Air Quality
Air pollution affects our health in many ways. Some of the most significant health risks stem from inhaling polluted air. Inhaled airborne pollutants can quickly cause illness and are linked to various types of health complications. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has identified a number of environmental health risks associated with inhaling pollutants in the air, including respiratory and cardiovascular disease, cancer and other long-term health effects.
Particle pollution, or particulate matter (PM), is one of the most harmful airborne pollutants to human health. PM comes from combustion sources such as vehicle exhaust and smoke released from burning wood. It can also come from dust, pollen, mold, and other solid particles that become airborne. Particles can be small enough to remain suspended in the air for hours and travel considerable distances, meaning that people located far away from a source of pollution still may be affected. Particle pollution can cause inflammation of the respiratory system and increase the risk of respiratory infections and asthma. Long-term exposure to particle pollution from air quality is also associated with premature death, heart and lung diseases, and other health problems.
The most prevalent airborne toxic pollutants are ground-level ozone and carbon monoxide. Ozone is the main component of smog, and is formed when sunlight interacts with the particulate matter and other air pollutants. Exposure to ozone can lead to lung damage, breathing difficulties, and respiratory problems. Carbon monoxide interferes with a person's ability to absorb oxygen and can cause headaches, dizziness, and nausea. Long-term exposure to carbon monoxide is linked to increased risk of heart and lung diseases.
Air pollution from industrial sources, such as power plants and refineries, can travel great distances and create regional-scale air pollution. These pollutants are responsible for acid rain, smog, and haze. They can also damage ecosystems, soils and waterways. Inhaling ambient air pollution over long periods of time can lead to an increased risk of cancer and other respiratory illnesses.
The key to avoiding environmental health risks associated with inhaled pollutants is to understand the sources of air pollution and reduce exposure to them. This can be done by limiting air pollution at the source, such as increasing fuel efficiency to reduce emissions from vehicle emissions, and utilizing clean energy sources such as solar and wind power. Government regulations are also in place in many countries that mandate filtration systems and emissions limits for industries. Additionally, individuals can do their part by reducing car use, avoiding burning wood, investing in air filtration systems, and staying informed about air quality levels in their area.
By understanding the potential risks related to inhaled pollutants as well as the steps we can take to limit exposure, we can effectively reduce our health risks and strive to maintain clean air quality for future generations.
