Air pollution is when harmful substances are released into the air, affecting human health and the environment. Each year, about seven million people worldwide die due to air pollution, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). There are various reasons for air pollution.
When tiny solid and liquid particles (aerosols) and certain gases end up in our air, they cause pollution. As these particles and gases can harm our health and the environment, it’s crucial to monitor them.
Breathing clean air has become difficult due to increasing air pollutants. Everyone is worried about their health because of these causes.
Air Pollutants:
Air pollutants are divided into two types:
- Primary Pollutants:
- These directly contribute to air pollution. For example, factories emit sulfur dioxide, which is a primary pollutant.
- Secondary Pollutants:
- These form when primary pollutants mix and react. An example is smog, produced by the combination of smoke and fog.
Causes of Air Pollution:
- Fossil Fuels:
- Burning fossil fuels like coal, oil, and gasoline for energy releases carbon monoxide and other toxic pollutants. Inhaling this polluted air can lead to respiratory issues.
- Industrial Emissions:
- Industries emit pollutants like particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide, affecting air quality and causing health problems.
- Transportation:
- Vehicle pollution, especially in cities, is a major source. Car emissions release harmful substances contributing to health issues and ozone layer depletion.
- Agriculture-related Activities:
- Agricultural practices release ammonia, pesticides, and fertilizers into the air, causing pollution. Field burning also adds harmful gases.
- Building and Demolition:
- Construction and demolition contribute to air pollution through materials like bricks and concrete, affecting air quality.
- Microbial Decay Process:
- Industries release pollutants like carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons, while microbial decay produces toxic methane gas, harmful if inhaled.
- Landfills and Waste:
- Landfills produce methane, a dangerous greenhouse gas. Improper disposal of electronic waste adds to pollution.
- Exploration and Mining:
- Mining activities release dust and chemicals, causing air pollution and affecting the health of workers and residents.
- Volcanic Eruptions:
- Natural processes like volcanic eruptions release pollutants, contributing to air pollution and influencing global cooling.
- Forest Fires:
- Forest fires emit pollutants, impacting air quality and causing health issues due to fine smoke particles.
- Activities in the Home:
- Everyday household items contribute to indoor air pollution, including asbestos, formaldehyde, tobacco smoke, and pollutants from paints and cleaning products.
Conclusion:
While addressing industrial air pollution globally may be challenging, individuals can take personal steps to reduce it. Managing indoor air pollution is more feasible, involving choices like using public transportation, reducing electricity use, and supporting businesses with eco-friendly practices.
Understanding the causes of air pollution empowers individuals to make informed choices for a healthier environment.