This has a major impact on the world climate. The world is warming. The land and the sea are now warmer than they were at the beginning and temperatures are still rising. This rise in temperature is, in short, global warming. This temperature rise is man-made. The burning of fossil fuels releases greenhouse gasses into the atmosphere which capture solar heat and raise surface and air temperatures.

3. Name the Alternative Modes of Transport. In What Way Does it Help to Reduce Air Pollution?

Public transport could be an alternative mode of transport. Public transport like trains, buses and trams, can relieve traffic congestion and reduce air pollution from road transport. The use of public transport must be encouraged in order to develop a sustainable transport policy.

4. Mention other means of transportation! How can I help reduce air pollution?

Public transportation can be another mode of transportation. Public transport such as trains, buses and trams can reduce traffic congestion and reduce air pollution from road transport. The use of public transport and to develop sustainable transport policies should be encouraged. While one passenger vehicle has the convenience factor, other modes of transportation reduce travel costs, spend less time, reduce stress, improve health, and reduce energy consumption and parking. Other trips for work include walking/cycling, public transport, hybrid travel and transport.

5. What are the effects of pollution?

Excessive air pollution can increase the risk of heart attack, wheezing, coughing and difficulty breathing, as well as irritation of the eyes, nose and throat. Air pollution can also cause heart problems, asthma, and other lung problems. Due to the emission of greenhouse gases, the composition of the air in the air is disturbed. This causes an increase in global temperature. The damaging ozone layer due to air pollution does not prevent harmful ultraviolet rays from the sun, which cause skin and eye problems in individuals. Air pollution has caused a number of respiratory and heart diseases among people. The incidence of lung cancer has increased in recent decades. Children living in contaminated areas are more likely to develop pneumonia and asthma. Many people die every year due to the direct or indirect effects of air pollution. When burning fossil fuels, harmful gases such as nitrogen oxides and sulfur oxides are released into the air. Water droplets combine with these pollutants and become acidic and fall as acid rain, which harms human, animal and plant life.

6. What is the solution to air pollution?

Production of renewable fuels and clean energy. The basic solution to air pollution is to get away from fossil fuels and replace them with other energies such as solar, wind and geothermal. The government limits the amount of fossil fuel that can be used and how much carbon dioxide and other pollutants it can emit. While the government is trying to save our environment from this harmful gas, it is not enough. We as a society need to keep the environment clean by controlling air pollution. To more in detail about air pollution and its causes. To learn more about air pollution and its impact on the environment, visit the Vedantu website.

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A remarkable migration captures the attention of scientists, reporter alike

SAN LUIS VALLEY, ALAMOSA COUNTY — The sun was not up yet, but Rob Sparks and Colin Woolley were changing into their waders and rubber boots before heading on a short hike on a recent summer morning.

Just downstream of Zapata Falls, they started to assemble their research setup.

Lit only by their red headlamps and a thin moon, they used a pulley mechanism, like sailors hoisting a sail, to lift a special net. This mist net, which held several horizontal rows of pouches, hung from 21-foot metal poles that span the width of the rocky canyon.

The scientists were looking for one of the most cryptic birds in the American continent: the black swift.

A shared migration path

I was initially interested in this story when I learned I shared the same migration path as some black swifts. 

I grew up in Bolivia, a landlocked country bound on its southwestern border by the Andes Mountains. Two-thirds of its land is in the Amazon basin that extends into Brazil (where I also lived for a brief period) and other countries .

After I turned 18, I moved to the U.S. and spent some years in Chicago; Ames, Iowa; and some other cities before I decided to move to Fort Collins. Of all the places I’d visited in the country, the Centennial state was the one that felt the most like home.

The black swift — which weighs about the same as a golf ball and is small enough to fit in your hand — breeds in the western U.S. and Canada, where it nests in mountainous areas close to waterfalls.

For a long time, researchers didn’t know where black swifts migrated to.

Sparks, a senior spatial ecologist at the Bird Conservancy of the Rockies, said the black swift "was one of the last bird species, if not the last" to have a migration path unknown to researchers. Until recently, that is. 

‘An incredible behavior’

In 2012, Sparks co-authored a study published in The Wilson Journal of Ornithology where for the first time, they showed three Northern black swifts that traveled from Colorado to the Amazon rainforest.

They proved this by putting a miniature, 1.5-gram backpack with a geolocator on the birds to collect data on their journey.

A decade later, as technology improved and devices shrank even further, Woolley, a biologist and banding manager at the conservancy, and Sparks were able to fit in an accelerometer to measure wing activity, which could tell them when the bird was flying and when it was stationary.

In their 2022 paper , they showed that black swifts remain in the air flying nonstop during migration and throughout their nonbreeding period.

“So they're not landing for six to eight months," Sparks said. "They're just flying over the Amazon, and that is an incredible behavior. It's just fascinating to think that birds could just be in the air for that long.”

In that study, the scientists also discovered a new behavior: Black swifts increased their altitude during a full moon and then went down during a new moon. 

Their theory? The birds used the moonlight to look for food.

“It’s kind of analogous to ocean life where there’s a lot of seabirds and some sea mammals that forage during moonlight,” Sparks said.

Record-breaking weather extremes

The night before the first fieldwork day, we reviewed the logistics for the following morning. Occasionally, Sparks and Woolley were distracted by birds flying over us at the campground; I was surprised at their ability to tell which species they were but also how many there were — all from a quick glimpse at the sky.

In between bird interruptions, we watched the sun falling across the valley and discussed the latest updates on the Alexander Mountain Fire, which broke out the day before . At the same time, I read a Bolivian news outlet, El Deber, reporting the fires raging over there .

Large wildfires can have broad environmental impacts beyond damaged property.

In 2020, Colorado saw three of its largest wildfires , and a day after record-breaking heat in Fort Collins, a snowstorm hit the city in September, breaking another record, this time for the earliest snow in 130 years   — a stark reminder that climate change is no longer an abstract and distant problem.

Farther south, in Arizona and New Mexico, people were met with an eerie sight .

“You could walk to a local creek and find dead birds on the ground,” Woolley said.

To find out the reason, the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish did an autopsy.

“The lab report indicates that the single abnormality shared by nearly all birds was body condition ranging from poor to severely emaciated,” the agency said in a release .

The birds starved. Their stomachs and intestines were empty, their fat deposits depleted and the muscles that control their wings severely shrunk.

“These observations are evidence of physical exertion without nourishment to support recovery,” the report says.

A study published in 2021 used data collected by citizen scientists and found “that distance to wildfire and air quality were the major factors that influence the number of bird mortality over the study period. However, we did not find a significant effect of snow cover on bird deaths.”

Even if the fire or snow did not have a direct impact on the migrating birds, it could have impacted the insects that they feed on, Woolley said.

Environmental hazards like this could be particularly hard on black swifts. When conditions improve, many bird species can recover their populations, but black swifts also have a long incubation period. This means that usually they only lay one egg per season. If that egg fails, they have to wait another year until they return from their migration to try again.

Anecdotally, Woolley later told me the spring in the year that followed the 2020 wildfires and early snowstorm was one with the fewest birds they’d seen in some time, although Woolley didn’t know for sure if it was tied to the weather events.

“It’s kind of death by a thousand cuts. There are so many factors that are having somewhat of a detrimental impact,” Woolley said.

“Then last fall at our migration banding stations was also a really down year. And kind of seems like that’s happening more often,” Woolley said.

Scientists are indeed documenting widespread declines in birds. 

One paper found a net loss of around three billion birds in North America in the previous half-century. That’s one in every four birds .

Estimates show the black swift population has decreased by 94% since 1970, and in a report from Partners in Flight these birds have been designated as a species of continental concern .

Climate change and other human impacts could threaten both of their homes.

Deforestation in the Amazon could impact their wintering grounds and decreased precipitation could impact their waterfall nesting sites.

Hiking in the dark

During the expedition, the stream was mostly ankle-deep. This meant Woolley and Sparks would be able to get to their study location at Zapata Falls, just over 7 miles south, as the crow flies, from the Great Sand Dunes.

Walking at 4:40 a.m. with rubber boots on slightly rocky terrain makes for an awkward hike; these boots feel very loose on the bumpy ground compared to proper hiking shoes, but the trail is brief and soon we are around the corner from the waterfalls that hum with white noise.

Since the black swift nests can be hard to access, the mist nets are set up here to capture the birds flying to and from, a standard procedure in this field.

As the black sky turned blue, we started getting some birds and the scientists lowered the net back down to retrieve them.

Each was delicately handled as Woolley and Sparks measured their weight, wing and tail length, and took notes of feather conditions.

In that second fieldwork day the scientists caught seven black swifts — more than the previous day’s total of four.

Most of the birds had an aluminum bracelet with a unique code on their leg, known as a band , which allows the scientists to track individual birds over the years.

But the biggest prize was when they could recover devices that collected data from their recent trip. Two of the birds that were caught had these GPS tags.

When Sparks and I parted ways after the trip, he seemed as excited to process the location data on his computer as I was to transfer the photos to my computer.

The following week, the Bird Conservancy of the Rockies scientists went on another fieldwork trip in a different part of Colorado. I asked Sparks if anything stood out from the data they retrieved.

"It is too preliminary to say but we do have more movement data for breeding, migration and non-breeding seasons," Sparks said over email.

A world of conservation awaits 'if you're willing to step outside'

Sparks and Woolley, along with their collaborators, have unveiled many of the black swift's mysteries. But there are still plenty of unknowns, and studying birds that constantly move around is hard.

“It’s really difficult to get basic information like how long birds live, where do they go … is it a male, female,” said Woolley.

The more data they collect to understand black swifts, the better they can guide conservation efforts.

“Since conservation funding is very limited, it’s important to try to figure out where we need to prioritize and spend our time,” Sparks said.

Sparks aims to share what they learn about black swifts and hopes that their research will end in saving black swifts from extinction.

“In this case, they're insectivores, (they) eat tons of insects, so they could help control pests,” Sparks said.

Something I had not fully grasped until now was how interconnected things are in an ecosystem.

For instance, if wildfires, climate change or other human activities were to disturb the flying insects that black swifts feed on, that could then pose a threat to the bird itself.

Months before the trip, I read the breakthrough study that laid out where these birds travel to and I was immediately fascinated because of what it represented to me.

But being able to see them up close and noticing their large eyes and feeling their heart beat on my hand made me admire black swifts even more.

It's a feeling Woolley is familiar with.

When he’s not working on this project, Woolley also runs several banding stations across the state where adults and children can get this experience and says there’s nothing like getting that personal connection.

“You can walk out your front door, regardless of where you live, whether it’s in the middle of the city, or out in the suburbs, or out in the country,” Woolley said. “If you're willing to step outside, you're going to see some birds.”

Essay on Air Pollution for Students and Children

500+ words essay on air pollution.

Essay on Air Pollution – Earlier the air we breathe in use to be pure and fresh. But, due to increasing industrialization and concentration of poisonous gases in the environment the air is getting more and more toxic day by day. Also, these gases are the cause of many respiratory and other diseases . Moreover, the rapidly increasing human activities like the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation is the major cause of air pollution.

How Air Gets Polluted?

The fossil fuel , firewood, and other things that we burn produce oxides of carbons which got released into the atmosphere. Earlier there happens to be a large number of trees which can easily filter the air we breathe in. But with the increase in demand for land, the people started cutting down of trees which caused deforestation. That ultimately reduced the filtering capacity of the tree.

Moreover, during the last few decades, the numbers of fossil fuel burning vehicle increased rapidly which increased the number of pollutants in the air .

Causes Of Air Pollution

Its causes include burning of fossil fuel and firewood, smoke released from factories , volcanic eruptions, forest fires, bombardment, asteroids, CFCs (Chlorofluorocarbons), carbon oxides and many more.

Besides, there are some other air pollutants like industrial waste, agricultural waste, power plants, thermal nuclear plants, etc.

Greenhouse Effect

The greenhouse effect is also the cause of air pollution because air pollution produces the gases that greenhouse involves. Besides, it increases the temperature of earth surface so much that the polar caps are melting and most of the UV rays are easily penetrating the surface of the earth.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Effects Of Air Pollution On Health

Moreover, it increases the rate of aging of lungs, decreases lungs function, damage cells in the respiratory system.

Ways To Reduce Air Pollution

Although the level of air pollution has reached a critical point. But, there are still ways by which we can reduce the number of air pollutants from the air.

Reforestation- The quality of air can be improved by planting more and more trees as they clean and filter the air.

Policy for industries- Strict policy for industries related to the filter of gases should be introduced in the countries. So, we can minimize the toxins released from factories.

Use of eco-friendly fuel-  We have to adopt the usage of Eco-friendly fuels such as LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas), CNG (Compressed Natural Gas), bio-gas, and other eco-friendly fuels. So, we can reduce the amount of harmful toxic gases.

To sum it up, we can say that the air we breathe is getting more and more polluted day by day. The biggest contribution to the increase in air pollution is of fossil fuels which produce nitric and sulphuric oxides. But, humans have taken this problem seriously and are devotedly working to eradicate the problem that they have created.

Above all, many initiatives like plant trees, use of eco-friendly fuel are promoted worldwide.

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