Air Pollution In Canada: Great Lakes' Crisis

Air pollution around the Great Lakes is a serious issue, with a number of sources contributing to the problem. These include hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) such as benzene, perchloroethylene, and methylene chloride, which are related to heavy industry, dense urban development, and roadways. Acid rain, caused by the emission of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, is also a concern. Ground-level ozone pollution is prevalent in and near urban areas and the lakeshore during the summer months, while particulate matter (PM) pollution occurs year-round. In addition, new pollutants such as pharmaceuticals and plastic waste are increasingly troubling, with chemicals like fire retardants and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE) present in the air, water, and sediment around the Great Lakes. Human activities, such as the burning of coal, oil, and wood, are responsible for much of the mercury released into the environment. These sources of pollution pose risks to both human health and the environment.

Air toxics, or hazardous air pollutants (HAPs)

Examples of toxic air pollutants include benzene (gasoline), perchloroethylene (used in some dry cleaning facilities), and methylene chloride (a solvent and paint stripper used by a number of industries). Other air toxics listed by the EPA include dioxin, asbestos, toluene, and metals such as cadmium, mercury, chromium, and lead compounds.

The burning of coal, oil, and wood as fuel can cause mercury to become airborne, as can burning wastes that contain mercury. Acid deposition, or acid rain, occurs when sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides (both combustion by-products from energy generation, transportation, and industry) are emitted into the atmosphere and transported by wind and air currents.

Ground-level ozone pollution occurs in and near urban areas and the lakeshore during the summer months. Ozone is a secondary pollutant that is formed in the presence of sunlight from reactions of nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds (fuels, industrial sources, solvents, and trees/plants). The unique weather of the Lake Michigan shoreline exacerbates ozone concentrations in the region.

Particulate matter (PM) pollution happens during all seasons and throughout the region. PM is directly emitted from combustion sources and as dust, and is formed through secondary reactions of by-products from combustion, industry, agriculture, and natural sources.

Acid rain

Air pollution around the Great Lakes is caused by a variety of factors, including air toxics, or hazardous air pollutants (HAPs), which are local, near-source pollutants related to heavy industry, dense urban development, and roadways. These pollutants can have serious health effects, including cancer and developmental issues. One of the main contributors to air pollution in the region is acid rain, which is caused by the emission of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides into the atmosphere. These emissions are by-products of energy generation, transportation, and industry.

The acidic nature of the rain results from the presence of sulfuric and nitric acids, which are formed through the oxidation of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, respectively. When these acidic compounds mix with atmospheric moisture, they create acid rain. This phenomenon not only affects the lakes directly but also impacts the surrounding terrestrial ecosystems. Acid rain can have far-reaching consequences for both aquatic and terrestrial life, as well as infrastructure and human health.

The Great Lakes region is particularly vulnerable to the effects of acid rain due to its unique geographical characteristics and the presence of large water bodies. When acid rain falls onto the lakes, it leads to a decrease in the water's pH level, resulting in acidification. This process can have detrimental effects on aquatic life, including fish and other organisms, as it alters the chemical balance of their habitat. Additionally, acid rain can contribute to the corrosion of infrastructure, such as bridges and buildings, in the surrounding areas.

To mitigate the impacts of acid rain, efforts have been made to reduce the emission of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides. This includes implementing regulations and transitioning to cleaner energy sources. By addressing the root causes of acid rain, it is possible to protect the delicate ecosystems of the Great Lakes and safeguard the health and well-being of the surrounding communities.

Ground-level ozone pollution

Ozone pollution is particularly harmful to human health. It can cause serious respiratory problems, especially for those with pre-existing conditions such as asthma. The elderly and children are also particularly vulnerable to the effects of ground-level ozone pollution.

In addition to the direct health impacts, ground-level ozone pollution can also contribute to water pollution. As ozone concentrations increase in the atmosphere, they can also lead to higher levels of ozone in the water. This can have detrimental effects on aquatic life and further impact the health of humans and wildlife that depend on the water for survival.

Furthermore, ground-level ozone pollution is closely linked to other types of air pollution, such as particulate matter (PM) pollution. PM pollution occurs year-round and throughout the region. It is directly emitted from combustion sources and as dust, and is also formed through secondary reactions of by-products from combustion, industry, agriculture, and natural sources.

The sources of ground-level ozone pollution are diverse and include both natural and human-made factors. Natural sources include trees and plants, while human-made sources include industrial activities, the burning of fossil fuels, and the use of solvents. Additionally, human activities such as dense urban development and transportation also contribute to the problem.

Addressing ground-level ozone pollution requires a multi-faceted approach that targets both natural and human-made sources. Strategies may include implementing stricter emissions standards for industries, promoting the use of cleaner energy sources, and encouraging the adoption of more sustainable practices in urban development and transportation.

Particulate matter (PM) pollution

PM pollution is particularly harmful because the particles are small enough to be inhaled and can cause serious health issues. They can also contribute to water pollution, as they are slowly metabolised or excreted and can bioaccumulate in the food web. This endangers the environment and the health of humans and wildlife.

Sources of PM pollution around the Great Lakes include heavy industry, dense urban development, and roadways. The burning of coal, oil, and wood as fuel can release mercury into the air, which is a toxic substance. Other toxic air pollutants include benzene (found in gasoline), perchloroethylene (used in some dry cleaning facilities), and methylene chloride (a solvent and paint stripper used by several industries).

Additionally, new pollutants such as pharmaceuticals and plastic waste are also present in the air around the Great Lakes. These pollutants can have detrimental effects on the environment and the health of nearby communities.

Pharmaceuticals and plastic waste

Ground-level ozone pollution occurs in and near urban areas and the lakeshore during the summer months. Ozone is a secondary pollutant that is formed in the presence of sunlight from reactions of nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds. The unique weather of the Lake Michigan shoreline exacerbates ozone concentrations in the region.

Particulate matter (PM) pollution happens during all seasons and throughout the region. PM is directly emitted from combustion sources and as dust, and is formed through secondary reactions of by-products from combustion, industry, agriculture, and natural sources.

Human activities are responsible for much of the mercury that is released into the environment. The burning of coal, oil, and wood as fuel can cause mercury to become airborne, as can burning wastes that contain mercury.

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