How Humans Are Trying To Stop Air Pollution

Air pollution is a pressing issue that has severe effects on human health and the planet. It is estimated that in 2019, 4.2 million premature deaths worldwide were caused by ambient (outdoor) air pollution. The good news is that there are many examples of successful policies and actions that help reduce air pollution. For instance, the Clean Air Act in the US has effectively cut pollution for over 45 years, even as the economy has grown. This has led to Americans breathing less pollution and facing lower risks of serious health issues and premature death. In addition, individuals can also play a part in reducing air pollution through simple actions such as driving less, using energy-efficient appliances, and planting trees.

Clean technologies for industry

The Clean Air Act has been instrumental in reducing air pollution and improving public health. The Act has prompted the deployment of clean technologies and innovations that reduce emissions and control costs. The EPA has taken steps to limit emissions from power plants, motor vehicles, and industrial facilities, leading to significant reductions in air pollution.

One example of clean technology for industry is the use of scrubbers, which are pollution control devices that remove air pollutants like sulfur dioxide, chlorine, hydrogen sulfide, and hydrogen chloride from industrial exhaust. Wet scrubbers use water or other liquids to absorb particles or gases from the air, while dry scrubbers spray dry reagents into the flue stream to neutralize gases before they enter the atmosphere.

Another technology is the electrostatic precipitator, which has been used to remove particulate matter from industrial pollutants. Nanotechnology advancements have increased the effectiveness of these devices by coating collection plates with nanomaterials, improving the capture of tiny particles that contribute to respiratory issues and early mortality.

The transportation industry is a significant source of air pollution due to internal combustion engines. The development of electric vehicles (EVs) and hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) offers a sustainable solution. EVs eliminate tailpipe emissions, preventing greenhouse gases from entering the atmosphere. FCEVs produce no tailpipe emissions other than water vapor and are more efficient than conventional internal combustion engines.

In addition to transportation, initiatives such as smart city technologies and biofiltration systems that utilize plants and microorganisms to purge the air of contaminants are also being explored. Novel electrochemical techniques are being developed to capture CO2 from industrial emissions and transform it into valuable products, such as carbon-based fuels, chemicals, or building materials. These advancements in clean technologies for industry play a crucial role in reducing air pollution and protecting public health.

Energy-efficient homes and appliances

Energy efficiency is a key component of the fight against air pollution. Energy-efficient homes and appliances play a significant role in reducing air pollution and its associated health and environmental risks.

The Clean Air Act, implemented for over forty-five years, has successfully cut pollution while allowing the U.S. economy to grow. The act has reduced harmful emissions from transportation, power plants, and manufacturing. New cars, trucks, and non-road engines now use advanced emission control technologies, and power plants have significantly reduced emissions that contribute to acid rain and harm public health.

To further support these efforts, individuals can make energy-efficient improvements to their homes and choose energy-efficient appliances. For instance, switching to electric or hand-powered lawn equipment can significantly reduce pollution as gas-powered lawnmowers and leaf blowers often lack pollution control devices. Similarly, choosing energy-efficient appliances, such as refrigerators with advanced adaptive compressors, can reduce energy consumption and associated emissions.

Energy-efficient home improvements can include installing new exterior doors and windows that meet Energy Star requirements, insulation and air sealing, and energy-efficient heating systems. These improvements not only reduce energy consumption but can also qualify for tax credits. The U.S. Internal Revenue Service offers tax credits for certain energy-efficient improvements made after January 1, 2023, providing incentives for homeowners to reduce their carbon footprint.

By combining individual actions, such as choosing energy-efficient appliances and improving home energy efficiency, with broader initiatives like the Clean Air Act, we can collectively make significant progress in reducing air pollution and mitigating its impact on human health and the environment.

Clean transport

Transport is a significant contributor to air pollution, with cars and vans being the biggest source of nitrogen oxides (NOx) in the air. These toxic chemicals are produced when fuel is burned and can cause serious harm to human health and the planet. To reduce air pollution from transport, a shift towards more sustainable and environmentally friendly modes of transport is necessary.

One way to achieve cleaner transport is by encouraging active and sustainable travel options such as walking, wheeling, and cycling. These modes of transport do not produce emissions and can improve air quality, especially in urban areas. Additionally, promoting the use of public transportation, such as buses, trains, and subways, can help reduce the number of cars on the road and, consequently, decrease vehicle emissions.

Another important strategy is the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) and alternative power sources. Electric cars, trucks, and buses produce zero tailpipe emissions, which significantly improves air quality. Governments can incentivize the purchase of electric vehicles through subsidies, grants, or tax benefits, making them more accessible to the public.

Furthermore, the implementation of low-emission zones and congestion charges in cities can encourage the use of cleaner vehicles. For example, London's Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) discourages highly polluting vehicles from entering the city center by charging a daily fee. This has led to a reduction in air pollution levels within the zone.

Lastly, improving fuel efficiency in traditional combustion engines can also contribute to cleaner transport. This includes advancements in evaporative controls, catalyst design, and fuel control systems, as well as the development of hybrid vehicles that use both electricity and traditional fuels. These improvements can reduce the amount of harmful emissions released into the atmosphere.

By implementing these strategies and prioritizing sustainable transport, we can significantly reduce air pollution, protect public health, and mitigate the impacts of climate change.

Green urban planning

Air pollution has been a significant concern for decades, with the Clean Air Act in the US aiming to reduce harmful emissions from transportation, power plants, and manufacturing industries. While the act has achieved some success, the impact of climate change-fuelled wildfires and extreme heat has added new challenges.

The effectiveness of green spaces in reducing air pollution depends on various factors, including the type of vegetation, its location, and the specific pollutants present. For instance, planting tall vegetation near emission sources like roadsides can reduce ventilation and exacerbate pollution levels. On the other hand, dense, continuous low-level vegetation like hedges in street canyons can act as a barrier, channelling pollutants away from pedestrians. Similarly, mid- to high-level vegetation, such as trees, is suitable for open road environments, creating a barrier between the road and its surroundings. However, urban planners must consider the potential for certain tree species to produce high amounts of pollen or biogenic VOCs, which can negatively impact air quality.

To effectively implement green urban planning, it is essential to consider the specific context and site conditions. While vegetation can help mitigate pollution, it is not a standalone solution. Reducing anthropogenic emissions, such as through cleaner energy production and reduced reliance on diesel vehicles, remains the primary focus of air quality improvement strategies.

In conclusion, green urban planning has the potential to positively impact air quality, particularly at the borough-to-city scale. However, it should be combined with other emission reduction strategies to achieve significant improvements in air quality.

Power generation and renewable energy sources

Power generation is a major source of air pollution, with electricity generation being the main contributor to industrial air pollution. The combustion of fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas releases toxic air pollution and greenhouse gases, threatening air quality, human health, and the climate.

Renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, geothermal, and hydropower, offer a cleaner alternative to traditional power generation. These sources produce little to no emissions that cause air pollution and significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. For example, solar power has a minimal impact on the environment, with zero carbon emissions or air pollutants, although the manufacturing of photovoltaic (PV) cells generates hazardous waste. Wind power is also extremely clean, with rare exceptions of emissions, and it does not require water for cooling like some other energy sources. Hydropower is considered a clean and renewable source because it does not directly produce pollutants, and the source of power is regenerated.

The benefits of renewable energy sources are clear. A study found that wind power provided $2 billion in health benefits, with a significant proportion helping racial and ethnic minorities and low-income populations. Another study estimated the annual life cycle and public health costs associated with coal in the United States at $74.6 billion. Additionally, renewable energy sources are becoming increasingly inexpensive and popular, with the UN suggesting that renewable sources could provide 65% of the world's electricity supply by 2030.

The transition to renewable energy is well underway in some countries. In 2015, 9.68% of total electricity generation in the United States was from renewable sources, with solar power contributing 5.6% of that. Wind power capacity has also been increasing, with more than 20% of global installed wind power capacity located in the United States at the end of 2010. China, the world's largest producer of coal, is also scaling up its renewable energy capacity with a focus on solar PV panels.

While challenges remain, such as the environmental impact of water usage for solar power facilities and the land usage and habitat disruption associated with wind power, the benefits of renewable energy sources in reducing air pollution and improving human health and the climate are significant.

Frequently asked questions