The air we breathe is essential for life, but it has turned toxic for many. Air pollution silently harms human health, often overlooked compared to more obvious threats. Nine out of 10 people globally breathe polluted air, yet many are oblivious to the health and environmental risks it poses.

Air pollution has numerous sources, both natural and human-made. It can be emitted by stationary sources like power plants and industrial facilities, or mobile sources like cars, trains, and planes. These pollutants can take many forms, including nitrogen oxides, sulphur dioxides, volatile organic compounds, and particulate matter.

The health impacts of air pollution are shockingly varied. Perhaps the most visible effect is its contribution to respiratory problems, like lung cancer and exacerbation of asthma. Studies also suggest that air pollution can be linked to an increased risk of heart disease, strokes, and other cardiovascular issues.

The Health Costs

One significant form of air pollution is particulate matter (PM). PM is a mixture of extremely small particles and liquid droplets and can range widely in size. PM10, which are particles 10 micrometres in diameter or smaller, can penetrate and lodge deep inside the lungs. PM2.5, with diameters of 2.5 micrometres and smaller, can enter the bloodstream, causing even more widespread damage.

The World Health Organization (WHO) attributes 4.2 million deaths worldwide every year to exposure to fine PM. This makes it one of the greatest environmental risks to health. People with pre-existing heart or lung conditions, the elderly, and children are particularly vulnerable. In addition to chronic diseases, short-term exposure can lead to respiratory infections and inflammation, aggravating heart disease and exacerbating lung conditions.

When Pollution Favors No One

Air pollution impacts everyone equally; it does not discriminate based on race, religion, or wealth. However, those with preexisting health conditions and lower socioeconomic backgrounds are often the hardest hit, with pollution playing a contributing role in health disparities.

Pregnant women are particularly vulnerable. Studies have linked exposure to air pollutants with low birth weights, premature births, and even childhood respiratory diseases. For the younger and older strata of our society, whose respiratory and immune systems are still developing or on the wane, the stakes are particularly high. In urban or industrial areas, it’s common for certain communities to suffer from excessive air pollution. Environmental injustices worsen this situation, with low-income and minority neighbourhoods facing higher pollution levels, leading to health issues and perpetuating systemic inequities.

The Dieselgate scandal, referred to in Emissions.co.uk, is a global controversy that erupted when it was discovered that some diesel cars were programmed to emit lower levels of pollutants during tests than in real-world driving conditions, highlighting the need for rigorous emissions control. Volkswagen’s involvement in the diesel emissions scandal, which exposed the deceit of a corporation, also shone a light on the broader issues of industrial trustworthiness and the regulatory environment. It begs the question: if the air we breathe is at stake, can we afford to be complacent about compliance and enforcement?

The Road Ahead for Policy and Personal Changes

With such significant public health risks at stake, the clamour for change is growing louder. From the phasing out of coal-fired power plants to the increasing acceptance of electric vehicles, strides are being made to improve air quality. However, much remains to be done.

Policy Reforms

Policymakers play a crucial role in advocating for and implementing changes that can mitigate air pollution. This can range from local initiatives promoting clean energy and public transportation to international agreements that set emissions standards and encourage collective action.

One such example is the Paris Agreement, which aims to limit global temperature increases by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This landmark agreement has the dual benefit of addressing climate change and improving air quality.

Personal Solutions

It’s not all about policy and industry, though. Individual actions can also make a difference. Simple changes like using public transportation, reducing energy consumption, and adopting sustainable practices can all contribute to cleaner air and better health outcomes.

For those more directly impacted by air pollution, personal solutions may mean the use of air purifiers at home or wearing masks while outdoors. While such measures are important, they are not a long-term substitute for systemic change.

Grassroots Movements and Their Power

The fight for clean air isn’t just a matter of legislative halls and technocratic negotiations. Grassroots movements have proven to be powerful engines of change, raising awareness, pushing for local regulations, and holding governments and industries accountable for their role in polluting our shared environment.

Engagement with these grassroots campaigns, from signing petitions to taking part in cleanup efforts, not only empowers the individual but also contributes to a collective force that demands and implements change where it is most needed.

Join the fight against air pollution. Your health, and the health of future generations, depend on it.