Strategies To Combat Air Pollution And Breathe Easy

Air pollution is a serious global health problem that can be mitigated through collective action and individual behavioural changes. While policy changes to reduce emissions at their source are the most effective solution, there are also many small but critical sources of air pollution in our homes and neighbourhoods that we can address. These include vehicles, construction equipment, lawnmowers, dry cleaners, backyard fires, and auto-body shops. By taking simple steps such as using more sustainable transport options, switching to electric or hand-powered lawn equipment, and conserving energy, we can significantly improve air quality and protect our health and the environment.

Reduce vehicle usage, consider carpooling, and opt for electric vehicles

Reducing vehicle usage is a crucial step in conserving air quality and there are several ways to achieve this. One effective method is carpooling, which involves sharing rides with colleagues, friends, or neighbours. This approach reduces traffic congestion and emissions per person, particularly in urban areas. Many cars have multiple seats, yet a significant number of personal car trips are made with only the driver present. Carpooling fills these empty seats, decreasing pollution and traffic while fostering social connections and community-building. It also saves money for all parties involved. To facilitate carpooling, individuals can utilise ride-sharing websites and applications that enable users to publicise open spots in their vehicles or safely find carpool partners.

For those who cannot carpool, opting for electric vehicles (EVs) is a more environmentally friendly choice than traditional gasoline-powered cars. EVs have zero tailpipe emissions, making them a cleaner option for the atmosphere. While generating electricity to charge EVs may produce carbon pollution, the overall GHG emissions associated with EVs are typically lower than those of gasoline cars. This is due to the energy efficiency of EVs, which use a significantly higher percentage of their battery energy for propulsion compared to gasoline vehicles. Additionally, as renewable energy sources like wind and solar become more prevalent, the carbon footprint of EVs will further decrease.

It is important to address some common misconceptions about electric vehicles. Firstly, EVs do not contribute more to climate change than gasoline cars due to power plant emissions. Secondly, while manufacturing EV batteries requires additional energy, resulting in higher initial carbon pollution, EVs produce lower total GHG emissions over their lifetime. Thirdly, the increasing number of EVs entering the market will not collapse the power grid; instead, the grid can handle the charging demands, and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology even allows EVs to supply power back to the grid. Lastly, EVs have sufficient range for daily travel and are as safe as comparable gasoline vehicles.

To summarise, reducing vehicle usage through carpooling and adopting electric vehicles are effective strategies for conserving air quality. Carpooling reduces traffic and emissions, fosters social connections, and saves costs, while electric vehicles offer a cleaner and more energy-efficient alternative to traditional gasoline cars, contributing to a reduction in air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. By implementing these measures, individuals can play a significant role in improving air quality and mitigating the environmental impact of transportation.

Avoid open burning and backyard fires, especially in cities

Open burning and backyard fires are a major source of air pollution. The combustion process releases carbon dioxide, other gases, and solid substances directly into the air. This can have serious effects on people with respiratory problems, and it can also cause smoke and odor nuisance conditions for neighbors.

To avoid contributing to air pollution, it is important to be aware of the regulations in your area. Many cities and towns have strict rules prohibiting or limiting open burning. For example, open burning is prohibited in 22 densely built and populated cities and towns in Massachusetts. In New York State, open burning is regulated under Part 215, which describes the types of fires and materials that are allowed. It is important to check with local authorities before starting any open fire to avoid penalties and endangering others.

If open burning is allowed in your area, there are still important safety precautions to follow. Always obtain the necessary permits and follow local guidelines. Only burn clean, dry firewood to minimize smoke emissions. Avoid burning trash, leaves, and other materials that can release harmful substances into the air. Never use flammable liquids as fire starters, and always have fire extinguishing materials, such as water and shovels, nearby. Be mindful of weather conditions, and avoid burning when it is windy or dry, as this can increase the risk of wildfires.

Instead of open burning, consider safer alternatives. For example, dispose of leaves and yard waste through mulching or composting, which is better for the environment than burning. For a cleaner commute, opt for carpooling, public transportation, biking, or walking whenever possible. These small changes in our daily routines can significantly improve the quality of the air we breathe.

Use energy-efficient appliances and reduce electricity consumption

Energy efficiency is a critical aspect of reducing air pollution and its negative impacts on ecosystems. By using energy-efficient appliances, we can significantly reduce our carbon footprint and help fight climate change.

One of the most effective ways to reduce electricity consumption is to switch to energy-efficient lighting. Replacing old incandescent light bulbs with energy-efficient LEDs or CFLs is a great starting point. These modern alternatives consume significantly less energy while providing the same, if not better, illumination.

Households should also consider upgrading their major appliances, such as refrigerators, ovens, dishwashers, and washing machines, to more energy-efficient models. For example, an Energy Star-certified refrigerator uses 35% less electricity than an older model, while an Energy Star-rated washing machine reduces energy consumption by up to 20% and water consumption by a third. These improvements not only help the environment but also result in substantial cost savings for consumers, with potential reductions in annual energy bills of hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

Additionally, it is important to be mindful of daily habits that can contribute to electricity consumption. Simple actions such as turning off lights when not in use, unplugging idle electronics, and being mindful of thermostat settings can collectively make a significant difference in reducing electricity usage.

Finally, when making new purchases, it is beneficial to look for the Energy Star label. This label, provided by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, is a reliable indicator of energy efficiency in appliances, buildings, and equipment. By choosing Energy Star-certified products, consumers can be confident that they are making a smart choice for both their wallets and the environment.

Choose environmentally-safe paints and cleaning products. Use non-aerosol sprays

When it comes to conserving air quality and reducing air pollution, the choices we make about the products we use in our homes and offices are significant. Some products we use in indoor spaces contain smog-forming chemicals that can evaporate into the air, contributing to poor indoor air quality and air pollution when they are released outside. Paints and cleaning products are two such categories of products that can have eco-friendly alternatives with a lower impact on the environment and our health.

Environmentally-safe paints

Paints are known to contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) that are released into the air during and after painting. These compounds are harmful to human health and the environment, causing respiratory irritation and other health issues. To reduce the impact of painting on air pollution, it is essential to choose paints that are environmentally friendly, non-toxic, and zero-VOC. Several trusted brands offer paint options that are safe for both your home and the environment. For example, The Organic & Natural Paint Co.'s AFM Safecoat products are medically approved, 100% VOC-free, and free of HAPs. Benjamin Moore's Eco Spec line is another excellent option, as it is also 100% VOC-free, Green Seal certified, and uses sustainable packaging. Clare Paint is another brand that offers zero-VOC and Greenguard Gold Certified paints, along with low-waste production methods, recycled packaging, and water conservation systems.

Environmentally-safe cleaning products

Cleaning products are necessary for maintaining a healthy and attractive indoor environment, but they can also present health and environmental concerns. Some cleaning products contain chemicals associated with eye, skin, and respiratory irritation, and their concentrated forms can be hazardous, creating handling, storage, and disposal issues. Additionally, certain ingredients in cleaning products can be toxic to aquatic life if they end up in water bodies. To reduce these impacts, it is essential to opt for green cleaning products that are safer for both human health and the environment. The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides online tools like the Design for the Environment (DfE) Program and the Safer Choice Standard to help consumers find certified antimicrobial, eco-friendly, and effective cleaning products.

Non-aerosol sprays

Aerosol products, commonly found in cleaning and hygiene products, dispense liquids or solids as a mist or spray using compressed gases as propellants. These propellants, along with VOCs in the products, can contribute to respiratory irritation, headaches, and other health issues, especially with prolonged exposure. Additionally, some aerosol ingredients, such as certain propellants, are classified as greenhouse gases, contributing to ozone depletion and global warming when released into the atmosphere. Non-aerosol alternatives, on the other hand, are often biodegradable and eco-friendly, formulated without propellants, and minimise the risk of indoor air pollution and exposure to harmful chemicals. They also reduce our carbon footprint associated with cleaning and hygiene routines, creating healthier spaces for ourselves and future generations.

Plant and care for trees to filter pollutants and absorb carbon dioxide

Trees are often referred to as the "lungs" of an ecosystem because they absorb carbon dioxide and emit oxygen through photosynthesis. They also act as the ecosystem's "liver", filtering atmospheric pollutants like sulphur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, and ozone through their leaves.

Trees are particularly effective at removing particulate matter (PM) from the air, which includes tiny particles of organic chemicals, acids, metals, and dust emitted from fossil-fuel-burning vehicles, factories, and construction sites. The largest of these particles are known as PM10s, measuring up to 10 micrometers across, while PM2.5s are even smaller at 2.5 micrometres across.

To maximize the air-cleaning benefits of trees, it's important to plant and care for them properly. Here are some guidelines:

• Select the right tree species: Not all trees are equally effective at filtering air pollutants. When planning to plant trees, consider factors such as the urban context, the species' ability to survive in that environment, and any potential negative impacts on air quality, such as the production of allergens or volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Tools like the iTree species software provided by the US Forest Service can help identify the most suitable species for a specific location.
• Plant trees strategically: Consider the placement of trees to maximize their impact on air quality. For example, planting trees in urban areas or around industrial sites can help absorb pollutants from vehicles and factories.
• Maintain proper tree care: Ensure that the trees receive adequate water, nutrients, and sunlight. Prune the trees regularly to remove dead or diseased branches and promote healthy growth.
• Protect the trees from damage: Guard against potential threats such as pests, diseases, and extreme weather conditions. Take preventive measures, such as using pest control methods or installing protective barriers, to ensure the trees' long-term health and survival.
• Encourage community involvement: Engage the community in tree-planting and care initiatives. Educate them about the importance of trees in improving air quality and encourage them to take an active role in their maintenance. This can foster a sense of collective responsibility and ensure the long-term care of the trees.

By following these guidelines and caring for our trees, we can enhance their ability to filter pollutants and absorb carbon dioxide, contributing to cleaner air and a healthier environment for all.

Frequently asked questions