Breathing Easy: A World Without Air Pollution

Air pollution has a detrimental impact on human health and the planet. It is caused by vehicle exhaust, the burning of garbage, and the use of gasoline-powered equipment, among other things. To combat this, individuals can take steps such as driving less, using public transportation, conserving energy, and using environmentally friendly products. In addition, governments have implemented policies to reduce air pollution, such as the Clean Air Act in the US, which has successfully lowered levels of common pollutants and improved air quality. The effects of these combined efforts have been significant, with reduced environmental damage, improved crop and timber yields, and better health outcomes for people worldwide, especially the most marginalized communities.

Marginalised communities will be healthier

Marginalised communities, who are currently breathing the most polluted air, will experience significant health improvements if air pollution is fixed. Air pollution has been shown to have a detrimental impact on human health, causing issues such as irritated eyes and throat, damaged lungs, and worsened bronchitis. The tiniest airborne particles in soot can be especially harmful as they can penetrate the lungs and bloodstream, increasing the risk of heart attacks and even premature death.

Low-income neighbourhoods and communities of colour are often located near highways and polluting facilities, exposing them to higher levels of air pollution. This inequity in exposure contributes to health disparities, with marginalised people facing a greater risk of adverse health effects.

By addressing air pollution, we can improve health equity and reduce health risks for these vulnerable communities. This has been recognised by some low- and middle-income countries, such as Rwanda and India, which have taken steps towards improving air quality. Rwanda has focused on off-grid solar-powered systems to provide electricity to rural areas, while India has announced plans to prioritise renewable energy sources over coal-burning power plants.

The benefits of improving air quality can be significant. For example, the Clean Air Act in the United States has led to a 78% drop in emissions of common pollutants between 1970 and 2020, resulting in dramatic improvements in the air quality. This has prevented early deaths and reduced the risk of serious health issues for Americans. Similar improvements can be achieved for marginalised communities worldwide if we implement policies and technologies that reduce air pollution.

Overall, fixing air pollution is crucial to ensuring the health and well-being of marginalised communities. By prioritising clean air and sustainable practices, we can create a healthier and more equitable future for those who are currently bearing the brunt of polluted air.

Fewer early deaths

Air pollution is a pressing global issue, with 99% of the world's population breathing air that exceeds the recommended pollution limits set by the World Health Organization (WHO). Outdoor and indoor air pollution is a major public health concern, causing respiratory and other diseases, and contributing to high morbidity and mortality rates. The sources of air pollution are varied and include residential energy use, vehicles, power generation, industrial facilities, and agriculture.

The effects of air pollution on human health are significant. Breathing polluted air can irritate the lungs, causing inflammation not just in the lungs but also in other parts of the body. Fine particles (2.5 micrometres in diameter or less) from factories, power plants, and car exhaust, as well as ozone, the main ingredient of urban smog, are particularly harmful when inhaled. Air pollution has been linked to asthma, heart attacks, strokes, and various types of cancer. Long-term exposure to air pollution has been associated with premature death, and even short-term exposure can be dangerous.

The impact of air pollution on mortality rates is evident. In 2021, approximately 709,000 deaths in children under five were linked to air pollution exposure, accounting for 15% of all global deaths in this age group. Additionally, an estimated 476,000 infants died in their first month of life due to health complications associated with air pollution. Fine particulate matter pollution contributed to an estimated 4.14 million deaths worldwide in 2019. Overall, air pollution is the second leading risk factor for early death, second only to high blood pressure. On average, air pollution reduces the lifespan of an individual by one year and eight months.

The good news is that addressing air pollution can have significant health benefits. The Clean Air Act in the United States, for example, has successfully reduced pollution levels while the economy has grown. Between 1970 and 2020, emissions of six common pollutants (PM2.5 and PM10, SO2, NOx, VOCs, CO, and Pb) dropped by 78%. As a result, the risk of premature death and other serious health issues has been lowered for Americans. Similarly, a 2011 EPA study found that the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 were achieving substantial health benefits, preventing an estimated 205,000 early deaths in 1990 alone.

By implementing policies and interventions that promote sustainable land use, cleaner energy and transport, energy-efficient housing, improved waste management, and better municipal waste management, we can effectively reduce ambient air pollution and improve public health outcomes. This includes encouraging the use of electric vehicles, promoting energy conservation, and transitioning to cleaner household energy sources. Reducing air pollution will lead to fewer early deaths, protecting the health and well-being of people worldwide.

Improved crop and timber yields

Improving air quality has a positive impact on crop and timber yields. A 2011 EPA study found that reducing air pollution improved crop and timber yields, with benefits worth an estimated $5.5 billion to those industries in 2010.

Nitrogen oxides (NOx) are among the most widely emitted pollutants globally, and they can directly damage crop cells. These gases are found in car exhaust and industrial emissions, and they can also indirectly affect crops by contributing to the formation of ozone, an airborne toxin that reduces crop yields. A Stanford University-led study used satellite images to reveal how nitrogen oxides affect crop productivity, and found that areas with high amounts of nitrogen oxide pollution experience significant declines in crop yields.

By reducing NOx emissions, crop yields can be improved. Researchers estimate that halving NOx emissions in each region would improve yields by approximately 25% for winter crops and 15% for summer crops in China, nearly 10% for both winter and summer crops in Western Europe, and about 8% for summer crops and 6% for winter crops in India.

Additionally, reducing ozone, particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide between 1999 and 2019 contributed to about a 20% increase in U.S. corn and soybean yields, worth about $5 billion per year. Similarly, reducing ground-level ozone pollution can have positive effects on crop yields, as it is estimated that ozone causes between 5% and 12% of yield losses in staple crops globally.

Less environmental damage

Air pollution has a detrimental impact on the environment, and fixing it can have a range of positive effects on the planet.

One of the most significant ways to reduce environmental damage is to lower the levels of harmful pollutants in the air. These include particles, ozone, lead, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide, as well as toxic pollutants. By reducing these pollutants, we can improve air quality and protect the environment. For instance, the Clean Air Act in the United States has successfully cut down on these pollutants while also improving economic growth.

Additionally, addressing air pollution can improve crop and timber yields, as cleaner air promotes better plant growth. This has economic benefits, as seen in the example of the US, where the benefits to these industries were valued at $5.5 billion in 2010.

Furthermore, reducing air pollution can positively impact the planet by mitigating climate change. For example, India has announced plans to pause new coal-burning power plant proposals and increase renewable energy sources. This shift towards renewable energy sources can help reduce the environmental damage caused by fossil fuels, which contribute to global warming and climate change.

Another way to reduce environmental damage is to limit the number of car trips and opt for cleaner commute options, such as carpooling, public transportation, biking, or walking. Vehicle exhaust is a major source of air pollution, and by reducing our reliance on cars, we can decrease the amount of harmful emissions released into the atmosphere.

Lastly, individuals can contribute to reducing environmental damage by conserving energy and electricity. This can be achieved by using energy-efficient appliances, participating in energy conservation programs, and properly maintaining and tuning vehicles to ensure they are running efficiently.

Better energy efficiency

Improving energy efficiency is a crucial aspect of tackling air pollution and its detrimental effects on human health and the environment. Energy production is a significant contributor to air pollution, and by reducing pollution from this sector, we can significantly improve air quality. Here are some ways in which better energy efficiency can be achieved:

Renewable Energy Sources: Embracing renewable and clean energy sources is essential for improving energy efficiency and reducing air pollution. Solar, wind, and hydroelectric power are examples of renewable energy sources that can be utilized to decrease reliance on fossil fuels. Countries like Rwanda and India are making significant strides in this direction. Rwanda has focused on off-grid solar-powered systems, providing electricity to nearly 50% of the country as of 2021. India has also announced plans to prioritize renewable energy sources over new coal-burning power plants.

Energy Conservation: Conserving energy in our daily lives can significantly contribute to better energy efficiency. This includes simple actions such as using energy-efficient appliances with the ENERGY STAR label, turning off electrical devices when not in use, and participating in local energy conservation programs. Additionally, setting air conditioners at higher temperatures and using energy-efficient heating systems can make a notable difference.

Clean Transportation: The transportation sector is a major contributor to air pollution, particularly vehicle exhaust. To improve energy efficiency in transportation, individuals can opt for electric vehicles, carpooling, public transportation, biking, or walking whenever possible. Keeping vehicles well-maintained and ensuring proper tire inflation can also reduce fuel consumption and lower emissions.

Energy-Efficient Buildings: Improving the energy efficiency of buildings through better insulation, efficient lighting, and optimized heating and cooling systems can significantly reduce energy consumption and associated emissions. Local businesses, city offices, and school districts can be guided toward programs that help them adopt more sustainable practices and reduce their carbon footprint.

Reducing Energy Intensity of Industries: Industries can play a pivotal role in improving energy efficiency by adopting more efficient technologies and processes. This includes utilizing renewable energy sources, improving energy management systems, and implementing energy-saving measures. Governments can also provide incentives and regulations to encourage industries to reduce their energy consumption and associated emissions.

By implementing these measures and focusing on better energy efficiency, we can significantly reduce air pollution and its detrimental effects on human health and the environment. It is important to note that the benefits of improved energy efficiency extend beyond just air quality improvements, including economic gains, improved health outcomes, and enhanced environmental resilience.

Frequently asked questions