HOW AIR POLLUTION AFFECTS IN OUR HEALTH
Air pollution is the pollution caused by the mixing of smoke, toxic gases and other chemical substances in the atmosphere. It may threaten the survival of humans and other species on earth. Air pollution is pollution caused by the release of harmful substances into the air. It causes health problems and damage to environment and property. It also causes depletion of the ozone layer, which is the protective shield of the atmosphere, leading to climate change. Industries, vehicles and population growth are some important causes of air pollution. Air pollution has many causes. Many of them are beyond human control. Dust storms in deserts, forest fires and grass fires etc. cause chemical pollution in the air.
Also, food waste and fish meat wastes that are thrown carelessly by humans rot and spread foul odors in the air and contribute to air pollution. Today, epidemics such as cancer are on the rise due to air pollution.
Major air pollutants and their sources are given below
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless and odorless gas. It is produced by the incomplete combustion of carbon-based fuels such as petrol, diesel and wood. It is also produced by the combustion of natural and synthetic products, such as cigarettes. This reduces the amount of oxygen reaching our blood. Also slows down our reflexes and makes a person anxious and sleepy.
Carbon dioxide (CO2), the main greenhouse gas, is released into the atmosphere by human activities such as burning coal, oil, and natural gas. Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are released mainly from refrigeration systems and refrigerators. When CFS reach the atmosphere, they reach the stratosphere (the uppermost part of the atmosphere where the temperature does not change with altitude) where they come into contact with other gases, causing depletion of the ozone layer that protects the Earth from the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays.
Lead is found in gasoline, diesel, lead batteries, paints, and hair dye products. Lead mainly affects children. It causes nervous system disorders, digestive problems and in some cases' cancer.
Ozone is found in the uppermost layer of the atmosphere. This vital gas shields the Earth from harmful ultraviolet rays from the Sun. However, they are a downstream pollutant due to their high toxicity. Vehicles and industries are the main sources of ozone emissions at the bottom level. Ozone makes our eyes itchy, burning and watery. Ozone lowers our resistance to colds and pneumonia.
Nitrogen oxides (NOX) cause smog and acid rain. They are produced from burning fuels which include petrol, diesel and coal. Nitrogen oxides are responsible for respiratory illnesses in children during winter. Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM) These are solids found in the air in the form of snow, dust and vapor that remain in the atmosphere for long periods of time. These are also the main source of visibility-reducing haze. When we inhale, most of these elements accumulate in our lungs, leading to lung damage and respiratory problems.
Sulfur dioxide (SO2) is a gas produced from burning coal and thermal power plants. Some industrial processes, such as papermaking and metal smelting, produce sulfur dioxide. It is the main cause of smog and acid rain. Sulfur dioxide leads to lung diseases.
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