Air Pollution: Stoppable Scourge Or Inevitable Future?

Air pollution is a serious problem, but it is not insurmountable. While it is a global issue, actions at the individual and community levels are important. Laws and regulations have been effective in reducing air pollution, but the effects of air pollution are still apparent, and the growing threat of climate change remains a pressing concern. The Clean Air Act, passed in 1970, paved the way for efforts to improve air quality in the United States, and similar legislation has been enacted in other countries. Moving from coal and gas power to renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and hydropower, is recommended by the World Health Organization. Additionally, individuals can contribute by driving less, using public transportation, biking, or walking, as well as conserving energy and choosing sustainable products.

Reducing emissions from vehicles and transport

Transportation is a major contributor to air pollution. In the US, greenhouse gas emissions from transportation account for about 28% of total US greenhouse gas emissions, making it the largest contributor. In the EU, road transport contributed to 24% of the total emissions of carbon dioxide in 2020.

Reducing Vehicle Emissions

• Choose fuel-efficient vehicles: When shopping for a new car, look for fuel-efficient vehicles with low greenhouse gas emissions. These include plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, and cleaner-burning gasoline vehicles.
• Maintain your vehicle: Keep your car in good condition by getting regular tune-ups, following the manufacturer's maintenance schedule, and using the recommended motor oil.
• Drive efficiently: Go easy on the gas pedal and brakes, accelerate gradually, and obey the speed limit.
• Limit idling: Unnecessary idling of vehicles pollutes the air, wastes fuel, and causes excess engine wear. Modern vehicles do not need to be warmed up in the winter, so turn on the engine only when you are ready to drive.
• Reduce the number of trips: Walk, bike, carpool, or use public transportation whenever possible. This will not only reduce emissions but also save you money on fuel costs.
• Optimise deliveries: When getting home deliveries or shopping online, request to have all your packages sent in one shipment with minimal packaging. For scheduled deliveries, choose a longer time window so that delivery trucks can optimise their routes and avoid unnecessary trips.

Reducing Emissions from Transport

• Improve fuel quality: EU legislation requires a reduction in the greenhouse gas intensity of vehicle fuels by up to 6% by 2020.
• Set emissions standards: The US EPA and DOT have issued regulations for GHG emissions from passenger cars, trucks, and heavy-duty vehicles, with targets to reduce emissions and improve fuel efficiency.
• Promote renewable fuels: The Renewable Fuel Standard program in the US aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by expanding the use of renewable fuels produced from plants, crops, and biomass.
• Improve fuel economy: The US EPA provides consumers with information on fuel economy and fuel costs, as well as ratings on greenhouse gas emissions and smog-forming pollutants for different vehicle models.

Limiting the burning of fossil fuels

Burning fossil fuels is a major contributor to air pollution. Fossil fuels account for 85% of energy production in the US and have a detrimental impact on the environment and human health. When burned, fossil fuels release nitrogen oxides into the atmosphere, contributing to smog and acid rain formation.

Reduce Vehicle Usage

One of the most significant sources of air pollution is vehicle exhaust. By driving less, individuals can play a crucial role in reducing air pollution. This can be achieved by walking or biking when possible, using public transportation, carpooling, or even working remotely. Consolidating driving trips and limiting idling can also help minimize vehicle emissions. Proper vehicle maintenance, including fixing exhaust issues and maintaining proper tire pressure, is essential to reducing fuel consumption and lowering emissions.

Energy Conservation at Home

Conserving electrical energy at home directly reduces the demand for fossil fuels. Energy-efficient appliances with the Energy Star label help lower electricity consumption. Simple actions such as turning off lights and electronics when not in use, adjusting thermostats slightly, and maintaining heating and cooling systems can lead to significant energy savings. Additionally, individuals can opt for alternative energy sources like solar panels to power their homes, reducing their reliance on fossil fuels.

Switch to Electric or Hand-Powered Equipment

Gas-powered equipment, such as lawn mowers, leaf blowers, and snow blowers, often lack pollution control devices. These small engines can produce almost the same amount of pollution as a 100-mile car trip. Switching to electric or hand-powered alternatives can significantly reduce emissions and improve air quality.

Increase Energy Efficiency in Businesses

Businesses can play a pivotal role in reducing the burning of fossil fuels by improving energy efficiency. Preparing annual greenhouse gas inventories and setting long-term emission reduction targets are essential first steps. Investing in energy-efficient equipment and lighting, as well as implementing corporate energy management programs, can yield substantial reductions in fossil fuel consumption and associated emissions.

Buy Renewable Energy

Organizations can make a significant impact by switching to renewable energy sources. Buying renewable energy not only reduces a company's environmental footprint but also provides additional benefits. By investing in clean energy sources, businesses can contribute to a more sustainable future while potentially improving their bottom line.

Controlling industrial emissions

Industrial emissions are a major source of air pollution, and there are several ways to reduce them.

Regulatory Measures

The US Clean Air Act requires the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to regulate hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) from large industrial facilities. The EPA develops standards for controlling emissions of air toxics from sources in an industry group, known as Maximum Achievable Control Technology (MACT) standards. These are technology-based standards that are set based on emissions levels already being achieved by controlled and low-emitting sources in an industry. The EPA is also required to review and revise these standards every eight years to account for improvements in air pollution controls and prevention.

In addition to the Clean Air Act, the New Source Performance Standards (NSPS) program regulates pollution from new, modified, and reconstructed facilities. The NSPS are technology-based standards that apply to specific categories of stationary sources, and they are regularly strengthened by the EPA to safeguard human health and the environment as technology advances.

Energy Efficiency and Fuel Switching

Improving energy efficiency and switching fuels can help reduce industrial emissions. By using energy more efficiently, industries can reduce the amount of greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere. Additionally, switching from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind power, can also help lower emissions.

Carbon Capture and Storage

For industrial processes without existing low-emission alternatives, carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology can be employed to reduce emissions over the long term. CCS involves capturing carbon dioxide emissions and storing them instead of releasing them into the atmosphere, which can significantly reduce the impact of industrial activities on climate change.

Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) Phase-down

Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) are widely used in refrigeration, air conditioning, and foam blowing, and they have a significant impact on climate change due to their high emissions rates and short atmospheric lifetimes. The American Innovation and Manufacturing Act of 2020 directs the EPA to implement an 85% phasedown of HFC production and consumption over 15 years, facilitating a transition to next-generation technologies.

Oil and Gas Production Methane Emissions

Oil and gas production is the largest man-made source of methane in the United States. To address this, the Biden administration issued Executive Order 13990 in January 2021, directing the EPA to consider proposing regulations for methane and volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions from existing operations in the oil and gas sector. This includes finding and repairing leaks, capturing natural gas, and limiting emissions from equipment used in natural gas transmission.

Other Industrial Sectors

Other industrial sectors, such as refineries and cement kilns, have been regulated for certain pollutants, including particulate matter (PM), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and nitrogen dioxide (NO2), since the Clean Air Act became law in 1970.

Improving air quality in cities

Policy Implementation and Government Intervention

Mayors and city officials play a pivotal role in improving air quality. They can implement policies and take decisive action, such as signing initiatives like the C40 Clean Air Accelerator, which brings cities together to tackle greenhouse gas emissions and air pollutants. This united front allows cities to share knowledge and best practices to combat air pollution effectively.

Boosting Air Quality Monitoring

Cities can establish comprehensive air quality monitoring networks to collect, analyze, and communicate data about the air their residents breathe. This evidence-based approach enables cities to make informed decisions and implement effective solutions. For example, Bogotá has launched a network of air quality microsensors, and Quezon City has expanded its monitoring network with additional sensors.

Implementing Low Emission Zones

Creating Low Emission Zones and Zero Emission Areas can significantly improve urban air quality and enhance residents' health and well-being. These zones reduce traffic emissions by restricting certain types of vehicles or implementing emission standards. London's Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) has led to a near 50% reduction in toxic nitrogen dioxide pollution in the city center.

Promoting Active Mobility and Greener Spaces

Encouraging active mobility, such as walking and cycling, not only improves air quality but also creates a healthier and safer public space. Cities like Barcelona are pedestrianizing streets, and Buenos Aires and Paris are expanding their cycle lane infrastructure. Planting more trees and creating green areas also absorb pollutants, reduce climate change impacts, and make walking and cycling more appealing.

Electrifying Public Transport

Transitioning to electric public transport is crucial for reducing air pollution. Cities like Bengaluru and Delhi in India are increasing their electric bus fleets, and Delhi is working to electrify 80% of its bus fleet by 2025.

Phasing Out Dirty Fuels

Cities can improve air quality by banning or implementing standards to phase out the use of fossil fuels and solid fuels for heating. For example, Warsaw has banned coal burning starting in 2023, and Seoul and Washington, D.C., have implemented emissions standards for boilers.

Reducing Vehicle Emissions

Vehicle exhaust is a significant source of air pollution. Encouraging the use of electric vehicles, carpooling, public transportation, and active mobility options like walking and cycling can significantly reduce emissions. Proper vehicle maintenance, keeping tires properly inflated, and limiting idling can also decrease a vehicle's pollution footprint.

Improving Energy Efficiency

Reducing energy consumption in homes and workplaces helps lower air pollution. Using energy-efficient appliances, lighting, and heating systems, as well as adopting renewable energy sources like solar or wind power, can substantially decrease pollution levels.

Educating Communities

Education is essential for empowering individuals to make environmentally conscious choices. Providing guidance and incentives for reducing air pollution at the community level can have a cumulative positive impact. This includes encouraging the use of energy-efficient appliances, promoting recycling, and raising awareness about the health and environmental risks associated with air pollution.

By implementing these strategies and adapting them to the specific needs and characteristics of each city, local governments and communities can play a pivotal role in improving air quality, protecting public health, and creating more sustainable urban environments.

The impact on human health

Air pollution poses a significant threat to human health, with the potential to cause a wide range of adverse effects on the body. The respiratory tract is the primary pathway of exposure, and inhaling pollutants can lead to inflammation, oxidative stress, immunosuppression, and mutagenicity in cells. These issues can impact the lungs, heart, and brain, among other organs, and ultimately lead to various diseases and even premature death.

One of the most critical air pollutants is fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which has been linked to a higher risk of premature mortality. In 2021, 97% of the urban population was exposed to concentrations of fine particulate matter above the health-based guideline level set by the World Health Organization. This exposure contributed to an estimated 238,000 premature deaths in the 27 EU Member States in 2020.

Short-term exposure to air pollution can trigger and exacerbate respiratory issues such as asthma, coughing, and wheezing. It can also lead to respiratory infections, aggravated asthma, and acute bronchitis. Additionally, scientists have linked short-term exposure to an increased risk of heart attacks and abnormal heartbeats.

Long-term or chronic exposure to air pollution, specifically fine particulate matter, increases the risk of developing diseases with a longer onset, including stroke, ischaemic heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and cancer. It is also associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as low birth weight, pre-term birth, and small gestational age births.

Children, the elderly, and pregnant women are more susceptible to the health risks associated with air pollution. Genetics, comorbidities, nutrition, and sociodemographic factors also play a role in an individual's susceptibility. Additionally, low-income communities and minority populations are often disproportionately exposed to air pollution and are more vulnerable to its adverse health impacts.

To reduce the impact of air pollution on human health, individuals can take steps such as reducing vehicle usage, maintaining their vehicles, limiting idling, using energy-efficient appliances, and choosing sustainable and natural products. Governments and organizations are also working to implement policies and programs that address air quality and reduce emissions from various sources, including vehicles, industries, and power plants.

Frequently asked questions