Air pollution has recently been one of the most discussed problems in the world, with big cities such as Beijing, New Delhi, and others across the world becoming severely polluted. Despite the numerous debates, it is critical to understand what air pollution is to identify the fundamental causes and take appropriate action. Particulate matter contamination is the sixth leading cause of mortality worldwide. Chemical particles that become airborne and enter the lungs cause lung illnesses, cardiovascular disease, and other forms of infections. This is a serious matter that should not be handled lightly.
The AQI is split into six categories for simplicity of comprehension. These categories help you understand the levels of air pollution in your region so that you may take appropriate action. According to the AQI, 300 to 500 is regarded as the most harmful, shown by a maroon hue, while 0 to 50 is denoted by a green tint, denoting excellent quality air. Now, let’s take a closer look and discuss a more detailed matter in these areas.
0 to 50 – Good (Green)
The air quality is deemed acceptable. This is indicated by the color green, and no adverse health consequences are anticipated. Summer temperatures are cool, windy conditions, and a lot of cloud cover.
Above, there is also heavy or continuous precipitation, but nothing serious.
51 to 100 – Moderate (Yellow)
On this level, the air quality is moderate and adequate. Some contaminants, on the other hand, may pose a moderate health risk to a very limited percentage of persons who are especially sensitive to air pollution. Temperatures range from the high 70s to the lower 80s, with mild to moderate breezes and partly overcast to the mainly sunny sky.
101 to 150 – Unhealthy for sensitive groups (Orange)
On this level, it should not affect a healthy person, but those who already have lung difficulties, elderly people, and children may develop respiratory problems. At this level of air quality, the general population is unlikely to be harmed. Temperatures are in the 80s and 90s, there are low breezes, and the sky is largely sunny.
151 to 200 – Unhealthy (Red)
The air quality has deteriorated to the point that it is hazardous and detrimental to the population. Everyone who lives in such an environment is likely to be uncomfortable, and sensitive groups may suffer harmful consequences. The atmosphere above and around us is hot, foggy, and humid. The air is stagnant, and the sky is hot, making life difficult for the general people.
201 to 300 – Very Unhealthy (Violet)
This level is regarded as exceedingly unhealthy, and it raises an important health alert since it is extremely hazardous to all living things. Everyone may suffer from more significant health consequences. The weather outside is hot and foggy, endangering everyone’s general health.
301 to 500 – Hazardous (Maroon)
It is an emergency in which the entire population is extremely likely to be affected. When they reach this level of air quality, the government issues warnings. The air will be unbearable and there is a high possibility that the people are required to wear protective gear to stay safe and not inhale the air.
The Most Effective Strategies to Decrease Air Pollution
There are several methods and practices you may use to avoid lowering the quality of the air around you. To prevent reaching levels that are unpleasant for human beings to live in. Here are some measures that you and I can take together to help keep the air we breathe clean.
Use Pubic Transport
Using public transportation is a guaranteed method to contribute to reduced air pollution because it uses less petrol and electricity; even carpools help. Call your friends and make every ride to work an adventure. Aside from reducing the amount of fuel and gas released, taking public transportation may also help you save money, such a win-win situation.
Turn off the lights when not in use
The energy used by lights contributes to air pollution, so consuming less power can save energy. Every electrical energy produced will constantly pollute the environment, thus it is important to be aware of all applications that use it. To assist the environment, use energy-saving fluorescent lighting.
Recycle and Reuse
The notion of recycling and reuse not only helps to save resources and utilize them wisely, but it also helps to reduce pollution emissions, which helps to reduce air pollution. Recycled items also need less energy to manufacture, resulting in less energy being released into the environment. Every tiny action you and I do add up to something huge, which is why we all must do our part to improve the quality of our air.
No to plastic bags
Plastic items may be detrimental to the environment since they take a long time to disintegrate owing to their oil-based composition. Paper bags, on the other hand, are a superior choice because they disintegrate quickly and are recyclable. Another option is to bring a cloth bag to the grocery store and put all of your groceries and other essential things in it.
Reduction of forest fires and smoking
Garbage collection and burning in dry seasons, or dry leaves igniting fires, is a major contributor to air pollution. All of that harmful smoke will hasten the deterioration of air quality. Furthermore, smoking contributes to air pollution and worsens air quality, as well as harming one’s health.
Use of fans instead of Air Conditioner
The use of air conditioners consumes a lot of energy and produces a lot of heat, which is harmful to the environment. When compared to fans, air conditioners require a significant amount of electricity and energy to operate. The heated air it creates outdoors will be extremely damaging to the environment and your health. Fans need less energy to operate and provide free-flowing air in the room.
Plant more trees and greenery
Supporting local garden efforts (or establishing your own) can assist improve your neighborhood’s long-term air quality. By absorbing the carbon dioxide, plants assist to purify the air around them. You can always make it a pleasant pastime in which everyone can participate and positively contribute to Mother Earth.
Just like any other good thing in the world, we can never see an overnight result. It will take time and effort, but by doing modest acts daily and making these behaviors a habit, there will be a significant shift and influence on the environment.
Things You Need to Know About Air Pollution
The effects of air pollution on the human body vary depending on the kind of pollutant, the time and intensity of exposure, and other factors such as a person’s specific health risks and the cumulative effects of numerous pollutants or stressors. Here are some key points to consider on how poor air quality impacts the environment and the community.
Compromised Lung Health
Nine out of ten people inhale the polluted air. When this air enters our system, it will have a negative effect on our bodies.
Deadly
Every year, seven million people are killed by air pollution, with almost half of them dying as a result of indoor air pollution.
Polluted Community
Countries should improve urban planning regulations, control filthy emissions, and prohibit the use of high-polluting automobiles.
Unhealthy Children
Children are particularly vulnerable to air pollution. Infants who are exposed to poor air quality at an early age are more likely to develop respiratory illness, cancer, and cognitive deficits.
Household Pollution
Household pollution is a major issue. Some houses may not have access to clean resources, resulting in poor indoor air quality.
Nature at Risk
Air pollution is also harmful to our environment’s health. When we do not have clean air to breathe, additional negative elements will follow, culminating in the worst-case situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is air pollution?
A: The phrase “air pollution” refers to the tiny particles, chemicals, and gases that are discharged into the atmosphere. If these air pollutants are inhaled, they can have a negative influence on the environment and our health.
Q: Can you see air pollution?
A: You’ve probably seen photos of soot or dust in the air. When smog is visible, it implies the air is extremely hazardous to breathe. However, most of the time, air pollution is not visible. The particles, like oxygen, are invisible, but that doesn’t make them any less dangerous.
Q: Why is air pollution bad?
A: Air pollution not only has a negative influence on the environment, but it also harms human health. You may suffer from a variety of illnesses, most notably those affecting your lungs, which are critically important since they allow you to breathe.
Q: Where does air pollution come from?
A: The rise in vehicle traffic in recent decades has had a wide-ranging influence on our towns and cities, including noise pollution, a lack of physical activity, access difficulties, and road traffic collisions. These are the most important elements that influence the quality of our air.
Final Words
It is critical to be conscious of the activities we perform daily. It may harm our environment, jeopardizing not just the earth’s state but also our own. When we do not take the required steps to help limit air pollution, the environment in which we live will become unpleasant, and it will be too late to rescue it.
Home Air Quality is founded by Bernard K to provide information on Indoor Air Quality in Homes and enlighten people about what they need to know about creating and maintaining a comfortable and healthy home environment.
We believe that “Quality air brings a healthy life.”
