Brian Barton
Reducing pollution is a pressing issue, with air pollution being the world's biggest environmental health risk. Strategies to reduce pollution can be implemented at the individual, community, and government levels.
At the individual level, people can reduce their energy consumption, use public transport, and opt for fuel-efficient vehicles. Communities can implement Low Impact Development (LID) and better site design practices, such as minimising impervious cover, conserving natural areas, and treating stormwater runoff. Governments can encourage the use of cleaner production techniques and set standards and regulations to reduce emissions.
By combining individual, community, and government efforts, we can create healthier and more sustainable cities.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Urban microclimatic | A local set of atmospheric conditions (wind, sun, humidity etc.) that has a significant influence on the concentration of air pollutants. |
| Urban ventilation | Transport pollutants by advection and mixes it with cleaner air by turbulence. |
| Trees | Absorb the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide and leafs beneficially capture and contain nitrogen dioxide. |
| Building heights | The difference in building height influences the mixing of pollutants with clean air. |
| HEPA filtration | Use HEPA filters to reduce air pollution. |
| Air-intake locations | Place air intakes on rooftops or on sides of buildings that do not face roads to decrease indoor pollutant concentrations. |
| Sound proofing | Tighter buildings can be achieved using soundproofing or energy efficiency measures. |
| Land-use buffers | Separate sensitive land uses (e.g. residences, schools) from traffic and other sources of air pollution. |
| Vegetation or wall barriers | Vegetation barriers can reduce air pollution by deposition on leaf surfaces and reduced need for air conditioning. |
| Street-side trees, hedges and vegetation | Trees and hedges can reduce air pollution. |
| Decking over highways | Capping highways with decking has been shown to reduce concentrations. |
| Placement of buildings | Urban design including placement of buildings. |
| Garden and park locations | Siting parks requires consideration of competing factors. |
| Active travel locations | Bicycle or other active travel lanes can be separated from traffic to reduce exposure for people breathing heavily during exercise. |
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What You'll Learn
Reduce impervious cover
Reducing impervious cover is essential to minimising the environmental and health impacts of urban development. Impervious surfaces such as asphalt, concrete, brick, and stone are crucial for infrastructure but can disrupt the natural water cycle and lead to flooding, water pollution, erosion, and the urban heat island effect. Here are some strategies to reduce impervious cover:
Disconnect Impervious Surfaces
Disconnecting impervious surfaces such as roofs and roads from stormwater drains and redirecting runoff to suitable pervious areas can help reduce the volume of stormwater and the pollutants that flow into water bodies.
Use Pervious Pavement Materials
Using pervious pavement materials, such as permeable concrete, porous asphalt, interlocking pavers, or gravel and grass pavers, allows stormwater to infiltrate the ground rather than becoming runoff. This reduces flooding and improves groundwater recharge.
Install Green Roofs
Green roofs provide a vegetative layer that absorbs rainwater, provides insulation, and mitigates the urban heat island effect by reducing the amount of heat-absorbing impervious surface area. Extensive green roofs are lighter and low-maintenance, while intensive green roofs support a wider variety of plants but require more maintenance.
Reduce the Size of Paved Areas
Minimising the length and width of driveways, the size of parking spaces, and the overall area of pavements can help decrease impervious cover. Shared parking areas and driveways can also reduce the total amount of impervious surfaces.
Narrower Roads and Slimmer Sidewalks
Many residential streets are wider than necessary for vehicles and parking. Narrower roads can help reduce traffic speeds and improve pedestrian safety. Slimmer sidewalks, located away from the street, can also reduce impervious cover while enhancing pedestrian mobility.
Smaller Parking Lots
Parking lots can be made more efficient by minimising standard stall dimensions, providing compact car spaces, and incorporating narrow parking lanes. Using pervious pavement in parking lots can further reduce impervious cover.
Cluster Development
Clustering development components, such as houses, closer together can reduce the amount of road, driveway, and sidewalk needed. This approach can also encourage shared parking areas and promote a more compact and walkable community design.
By implementing these strategies, architects, urban planners, and developers can help mitigate the negative impacts of impervious surfaces and create more sustainable and resilient urban environments.
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Use trees
Trees are an effective way to reduce air pollution. They can improve air quality in direct and indirect ways.
Direct Ways Trees Reduce Pollution
Trees directly remove pollutants from the air. They act as the "lungs" of an ecosystem, absorbing carbon dioxide and emitting oxygen. They also act as the "liver" of an ecosystem, filtering atmospheric pollutants like sulphur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide through their leaves.
Trees are particularly effective at removing particulate matter (PM). PM comes in the form of tiny particles of organic chemicals, acids, metals, and dust emitted from fossil-fuel-burning vehicles, factories, and construction sites. The largest of these particles measure up to 10 micrometers across (PM10s), while PM2.5s measure 2.5 micrometres across, and there are even smaller nanoparticles.
Fine particulate matter can easily penetrate the human respiratory system, causing lung and cardiovascular diseases or exacerbating respiratory illness. It has also been linked to inflammation and heart disease. By one estimate, 8.9 million deaths a year globally could be attributable to exposure to outdoor fine particulate matter.
Trees can help reduce PM in two main ways: dispersion and deposition. By crashing into trees and plants, concentrated clouds of minuscule particles get dispersed and diluted by the air, decreasing the risk of inhalation by humans. PM can also be trapped in the waxy, hairy leaves of trees and shrubs. When it rains, most of these particles are washed away by water into drains.
Indirect Ways Trees Reduce Pollution
Trees can also help reduce pollution indirectly by shading surfaces and reducing temperatures. If buildings are shaded by trees, it reduces the need for conventional air conditioning and the emissions of greenhouse gases that come with it. Plus, lower temperatures decrease the risk of harmful pollutants like ground-level ozone, which commonly spike on hot days in urban areas.
Choosing the Right Trees
When it comes to choosing trees to reduce pollution, not all trees are created equal. To make the most difference in air quality in a street or city, the right tree must be selected for the job.
The extent to which each species performs filtering activity depends mostly on canopy size, leaf size, and leaf structure. Bigger canopies can trap more particles than smaller ones, and larger leaves can trap more pollutants than small ones. When it comes to leaf type, it is those with rough, rugged, and hairy surfaces that act as the "best filters" for PM.
Conifers, like pines and cypresses, are good natural purifiers because they are an evergreen species. However, many conifer species are very sensitive to salt levels in soils, which tend to be high in urban areas, especially where salt is used to de-ice roads. Additionally, their year-round canopy can block sunlight from melting snow and ice, which can lead to road traffic problems in cities with cold temperatures.
Some deciduous species can also have side effects. For example, trees commonly found in cities in the northern hemisphere, such as poplars or black gum trees, can emit high levels of VOCs (volatile organic compounds). Ideally, you want to identify species that can maximise PM absorption while minimising ozone-precursor production.
Native trees are generally better for air quality than non-native species, as they emit fewer VOCs. However, this is not always the case, and some of the best species for air pollution reduction are non-native.
When selecting trees for urban areas, it is essential to consider the local context, including wind direction and landscape structure, as these factors can affect how pollution moves. In narrow streets surrounded by tall buildings, for example, airflow can trap pollutants close to the ground, and planting tall trees with big canopies can make matters worse by preventing the pollution from dispersing. In such cases, hedges or green walls are generally preferred over trees.
Ensuring biodiversity is also key, even if one tree species is a standout winner in terms of its pollutant-trapping abilities. No more than 5-10% of an urban forest should be made up of the same species or family. It is also important to be realistic about maintenance and lifespan—plants that require little attention and will last several decades are preferable.
Examples of Effective Trees
- Silver birch
- Yew
- Elder
- Conifers (pines, cypresses)
- Silver maple
- Honey locust
- Hemlocks
- Junipers
- Elms
- Horse chestnuts
- Basswood
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Reduce vehicle emissions
Reducing vehicle emissions is a key part of tackling air pollution. Here are some detailed instructions to reduce vehicle emissions:
Choose a Cleaner Vehicle
When purchasing a new vehicle, opt for fuel-efficient models with low greenhouse gas emissions. Electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles are excellent choices for reducing emissions. Even if you require a larger vehicle, you can still find fuel-efficient options within that category.
Maintain Your Vehicle
Regular maintenance and tune-ups are essential for keeping your vehicle running efficiently and reducing emissions. Follow the manufacturer's maintenance schedule, use the recommended motor oil, and keep your tyres properly inflated. Newer vehicles have complex emission controls, so ensure you address any issues indicated by the "check engine" light promptly.
Drive Efficiently
The way you drive can significantly impact your vehicle's emissions. Avoid unnecessary acceleration and high speeds, as these increase fuel consumption and emissions. Drive at a steady pace, anticipate the road ahead, and avoid abrupt stops and starts.
Minimise Vehicle Use
Plan your trips ahead of time to reduce the number of journeys and distance travelled. Consider using alternative transport like walking, cycling, or taking public transportation. If public transport isn't an option, carpooling or ride-sharing can help reduce emissions and save you money.
Reduce Idling
Unnecessary idling wastes fuel and pollutes the air. Modern vehicles do not require prolonged warming up, so turn on the engine only when you're ready to drive. If you anticipate being stationary for a while, turn off the engine, as restarting it uses less fuel than idling.
Optimise Deliveries
When receiving home deliveries or shopping online, consolidate your packages into one shipment and opt for longer delivery windows. This helps delivery vehicles optimise their routes and avoid unnecessary trips.
Use Efficient Equipment
If you use equipment like lawnmowers or gardening tools, opt for electric or battery-powered options instead of gas-powered engines, which emit significant pollutants.
Plant Trees
While not directly related to vehicles, urban planning can play a role in reducing vehicle emissions. Strategically planting trees can help capture pollutants and improve air quality. However, ensure that trees do not block wind flow, as this can hinder the dispersion of pollutants.
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Reduce energy consumption
Reducing energy consumption is a critical aspect of pollution reduction in site design, especially considering that buildings account for a significant proportion of energy usage and emissions. Here are some detailed strategies to reduce energy consumption in the context of site design:
Passive Strategies and Conservation Practices
Climate-responsive design is a crucial passive strategy. This involves orienting and sizing windows to balance daylighting and heat loss, as well as using high-performance building envelopes with long-term insulation and air barrier performance. Deciduous trees can be strategically placed to provide summer shading, and windbreaks can be incorporated into the landscape design. Additionally, creating attractive outdoor spaces encourages occupants to spend time outdoors, reducing the need for additional heating or cooling loads.
Efficient HVAC and Lighting Systems
It is essential to specify energy-efficient HVAC equipment and systems that meet or exceed relevant standards. Strategies such as reducing excessive air changes and using energy recovery systems for makeup air can be employed. Lighting systems should be designed to consume less than 1 watt/square foot for ambient lighting. Energy Star® approved and/or FEMP-designated energy-efficient products, or those meeting or exceeding Department of Energy standards, are recommended.
Renewable or High-Efficiency Energy Sources
Integrating renewable energy sources, such as solar heating for hot water, photovoltaics, geothermal space heating, and groundwater cooling, can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of a building. On-site renewable energy technologies, such as solar water heating and geothermal heat pumps, can be considered, taking advantage of building scale. Larger-scale solutions like photovoltaics, solar thermal, and wind turbines can also be evaluated.
Optimizing Building Performance and Control Strategies
Energy modeling programs and centralized remote meter reading can help optimize building performance by providing accurate analysis of energy use. Occupancy sensors, CO2 sensors, and other air quality alarms can be employed during operation to optimize system control strategies. HVAC night and weekend setbacks can be implemented to reduce heating and cooling loads when the building is unoccupied.
Water Saving Technologies
Integrating water-saving technologies is another way to reduce the energy burden associated with providing potable water, contributing to overall energy consumption reduction.
By implementing these strategies, it is possible to significantly reduce energy consumption in site design, contributing to both environmental sustainability and cost savings.
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Reduce indoor air pollution
Indoor air quality is a key factor in overall health and well-being, and poor indoor air quality can lead to a host of health issues, from respiratory problems to headaches and fatigue. Here are some detailed tips to reduce indoor air pollution and improve the air you breathe within your home or office:
Source Control: Identify and eliminate common sources of indoor air pollution. This can include smoking, which releases a host of harmful chemicals into the air. If you or anyone in your household smokes, make a concerted effort to quit, or at least, smoke outdoors, well away from windows and doors to prevent second-hand smoke from entering the home. Another common source is the use of harsh cleaning chemicals and air fresheners, which can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air. Opt for natural, non-toxic cleaning products, and ensure good ventilation when using any chemical substances.
Ventilation: Proper ventilation is key to reducing indoor air pollution. Open windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate, especially when cooking, cleaning, or after any activity that may generate pollutants, like painting or using glue. If your home is equipped with a ventilation system, ensure it is well-maintained and regularly cleaned to prevent the buildup of dust and mold, which can be circulated throughout the home if left unchecked. Consider investing in a mechanical ventilation system with HEPA filters, which can effectively trap airborne pollutants and improve overall indoor air quality.
Air Purifying Plants: Incorporate air-purifying plants into your interior design. Certain plants, like peace lilies, spider plants, and aloe vera, are natural air purifiers, absorbing common indoor air pollutants and releasing clean oxygen back into the air. Place these plants in well-lit areas, particularly in rooms where you spend a lot of time, like the bedroom or living room. In addition to their air-purifying properties, houseplants can also boost your mood and create a more relaxing and aesthetically pleasing environment.
Minimize Dust: Dust is a common indoor air pollutant that can trigger allergies and respiratory issues. Reduce dust buildup by regularly vacuuming and mopping floors, using a microfiber cloth to capture and remove dust particles rather than simply displacing them. Pay particular attention to high-traffic areas and use doormats to reduce the amount of dirt and pollutants that are tracked into your home. Wash bedding and fabrics regularly, as these can harbor dust mites and other allergens, and consider investing in dust mite-proof covers for pillows and mattresses.
Control Moisture: Excess moisture can lead to the growth of mold and mildew, which can cause serious indoor air quality issues. Keep humidity levels in check by using exhaust fans when cooking, showering, or doing laundry, and ensure that your home is well-ventilated to prevent moisture buildup. Regularly check for any signs of water leaks, and if using a humidifier, ensure it is well-maintained and the water is changed daily to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold.
By implementing these measures, you can significantly improve the indoor air quality in your home or office, creating a healthier and more comfortable environment.
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Frequently asked questions
Here are some ways to reduce air pollution through site design:
- Using trees and vegetation to capture pollutants and improve air quality.
- Considering building heights and urban geometry to influence the dispersion of pollutants.
- Creating "ventilated corridors" to improve air circulation in cities.
- Reducing impervious surfaces, such as parking lots, roads, and sidewalks, to minimize runoff and promote infiltration.
- Implementing Low Impact Development (LID) and Better Site Design techniques to minimize disturbance, increase infiltration, and filter pollutants.
Here are some ways to reduce pollution through individual choices:
- Opting for walking, biking, or public transportation instead of driving.
- Choosing fuel-efficient or electric vehicles.
- Conserving energy by turning off appliances and lights when not in use.
- Using energy-efficient appliances and light bulbs.
- Using environmentally friendly cleaning products to reduce water pollution.
Industries can:
- Implement cleaner production techniques and pollution control measures.
- Use data from pollution inventories to improve manufacturing processes and reduce emissions.
Governments can:
- Develop and enforce environmental regulations, such as emission standards and pollution control measures.
- Utilize pollution data for environmental planning, management, and protection initiatives.
