Tech Innovations For Cleaner Air And Healthier Living

Air pollution is a pressing issue that poses a threat to human health and the environment. It is caused by various human activities, such as industrial processes and transportation, which release harmful substances into the atmosphere. To combat this, technology plays a crucial role in reducing and mitigating air pollution. From regulatory measures to innovative solutions, here is an overview of how technology is being leveraged to address this global challenge.

Electric cars

One of the most significant benefits of electric vehicles is that they emit no pollutants. This is because the only emissions come from the power plant that creates the electricity. Electric vehicles (EVs) typically have a smaller carbon footprint than gasoline cars, even when accounting for the electricity used for charging. EVs use approximately 87%–91% of the energy from the battery and regenerative braking to propel the vehicle, while gasoline vehicles only convert about 16–25% of the energy from gasoline into movement.

In addition to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, electric cars also improve air quality. They eliminate tailpipe emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and PM2.5, which are harmful to human health. EVs also reduce particulates from brake wear due to regenerative braking. Regenerative braking converts the energy from the moving vehicle into electricity, which is then used to recharge the battery, reducing the wear of the brake discs.

However, it is important to note that electric cars do not completely eliminate road pollution. If they are heavier, they could increase tyre wear and road dust pollution. Non-exhaust emissions, such as those from brake, tyre, and road wear, still contribute to air pollution. Research on the impact of tyre wear on air pollution is still ongoing, but it is believed to be a significant source of emissions.

To reduce pollution from tyre wear, improvements in tyre design are needed to create tyres that wear less often. Additionally, reducing dust on roads and implementing more automated driving could help decrease aggressive stops and starts, further reducing tyre wear.

While electric cars offer a more sustainable mode of transportation, there are still some disadvantages to consider. Electric cars require a lot of electricity to operate, which can create pollution and strain on the electrical grid, especially if the electricity is generated from fossil fuels. Additionally, electric cars produce emissions during the manufacturing process, particularly from battery manufacturing, which can be harmful to the environment.

Despite these drawbacks, electric cars remain a better option for the environment than gas-powered cars. They reduce air pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and noise pollution. As technology improves and more renewable energy sources are adopted, the environmental benefits of electric cars will only increase.

Renewable energy sources

The most common renewable energy sources include wind, solar, and geothermal energy.

Wind Energy

Wind energy is one of the cleanest sources of energy as wind turbines do not directly affect air pollution emissions and do not require water for cooling. Wind turbines can be placed anywhere with high-speed winds, from hilltops to open water, and wind energy is now one of the cheapest energy sources in countries like the United States.

Solar Energy

Solar energy uses photovoltaic cells to convert sunlight into electricity. It is a very clean energy source as it does not produce air pollutants or contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. However, the manufacturing of solar panels may produce some emissions. Solar energy is also becoming increasingly popular, with 46% of all new generating capacity in the United States in 2021 coming from solar.

Geothermal Energy

Geothermal energy relies on the heat produced within the Earth. Water is injected deep underground, heated by the Earth's molten interior, and returned as hot water or steam to power a turbine and generate electricity. Geothermal energy produces only one-sixth of the carbon dioxide of a natural gas power plant and little to no NO2 or SO2 pollution.

Hydroelectricity

Hydropower is the largest renewable energy source for electricity in the United States, although wind energy is expected to take over soon. Small hydroelectric plants with an installed capacity below about 40 megawatts are considered more renewable as they cause less environmental damage by only diverting a fraction of the water flow.

Biomass

Biomass is often considered a renewable energy source, but the American Lung Association opposes biomass combustion as it creates particle pollution and releases other carcinogens. However, pyrolysis, where biomass is heated in an anaerobic environment, is a potential alternative that produces fewer air pollutants.

Pollution control systems

Air Pollution Control

Air pollution control aims to reduce or eliminate the emission of substances that compromise the environment or human health. This involves employing techniques to capture or neutralise pollutants before they escape into the atmosphere. The primary sources of air pollution include industry and transportation, which are subject to regulatory measures and emission limits.

Control of Particulates

Fine particulates, or airborne particles, can be removed from polluted air through various physical processes. Common equipment for collecting these particulates includes cyclones, scrubbers, electrostatic precipitators, and baghouse filters. Each type of equipment is designed to suit specific particle characteristics and airstream conditions, with cyclones being effective for coarse particulates and scrubbers for flammable or explosive dusts.

Catalytic Converters

Catalytic converters are devices used in gasoline and diesel vehicles to transform dangerous air pollutants into less harmful ones. They catalyze a redox reaction, converting carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxide into carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide. While catalytic converters have some drawbacks, such as reduced fuel efficiency and a warm-up period, they significantly reduce the environmental and health impacts of vehicle exhaust.

Scrubbers

Scrubbers are pollution control devices that remove air pollutants like sulfur dioxide, chlorine, and hydrogen sulfide from industrial exhaust. Wet scrubbers use a liquid, usually water, to absorb particles or gases, while dry scrubbers spray dry reagents into the flue stream to neutralise gases before they enter the atmosphere. Scrubbers are beneficial in preventing air pollution from industrial centres.

Low-Emitting Consumer Products

The development of low-emitting or VOC-free (Volatile Organic Compound-free) consumer products and building materials helps reduce indoor air pollution. Paints, cleaners, adhesives, and even furniture can off-gas VOCs, which can build up without proper ventilation. By using low-emitting alternatives, individuals can improve indoor air quality and reduce their exposure to harmful chemicals.

Other Pollution Control Measures

In addition to air pollution control, there are other areas of pollution control that are crucial for environmental preservation:

• Wastewater treatment: This involves processing wastewater at sewage treatment facilities to remove contaminants and ensure safe water returns to the environment.
• Solid-waste management: Effective solid-waste management includes proper disposal systems such as sanitary landfills and recycling practices.
• Hazardous-waste management: Hazardous-waste management focuses on containing and safely disposing of substances that are harmful to living things and the environment.

Eco-friendly food packaging

Technology has a crucial role in reducing air pollution, from multi-pollutant monitoring devices to low-emitting consumer products. One significant way to address this global issue is through the adoption of eco-friendly food packaging, which not only reduces pollution but also safeguards human health. Here are some detailed insights into eco-friendly food packaging, focusing on its benefits and various types:

One of the key advantages of eco-friendly food packaging is its ability to reduce the transfer of chemicals into food, which is a significant concern with conventional plastic packaging. Exposure to chemicals like bisphenol-A (BPA), a known endocrine disruptor, can lead to health issues such as infertility and metabolic disorders. Eco-friendly packaging alternatives have been shown to reduce the migration of these chemicals into food, making them a healthier choice.

There are several types of eco-friendly food packaging options available on the market. Glass containers, for example, are reusable, recyclable, and durable. They are easy to clean and transport, making them a convenient option for storing food and drinks. However, glass lids may not be leak-proof, so plastic or bamboo lids with silicone seals are often used for portable containers. Stainless steel containers are another popular choice, known for their durability, rust resistance, and heat resistance. They are also reusable and recyclable, making them a sustainable option.

Bamboo-based food packaging is also gaining traction due to its biodegradability, durability, and heat resistance. Bamboo is used in various products, including countertop jars, lunch boxes, bread boxes, and serving bowls. However, bamboo containers are less durable than glass or stainless steel and may wear out more quickly. Rice husk is another innovative material used in eco-friendly packaging. It is a low-cost, renewable, and biodegradable byproduct of rice farming with bio-adsorbent properties, making it effective at absorbing pollutants.

Gelatin films are becoming a popular choice for food packaging due to their nontoxic nature, low cost, and reliable film-forming capacity. These films are filled with antimicrobial cellulose, which inhibits the growth of pathogens, making them a safer alternative to conventional plastics. Eco-friendly disposables, such as servingware, utensils, and cookware, are also available for restaurants and catering businesses, providing a sustainable alternative to foam and paper products.

By adopting these eco-friendly food packaging options, individuals and businesses can play a crucial role in reducing air pollution, protecting the environment, and promoting human health. These alternatives offer functionality, sustainability, and safety, making them a necessary step towards a greener future.

Passive homes

One of the key benefits of passive homes is improved indoor air quality. These homes utilise continuous mechanical ventilation systems, which filter incoming air to remove pollutants. This is particularly important as many indoor air pollutants come from indoor sources such as cooking, cleaning products, paints, and even respiratory activities.

A study conducted in a passive house in Colorado found that outdoor particulate matter (PM) had little effect on indoor levels, while activities like walking and cooking significantly increased indoor PM levels. Carbon dioxide (CO2) levels were also greatly influenced by these activities, with cooking being the larger contributor. The study also revealed that due to very low air exchange rates, CO2 and PM levels took a long time to decrease once they had elevated. However, it is important to note that the overall air quality in the passive house was generally good, except during cooking, which required additional ventilation through open windows or doors.

The implementation of passive homes can significantly reduce air pollution, especially in urban areas. By minimising energy consumption and effectively managing indoor air quality, passive homes can contribute to a healthier and more sustainable living environment.

In addition to passive homes, other technological advancements, such as catalytic converters, scrubbers, and low-emitting consumer products, also play a crucial role in reducing air pollution. These innovations work together to address both indoor and outdoor air pollution, protecting the environment and public health.

Frequently asked questions