Simple Actions, Clean Air: Preventing Air Pollution

Air pollution is a pressing issue that affects the health of people worldwide, especially in low- and middle-income countries. While some sources of outdoor air pollution are beyond individual control, there are actions that everyone can take to reduce their contribution to air pollution and improve air quality. These include simple steps in daily life, such as choosing eco-friendly transportation options, reducing energy consumption, and using environmentally safe products.

Actions to prevent air pollution

Opt for eco-friendly transport: walk, bike, carpool, or use public transportation

Eco-friendly transport options such as walking, biking, carpooling, and public transportation can significantly contribute to reducing air pollution. Here are some ways they help:

Walking

Walking is an excellent way to reduce air pollution and improve your health. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), walking for 30 minutes or cycling for 20 minutes on most days can reduce mortality risk by at least 10%. Walking is a form of active transport that helps tackle physical inactivity, which causes one million deaths per year in the European Region. Additionally, walking reduces the emissions of air pollutants and greenhouse gases, contributing to climate change mitigation.

Biking

Biking, like walking, is an active transport mode that offers health benefits and helps reduce air pollution. According to WHO, cancer-related mortality is 30% lower among bike commuters. Opting for biking instead of driving can considerably decrease carbon emissions from vehicles. Policies that promote safe biking infrastructure and encourage people to choose biking as a means of transportation can positively shape health, the environment, and climate change mitigation.

Carpooling

Carpooling is a powerful way to reduce pollution by cutting down on the number of cars on the road. When multiple people share a ride, it leads to fewer cars on the road, reduced traffic congestion, and lower per-person emissions. Carpooling can also save money on gas costs and provide an opportunity to build community through shared rides. With many cars having four or five seats, carpooling can efficiently utilize available space and reduce the environmental impact of multiple solo drivers.

Public Transportation

Public transportation options such as buses or trains are efficient and eco-friendly alternatives to private cars. They help reduce air pollution by lowering the number of vehicles on the road and the associated emissions. Additionally, public transportation can contribute to a healthier and more environmentally friendly urban environment, especially when integrated with smart technology.

Reduce energy consumption: use less electricity and opt for energy-efficient appliances

Energy conservation is a key component of reducing air pollution. Power plants burn fossil fuels to generate electricity, so reducing electricity usage will lower the amount of fossil fuel consumed and decrease pollutant emissions.

There are many ways to reduce energy consumption at home. One way is to use less electricity by turning off electrical items when they are not in use. This includes turning off lights, computers, printers, and fax machines when you leave the office or for the night. You can also unplug electronics such as chargers, televisions, and computers, or use power strips with on/off switches to disconnect multiple devices at once. This is because many electronics continue to draw power even when they are turned off or in standby mode, a phenomenon known as standby power or vampire power.

Another way to reduce electricity usage is to harness natural light during the day by opening the blinds, reducing the need for artificial lighting. When artificial lighting is required, opt for energy-efficient light bulbs such as LEDs or CFLs, which use less energy and last longer.

Reducing energy consumption can also be achieved by using energy-efficient appliances. When purchasing new appliances, look for those with the Energy Star label, as they meet strict energy efficiency criteria. Examples of energy-efficient appliances include refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines, and air conditioners. These appliances can significantly reduce energy usage and save money in the long run.

In addition to using energy-efficient appliances, it is important to only buy the appliances you truly need. For example, instead of buying a toaster that can brown four slices at once, consider purchasing a smaller toaster if you live alone. This not only reduces energy consumption but also saves counter space.

Avoid gas-powered equipment: swap for electric or hand-powered alternatives

Avoiding Gas-Powered Equipment: Opting for Electric or Hand-Powered Alternatives

Gas-powered equipment, such as lawnmowers, leaf blowers, and snow blowers, often lack pollution control devices. As a result, an hour of using a gas-powered lawnmower can generate nearly the same amount of pollution as driving a car for 100 miles. To reduce air pollution, it is essential to swap these gas-powered tools for electric or hand-powered alternatives.

When choosing a replacement, consider electric equipment powered by lithium-ion batteries, which offer power and performance comparable to commercial-grade gasoline models. Electric options are typically much lighter, even with the weight of the battery, making them more comfortable to work with due to reduced vibration. They are also easy to start and require less maintenance, as there is no engine to worry about. Additionally, battery-powered models tend to be more compact, making storage more convenient.

For those seeking an even more eco-friendly solution, hand-powered tools are an excellent option. While they may require more physical effort to operate, hand-powered equipment produces zero emissions and can be a cost-effective choice, especially for those with smaller yards or gardens.

In addition to lawn care equipment, there are other opportunities to switch from gas-powered to electric alternatives. For example, when considering a new boiler, an electric boiler is worth exploring. Electric boilers are similar in size to gas boilers and are slightly cheaper to install. They do not require annual safety checks or servicing, and they work with your existing heating system and controls.

Similarly, when in the market for a new car, look for the most efficient, lowest-polluting vehicle, or even consider a zero-emission electric car. Electric vehicles (EVs) have stellar performance, are smooth and quiet to drive, and allow for convenient "refueling" at home. However, it is important to note that EVs tend to be expensive upfront, and despite their advantages, they may not be the most economical choice for everyone.

By making these conscious decisions to avoid gas-powered equipment and opting for electric or hand-powered alternatives, individuals can play a significant role in reducing air pollution and creating a cleaner, healthier environment for all.

Plant and care for trees: they filter pollutants and produce oxygen

Planting and taking care of trees is a great way to help prevent air pollution. Trees are an effective public health resource that improves the health of individuals and communities. They filter the air by absorbing harmful pollutants and producing oxygen.

Trees absorb gaseous pollutants such as ozone, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide through tiny openings in their leaves called stomata. These pollutants are then broken down within the tree. Trees also remove particulate matter from the air by catching it on their leaves. When it rains, these particulates are washed off into the soil or dissolved into stormwater.

Trees produce oxygen through photosynthesis, a process in which trees convert carbon dioxide and water into food using solar energy. Oxygen is released as a byproduct of this process. It is estimated that one large tree can provide a day's supply of oxygen for up to four people.

In addition to improving air quality, trees offer other benefits such as providing shade and helping to cool our homes. They also play a role in reducing energy consumption in buildings, particularly for temperature control, which further reduces the consumption of energy from polluting sources.

When choosing trees to plant, consider species that grow large and have bushy canopies, such as elms, oaks, bald cypress, and maples. These trees will be more effective at catching particulate matter on their leaves. It is also important to plant trees in areas where emissions are released and where a lot of people live, as this will have the greatest impact on air quality.

Choose efficient vehicles: look for low-emission, electric, or high-mileage cars

Choosing efficient vehicles is a great way to help reduce air pollution. When looking for a low-emission, electric, or high-mileage car, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, it is essential to understand your needs, budget, and lifestyle. Electric vehicles (EVs) have gained popularity, and there are now many models to choose from. When considering an EV, range and charging are crucial factors. You should ensure you have a reliable charging strategy, whether at home, work, or through accessible public charging stations. While DC fast-charging stations are available, they can be costly and may reduce the lifespan of your EV's battery. Therefore, it is advisable to explore the various charging options and choose the most suitable and cost-effective method for your needs.

If you are specifically interested in low-emission vehicles, you can refer to the Green Vehicle Guide, which provides information on greener transportation options. Additionally, you can look for vehicles with SmartWay designations, such as the Lexus RX 400h, Mazda Tribute Hybrid, Mercury Mariner Hybrid, and Toyota Highlander Hybrid. These vehicles have earned this designation by meeting stringent low-emission standards. Some hybrid-electric vehicles, such as the Honda Civic Hybrid and the Nissan Altima, fall under the AT PZEV classification, indicating their clean-burning and efficient operation.

When considering a high-mileage car, it is important to be mindful of potential maintenance and repair costs. Cars with over 100,000 miles are typically out of warranty and may require significant repairs. To minimise expenses, opt for models known for their reliability and low maintenance costs. It is also advisable to choose vehicles with fewer high-tech features, as they tend to be less costly to repair. Additionally, be cautious when considering used luxury cars, as they often come with higher parts and labour costs. Before purchasing a high-mileage car, it is recommended to obtain a vehicle history report to understand its accident history and rule out any odometer tampering.

In addition to choosing efficient vehicles, there are other actions you can take to prevent air pollution. This includes carpooling, which helps reduce traffic congestion and per-person emissions, especially in urban areas. If possible, consider eco-friendly modes of transportation for short distances, such as walking or biking, as these options are better for the environment and your health.

Frequently asked questions