Strategies To Reduce Air Pollution And Breathe Easier

Air pollution is a pressing issue that affects our health and the environment. It refers to the harmful particles, chemicals, and gases released into the air, which can have detrimental effects when inhaled. To help eliminate air pollution, individuals can make conscious choices in their daily lives, such as reducing car usage, opting for more sustainable modes of transportation like walking, cycling, or public transport, and carpooling. Additionally, maintaining vehicles properly, such as keeping tyres inflated and addressing exhaust issues, can help lower emissions. Beyond transportation, individuals can reduce energy consumption at home, eliminate the use of toxic chemicals, and support local initiatives for cleaner air. These collective efforts can significantly contribute to improving air quality and protecting our planet.

Ways to help eliminate air pollution

Opt for walking, cycling, or public transport instead of driving

Opting for walking, cycling, or taking public transportation instead of driving is a great way to help eliminate air pollution. This is because vehicles are a major source of air pollution, with car exhaust contributing significantly to the problem. By choosing to walk or cycle, you can reduce the number of cars on the road and the amount of harmful pollutants released into the atmosphere.

Walking and cycling are excellent forms of physical activity that can easily be incorporated into your daily routine. For example, if you usually drive to work, consider walking or cycling instead. Not only will you be helping to improve air quality, but you'll also be improving your own health and well-being. If your destination is too far to walk or cycle, consider taking public transportation, such as the bus or train, and walking or cycling the last mile. This way, you can still reduce your carbon footprint and avoid the hassle of driving in traffic.

Public transportation is a more efficient and environmentally friendly way to travel than driving a car. By choosing public transportation, you can help reduce congestion on roads and lower your individual carbon footprint. On average, CO2 emissions per passenger for train and coach are six to eight times lower than for car travel. Additionally, carpooling with colleagues, friends, or neighbours can help reduce traffic congestion and per-person emissions, especially in urban areas.

If you must use a vehicle, there are still ways to reduce your impact on the environment. Consider car-sharing schemes or opt for a more environmentally friendly car, such as an electric, hybrid, or smaller vehicle with lower emissions. Regular servicing and maintenance of your vehicle are also important, as well as keeping your tyres properly inflated to optimise fuel efficiency. Remember to turn off your engine when stationary in traffic, as idling engines create hotspots of pollution and waste fuel.

Small changes in your travel behaviour can make a significant impact in reducing air pollution and achieving emissions reduction targets. By opting for walking, cycling, or public transportation instead of driving, you are not only improving air quality but also contributing to a healthier and more sustainable future for everyone.

Reduce energy consumption at home and work

Energy consumption at home and work accounts for a significant portion of energy usage, and there are many ways to reduce it. Here are some strategies to reduce energy consumption in these areas:

At Home

• Insulation: Insulate your home, especially attics and water heaters, to prevent heat loss and reduce the need for heating.
• Thermostat: Install a smart or programmable thermostat to automatically adjust heating and cooling based on your schedule or when you are away.
• Energy-efficient appliances: Look for the ENERGY STAR label when buying appliances, as these consume less energy than standard models.
• Lighting: Replace traditional incandescent light bulbs with energy-efficient LED alternatives.
• Water heating: Lower your water heater's temperature to 120°F, and use the cold water setting for small amounts of water. Consider a tankless water heater if you don't need simultaneous multiple uses of hot water.
• Advanced power strips: Use advanced power strips to eliminate "vampire loads" by automatically cutting power to electronics when they are not in use.
• Appliances: Reduce the use of "always-on" appliances, and unplug or switch off electronics when not in use.
• Laundry: Wash laundry in cold water and line dry whenever possible.
• Filters: Regularly clean or replace filters in HVAC systems, furnaces, and dryers to improve efficiency and reduce energy costs.
• Dimmers: Use dimmers to reduce the flow of electricity to light bulbs, allowing them to operate with lower power outputs and save energy.

At Work

• Recycling: Start a recycling program to reduce waste and promote sustainability.
• Paper usage: Print and photocopy on both sides of paper to minimize paper waste.
• Electronics: Turn off office equipment, computers, printers, and fax machines when not in use.
• Natural lighting: Harness natural sunlight by opening blinds and turning off unnecessary lights.
• Commute: Encourage carpooling, biking, or telecommuting to reduce vehicle emissions and improve air quality.
• Energy-efficient equipment: When purchasing new equipment, opt for energy-efficient options with the ENERGY STAR label.

By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce energy consumption at home and work, contributing to lower energy bills, improved environmental impact, and reduced air pollution.

Avoid using toxic chemicals

Toxic chemicals are commonly found in household, workshop, and garden products. These chemicals can evaporate into the air and contribute to air pollution. To help eliminate air pollution, it is important to avoid using toxic chemicals and opt for natural substitutes whenever possible. Here are some ways to avoid using toxic chemicals:

Choose Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Products:

When shopping for household products, opt for sustainable and eco-friendly options. Look for products made from recycled materials, such as bamboo or hemp. Avoid single-use plastics and invest in durable, reusable grocery bags. Use washable dishes, utensils, and fabric napkins instead of disposable ones.

Reduce Use of Disinfectant and Antibacterial Products:

Disinfectant and antibacterial products, such as hand soaps, hand sanitizers, and cleaning products, often contain harmful chemicals. Quaternary ammonium compounds (quats) are commonly found in these products and have been linked to skin irritation, lung irritation, asthma, fertility issues, and reproductive harm. Reduce your use of these products and opt for natural alternatives, such as vinegar, baking soda, or essential oils.

Avoid Fragrances and Air Fresheners:

Fragrances and air fresheners can release hundreds of chemicals into the air, including phthalates, which are linked to reproductive and developmental harm. Choose "fragrance-free" products, but be aware that "unscented" does not always mean fragrance-free. Open windows and use natural methods to reduce odors, such as fresh flowers, herbs, or spices.

Be Mindful of Household Chemicals:

Some household chemicals, such as paints, cleaners, and pesticides, can contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and particulate matter (PM). These chemicals can evaporate and penetrate deep into the lungs, triggering asthma attacks or worsening respiratory illnesses. Look for environmentally safe alternatives, follow manufacturer recommendations, and properly seal and store these products to prevent evaporation.

Reduce Exposure to Industrial Toxins:

Certain industries release toxic chemicals into the environment, which can be challenging to avoid. However, you can take steps to reduce your exposure. Avoid burning garbage or using a wood stove, especially during poor air quality days. Support policies and programs that advocate for cleaner air and the reduction of toxic chemical releases. Stay informed about emissions in your area and participate in local energy conservation programs.

Plant trees

Planting trees is a great way to help eliminate air pollution. Trees improve air quality through several means. Firstly, they directly remove pollutants from the air by absorbing gaseous molecules and toxic air pollutants such as ozone, sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), and fine particulate matter. These pollutants are inhaled through tiny pores on tree leaves called stomata and are then broken down and permanently converted within the leaves. Trees also remove particulate matter by "catching" them temporarily on their surfaces until they are dissolved in stormwater runoff or transferred to the soil through rain or precipitation.

Trees also improve air quality by reducing air temperature, which helps to alter pollution concentrations. Lower temperatures reduce energy consumption in buildings, thereby reducing air pollutant emissions from power sources. Urban forests, in particular, can remove multiple tons of air pollution each year, including ozone and other criteria air pollutants. According to the UERLA i-Tree analysis, the urban forest tree canopy in 11 National Capital Area parks removes over 1.1 million metric tons of air pollution annually.

In addition to their role in air pollution removal, trees also play a critical role in providing clean oxygen for us to breathe. Through the process of photosynthesis, trees absorb carbon dioxide and water from the air and, using solar energy, convert them into chemical compounds that they can consume as food. 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.

Planting and caring for trees is a simple yet effective way to contribute to improved air quality and combat the negative impacts of air pollution on human health and the environment.

Buy an electric car

Electric vehicles (EVs) have zero tailpipe emissions, meaning they emit no pollutants from their exhausts. This is in contrast to traditional cars, which emit carbon pollution and other harmful gases such as nitrogen oxides and carbon dioxide.

Research has shown that, over the lifetime of a vehicle, electric cars are responsible for lower levels of greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) than an average new gasoline car. This is because, despite the additional energy required to manufacture an EV battery, electric cars produce fewer emissions during operation.

In 2020, it was found that EV charging consumed less electricity than water heating and air conditioning in a typical US household. This suggests that, even with the increased demand for electricity that will come with more people using EVs, the total emissions will still be lower than those produced by traditional cars.

When buying a new car, look for the most efficient, lowest-polluting vehicle. Electric cars are a great option for this, and there are many other benefits to making the switch. For example, electric cars are often cheaper to run than traditional cars, as electricity is a cheaper fuel than petrol or diesel.

However, it is worth noting that the electricity used to charge EVs may create carbon pollution, depending on how the electricity is generated. For example, using coal or natural gas to generate electricity will emit carbon pollution, whereas renewable resources like wind or solar will not.

Frequently asked questions