Pollution's Everyday Culprits: Unseen Sources Of Environmental Harm

Human activities are a major source of air pollution and the resultant global warming. From car exhausts to wildfires, e-cigarette smoke, and ozone, pollution is a mix of natural and man-made substances found both indoors and outdoors. Some everyday activities that contribute to air pollution include the use of aerosol deodorants, bottled water, and household appliances like air conditioners and refrigerators. In addition, human habits such as leaving the tap running, throwing away plastic without recycling, and burning crackers also contribute to environmental pollution. Furthermore, industrial effluents, heavy industries, and vehicles act as primary sources of air pollutants, releasing fine particulate matter, volatile organic compounds, and nitrogen and carbon compounds. The effects of air pollution are severe, with 6.7 million premature deaths annually linked to the combined impacts of ambient and household air pollution.

Household air pollution

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued guidelines for indoor air quality, recommending clean fuels and technologies such as solar, electricity, biogas, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), natural gas, alcohol fuels, and certain biomass stoves that meet emission targets. However, access to these cleaner alternatives is limited, especially in low- and middle-income countries, where 49% of the rural population relies on polluting fuels compared to only 14% in urban areas.

The health risks associated with household air pollution are extensive. Exposure to pollutants can cause short-term issues such as burning eyes, coughing, and nose and throat irritation. More severe consequences include pneumonia in children, as well as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung cancer, stroke, and cardiovascular disease in adults. According to WHO data from 2022, over 3 million people die prematurely each year from diseases caused by household air pollution, with ischaemic heart disease, lower respiratory infections, stroke, COPD, and lung cancer being the leading causes.

Additionally, the use of aerosol deodorants, air fresheners, cleaners, and body sprays can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that contribute to indoor air pollution and have long-term health effects. Household garbage dumped in landfills also generates methane, a highly flammable gas that can form explosive compounds when reacting with air.

Reducing household air pollution is crucial for protecting health and the environment. This can be achieved by adopting clean fuels and technologies, improving access to alternative energy sources, and raising awareness about the health risks associated with indoor air pollution.

Aerosol deodorants

The use of aerosol deodorants was once a more severe problem for the ozone layer. In the early 1980s, it was discovered that specific types of aerosols emitted chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), which were responsible for the thinning of the ozone layer. These CFCs, used as propellant gases, released chlorine and bromine atoms that reacted with and destroyed ozone molecules. However, thanks to international efforts, particularly the Montreal Protocol in 1987, CFCs have been gradually phased out, making today's aerosol deodorants safer for the ozone layer.

Apart from the chemical ingredients, the packaging of aerosol deodorants can also contribute to environmental pollution. Many deodorants are packaged in plastic, tin, or other non-recyclable or non-biodegradable materials. When these materials are not properly disposed of or recycled, they contribute to the excessive trash that pollutes the environment.

To reduce the environmental impact of deodorants, individuals can opt for environmentally friendly alternatives with recyclable packaging and eco-friendly ingredients. Additionally, simple everyday habits such as turning off the tap while brushing teeth or washing hands, reducing the use of bottled water, and properly disposing of chewing gum can collectively contribute to a greener lifestyle and help protect the planet.

Bottled water

The process of manufacturing plastic water bottles is harmful to the environment. It contributes to global warming by releasing carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. For instance, the water bottling process releases 2.5 million tons of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere annually. Additionally, the production of disposable water bottles requires a significant amount of fossil fuels. More than 17 million barrels of oil are needed to meet America's annual demand for bottled water.

The plastic particles in bottled water are a growing concern. A recent study found at least 240,000 plastic particles in a liter of bottled water, with most being nanoplastics. These tiny particles, smaller than a sesame seed, can enter the body's cells and tissues. While the health effects of ingesting these particles are still unknown, they have been found in human blood, lungs, gut, feces, and reproductive tissues. Furthermore, the chemicals leached from the plastic bottles, such as heavy metals and hormone disruptors, pose additional risks to human health.

To reduce the impact of bottled water pollution, individuals can switch to bottleless water systems and use reusable water bottles made from plastic-free materials like ceramic, glass, or stainless steel. These simple changes can help protect the environment, marine life, and human health from the harmful effects of plastic water bottle pollution.

Vehicle emissions

To reduce vehicle emissions, individuals can opt for cleaner and more fuel-efficient vehicles, such as electric or hybrid cars. Maintaining proper tire inflation and adhering to speed limits can also help improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. For longer distances, public transportation, carpooling, or ride-sharing options are recommended to decrease the number of vehicles on the road.

Furthermore, individuals can contribute to reducing vehicle emissions by making conscious choices to drive less and opt for more sustainable modes of transportation, such as walking or biking for shorter distances. This not only reduces air pollution but also offers health benefits and helps save money on fuel costs.

While newer vehicles tend to emit less pollution due to improved fuel economy standards, the growing popularity of gas-guzzling SUVs and pickup trucks offsets some of the progress made in emission reductions. It is important to consider the environmental impact of vehicle choices and opt for more sustainable alternatives whenever possible.

By taking these steps to reduce vehicle emissions, we can improve air quality, protect public health, and contribute to mitigating the impacts of global warming and climate change.

Industrial effluents

The production of pharmaceutical and chemical substances often results in wastewater contaminated with active pharmaceutical ingredients, such as sulphamide, penicillin, and amoxicillin. This wastewater is particularly challenging to treat because the substances are non-biodegradable and can promote antibiotic-resistant microbes.

The metal processing industry is another significant contributor to industrial effluents, with lubricants and mineral oils contaminating wastewater and causing high COD values. Electroplating processes further introduce heavy metals like zinc, nickel, copper, or cadmium into the water.

To address the issue of industrial effluents, various treatment methods are employed. Primary treatment removes suspended solids, while secondary biological treatment targets dissolved organic compounds and colloidal particles. In the paper industry, Moving Bed Bioreactors (MBRs) are used to reduce harmful substances in wastewater, although they require large tanks and are influenced by the settleability of sludge.

While industrial wastewater recycling systems have been implemented in some cases, with water being properly cleaned, reused, or disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner, inconsistent enforcement of environmental legislation remains an issue in certain regions. As a result, untreated industrial wastewater continues to be discharged into public waters, contributing to water pollution and its adverse effects on the environment.

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