#airpollution #lancet #report #upscclasses #environment
A vital topic! Air pollution is the presence of harmful substances in the air we breathe, posing risks to human health and the environment. The main pollutants include:
1. Particulate Matter (PM): tiny particles like dust, soot, and smoke.
2. Nitrogen Oxides (NOx): emissions from fossil fuel combustion.
3. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): chemicals from industrial processes and vehicle emissions.
4. Carbon Monoxide (CO): a colorless, odorless gas from incomplete fuel combustion.
5. Ozone (O3): ground-level ozone, a major component of smog.
Air pollution sources:
1. Fossil fuel combustion (vehicles, power plants, industry)
2. Industrial processes (mining, smelting, manufacturing)
3. Agricultural activities (fertilizers, pesticides, animal waste)
4. Waste disposal (landfills, incineration)
Health impacts:
1. Respiratory problems (asthma, COPD, lung cancer)
2. Cardiovascular disease
3. Neurological damage
4. Birth defects and infant mortality
Environmental effects:
1. Climate change
2. Eutrophication (excessive plant growth, harmful algal blooms)
3. Acid rain
4. Visibility impairment (haze, reduced scenic views)
Let's work together to reduce air pollution!