Climate Change: Worsening Air Pollution, Impacting Our Future

Climate change and air pollution are two sides of the same coin. Burning fossil fuels is the main cause of both climate change and air pollution. Climate change is expected to increase ground-level ozone and particulate matter, worsening existing air pollution. Warmer temperatures and higher carbon dioxide concentrations related to climate change can increase pollen production and lengthen the pollen season, affecting people with allergies and respiratory illnesses. Wildfires, which are more frequent due to climate change, release smoke that impairs visibility, spreads pollutants, and worsens respiratory conditions. Addressing air pollution through policy reforms, renewable energy sources, and emission reductions is crucial for tackling climate change and improving public health.

Wildfires and smoke

Wildfires release a range of pollutants into the atmosphere, including black carbon, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter. These pollutants can combine with existing air pollution, further increasing the harmful effects of smoke on human health and the environment. Wildfire smoke is particularly detrimental to respiratory health, with research indicating that it is up to 10 times more harmful to humans than particles released from other sources, such as car exhaust.

The relationship between climate change and wildfires is a vicious cycle. Climate change increases the risk and extent of wildfires by creating warmer and drier conditions, which act as fuel for fires. This is particularly evident in regions affected by drought, where organic matter becomes drier and more susceptible to burning. As a result, wildfires become more frequent and intense, releasing greenhouse gases and aerosols, such as carbon dioxide, methane, and black carbon.

The impact of wildfires on air quality can be significant, with smoke reducing visibility and causing eye and respiratory issues, especially among vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly. Wildfire smoke can travel long distances, affecting regions far from the fire source. For example, smoke from wildfires in Canada and the western United States has been known to impact air quality in the northeastern United States and even reach as far as southern Greenland and Western Europe.

The health impacts of wildfire smoke are substantial and have been shown to be on par with, or even exceed, the direct physical costs of wildfires. Hospital admissions have been observed to increase by up to 10% during periods of high wildfire smoke pollution. The particles released in wildfire smoke are extremely fine and can cause severe respiratory issues, especially for individuals with pre-existing conditions such as asthma.

To mitigate the risks associated with wildfire smoke, communities, and governments need to implement a range of measures. This includes improving air monitoring systems and public health programs, providing financial aid to at-risk populations to purchase air filters, and minimizing global warming through the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, land use planning, fire-resistant design in buildings, and fuel management in fire-prone areas can help reduce the likelihood and impact of wildfires.

Ozone and particulate matter

Ozone is a major air pollutant and a key component of smog, which is commonly found at ground level. It is formed when volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) react with sunlight. Ground-level ozone is harmful to human health and can cause respiratory issues, especially in vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly. Climate change is expected to increase ground-level ozone in many regions, particularly in high-income countries. Warmer temperatures and more sunny days can increase the amount of ozone in the atmosphere, and this may present challenges for meeting ozone standards in the future.

Particulate matter, or PM, refers to tiny particles of solids or liquids suspended in the air. These particles can be made up of various substances, including acids, organic chemicals, metals, and soil or dust particles. The size of PM is directly linked to its potential for causing health issues, with smaller particles (PM2.5 and PM10) being more harmful as they can be inhaled and reach the deepest parts of the lungs, and even enter the bloodstream. Climate change can increase particulate matter through various mechanisms, such as increased dust from droughts, smoke from wildfires, and changes in meteorologic conditions.

The impact of climate change on these air pollutants is a serious concern for human health. Increased exposure to elevated concentrations of ozone and PM can lead to a range of adverse health effects, including respiratory problems, lung disease, and cancer. The World Health Organization attributed 0.8 million deaths and 7.9 million disability-adjusted life-years lost in the year 2000 to urban air pollution. Additionally, certain socially vulnerable groups, such as communities of color, low-income groups, and Indigenous populations, are at a higher risk of experiencing the health impacts of air pollution due to existing health disparities and unequal exposure to pollutants.

Furthermore, the effects of climate change on ozone and particulate matter can have economic consequences. The health impacts of air pollution due to these pollutants result in a significant economic burden, with the World Bank estimating the cost of health damage caused by air pollution at $8.1 trillion annually, equivalent to 6.1% of global GDP.

Addressing the impact of climate change on ozone and particulate matter requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes implementing regulatory initiatives, partnership programs, and individual actions to reduce air pollutant emissions. Additionally, it is crucial to consider the dual benefits of reducing SLCP emissions, which can lead to improved local air quality and contribute to mitigating global climate change.

Health impacts

Air pollution has severe impacts on public health, biodiversity, and ecosystems globally. It is linked to adverse health impacts such as respiratory and heart diseases. In the United States, nearly 102 million people lived in areas with poor air quality in 2021. Climate-driven changes in weather conditions, including temperature and precipitation, are expected to increase ground-level ozone and particulate matter, worsening existing air pollution.

Ground-level ozone is associated with respiratory illnesses, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and bronchitis. Warmer temperatures and higher carbon dioxide concentrations lengthen the pollen season and increase pollen production, leading to more allergy-related illnesses. Climate change is projected to increase "bad air days" across the United States, putting millions at risk for irritated eyes, noses, and lungs, especially for young children, older adults, and those with asthma.

Wildfire smoke, which accounts for about one-third of particulate matter pollution in the United States, is expected to worsen due to climate change. This smoke contains harmful chemicals and negatively impacts respiratory health, with potential links to premature births. Additionally, indoor air quality is affected by climate change, as increases in outdoor pollutants can lead to higher indoor exposures, fostering the growth of mold, dust mites, and bacteria.

The health impacts of air pollution are particularly pronounced in low- and middle-income countries, affecting the elderly, young children, and those from poor families the most. A World Bank report estimated the cost of health damage caused by air pollution at $8.1 trillion annually, equivalent to 6.1% of global GDP. Reducing air pollution improves health, strengthens economies, and reduces poverty.

Fossil fuels and vehicles

Fossil fuels are a major contributor to both climate change and air pollution. When burned, fossil fuels release large amounts of carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas that traps heat in the atmosphere, leading to global warming. The latest research on air pollution indicates that its impacts on health and mortality are approximately double what was previously estimated. Fossil fuel companies are significant polluters, as they continue to produce and sell these products despite the scientific consensus that a shift to renewable energy is necessary.

The burning of fossil fuels, such as coal and diesel, releases toxic particulate matter (PM2.5) and short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs) like methane and black carbon. These SLCPs have a more potent warming effect on the planet than carbon dioxide, despite remaining in the atmosphere for shorter periods. Black carbon, a component of fine particulate matter, is one of the largest contributors to global warming after carbon dioxide. It absorbs sunlight, accelerating the melting of snow and ice, and contributes to air pollution, with severe health consequences for populations, especially in low- and middle-income countries.

Vehicles powered by diesel and other fossil fuels are a significant source of air pollution and climate-warming emissions. The transportation sector, including vehicles, is a major contributor to both particulate matter and carbon dioxide emissions. To improve air quality and mitigate climate change, a transition from diesel to electric vehicles is essential. Additionally, catalytic converters can be installed in vehicles to reduce the toxicity of their emissions.

Reducing emissions from vehicles can be achieved through various means. Encouraging walking, biking, and the use of public transportation can help lower transportation emissions. Developing urban forests by planting trees in urban areas and along roads or highways can also improve air quality and reduce the impact of urban heat islands. Furthermore, communities and stakeholders can collaborate through initiatives like the EPA's Ports Initiative to improve environmental performance and promote clean technologies, especially in areas near ports, where the risk of air pollution exposure is higher.

Allergies and respiratory issues

Climate change impacts air quality by increasing the number of "bad air days" across the United States, putting millions of Americans at risk for irritated eyes, noses, and lungs. This is especially dangerous for young children, older adults, people who work or exercise outside, and those with asthma. Warmer temperatures can speed up the formation of smog, which is made up of ground-level ozone, and extend the smog season. Climate change can also increase pollen production and the growth of mould and spores, which are allergens that can trigger asthma and allergy attacks.

Urbanization, high levels of vehicle emissions, and a westernized lifestyle are correlated with an increased frequency of respiratory allergies, especially in urban areas. Diesel exhaust contains fine and ultrafine particles that can stimulate oxidation and inflammation in the airways, leading to asthma and allergic sensitization. Wildfire smoke, which can spread to other regions, can also worsen respiratory illnesses such as asthma, COPD, and bronchitis.

To protect against the effects of climate change and air pollution, individuals can check the Air Quality Index before going outside and support policies that aim to reduce climate change and its impact on human health. Health professionals should also advocate for effective mitigation and adaptation strategies to minimize the respiratory health effects of climate change.

The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) offers educational programs, resources, and tools for patients, caregivers, and health professionals to manage asthma and allergies. They also support public policies that will benefit people with these conditions.

Frequently asked questions