Strategies To Avoid: Reducing Ground-Level Pollutants

Ground-level ozone is a harmful air pollutant and the main ingredient in smog. It is formed by chemical reactions between oxides of nitrogen (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by cars, power plants, industrial boilers, refineries, and other sources. While stratospheric ozone is beneficial as it shields us from ultraviolet radiation, ground-level ozone can trigger health issues, especially in vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and people with asthma. To reduce ground-level pollutants, strategies such as transitioning to electric vehicles, improving fuel efficiency, and implementing stricter emission limits for power plants and industrial sources are commonly employed. However, one approach that is not typically utilized as a strategy for reducing ground-level pollutants is the introduction of a carbon tax system.

Phase out fossil fuels

Phasing out fossil fuels is a crucial step in reducing ground-level pollutants and mitigating the impacts of climate change. Fossil fuels, including coal, oil, and natural gas, are major contributors to global energy-related emissions, with coal being the largest source, followed by oil and natural gas. The combustion of fossil fuels releases pollutants such as particulate matter, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, and lead, which have detrimental effects on human health and the environment.

To address this issue, a global phase-out of fossil fuels is necessary. This involves a rapid and steep decline in the production and use of fossil fuels, with the ultimate goal of reaching zero emissions. While a complete phase-out may face some technical challenges, significant progress can be made by focusing on deep and direct cuts in fossil fuel production and consumption. This transition is already underway, with cleaner and safer energy solutions becoming increasingly cost-competitive and widely available.

To accelerate the phase-out of fossil fuels, several strategies can be implemented:

• Commit to net-zero emissions: Companies and financial institutions should set credible net-zero commitments and publish Climate Transition Action Plans (CTAPs). These plans should include interim reduction targets for fossil fuel use and scaling up clean energy alternatives.
• End new fossil fuel projects: There should be no new exploration or development of oil and gas fields. Additionally, new financial flows towards the coal value chain and fossil fuel exploration should be terminated.
• Reduce existing production and emissions: Companies should commit to specific percentage declines in existing production volumes, fossil fuel products for energy use, and unabated operational emissions by target dates, with the goal of reaching zero emissions by 2050.
• Increase clean energy solutions: The adoption of renewable energy sources, such as electric vehicles, renewable natural gas, and hydrogen, should be prioritized. Investments in clean energy infrastructure and market reforms are crucial to facilitating this transition.
• Improve energy efficiency: Enhancing energy efficiency can help reduce overall energy consumption and lower the carbon footprint of the transportation and building sectors.
• Address social and economic inequities: The transition away from fossil fuels must be just and equitable, prioritizing the needs of those overburdened by fossil fuel pollution and climate change, including fossil fuel-dependent workers and communities.
• Provide financial support and capacity-building: Wealthier nations, as historic emitters, have a responsibility to lead the way and support countries in the Global South in diversifying their economies and developing net-zero pathways.
• Hold the fossil fuel industry accountable: The fossil fuel industry has delayed and blocked climate action for decades. Policymakers must dismantle their disproportionate political influence and enact regulations to reduce fossil fuel production and use.

By implementing these strategies and working together globally, it is possible to achieve a fast and fair phase-out of fossil fuels, build a healthier and more sustainable future, and limit the worst impacts of climate change.

Reduce emissions from power plants

Reducing emissions from power plants is a crucial step in lowering ground-level pollutants and improving air quality. Here are some detailed strategies and actions that can be implemented to achieve this goal:

Phase Out Fossil Fuels

One effective strategy is to transition away from fossil fuels, particularly coal, which is a significant contributor to power plant emissions. This involves shifting towards cleaner energy sources such as natural gas and renewable alternatives. In Pennsylvania, for example, a reduction in coal-fired generation and an increase in electricity generated from natural gas and renewables resulted in a 10% decrease in CO2 emissions from the power sector between 2005 and 2011.

Implement Regulations and Standards

Governments and organizations like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) play a crucial role in establishing regulations and standards to reduce power plant emissions. The EPA's "Good Neighbor" plan, for instance, aims to cut smog pollution from power stations by enforcing the use of pollution control equipment and setting emission limits. Additionally, the EPA has released rules specifically targeting carbon emissions and other pollutants from coal and natural gas-fired power plants.

Improve Energy Efficiency

Enhancing energy efficiency can significantly reduce emissions. This can be achieved through the use of combined heat and power (CHP) systems at commercial and industrial sites, as well as by increasing the efficiency of existing coal and natural gas plants through equipment upgrades and operational improvements. Pennsylvania is currently utilizing less than one-third of its CHP potential and could substantially reduce CO2 emissions by increasing its use.

Adopt Renewable Energy Targets

Setting and meeting renewable energy targets is essential. States like Pennsylvania, with its alternative energy standard requiring 8% of electricity to come from renewables by 2021, can significantly reduce their carbon footprint. Meeting such targets with new, in-state renewable generation can lead to substantial emissions reductions.

Utilize Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS)

CCS technology involves capturing carbon dioxide at its source and storing it permanently underground. While implementing CCS has faced economic challenges, it remains a potential solution for reducing emissions from coal-fired power plants. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has invested significantly in CCS technology demonstrations, although many projects have faced setbacks due to the decreasing economic viability of coal power.

Explore Sustainable Agriculture

The agriculture sector contributes significantly to air pollution. By promoting sustainable agricultural practices, such as reducing the overconsumption of water and optimizing fertilizer usage, emissions can be lowered. Additionally, modifying the diets of livestock has proven effective in reducing agricultural methane emissions, as seen in initiatives undertaken by Australia.

These strategies provide a comprehensive approach to reducing emissions from power plants, contributing to the broader goal of improving air quality and protecting public health.

Decarbonise the transport sector

Transport accounts for approximately one-fifth of global carbon dioxide emissions, or 8 billion tonnes. This figure is expected to increase significantly over the next 30 years due to rising transport demand. To reduce ground-level pollutants, it is crucial to decarbonise the transport sector.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has outlined three methods to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from transportation:

• Increase the efficiency of vehicle technology: This can be achieved through weight reduction, engine improvements, and enhancements to tires, making vehicles more fuel-efficient and less reliant on oil.
• Electric vehicles (EVs): EV technology has made significant progress, with battery costs declining by 90% in recent years. While producing EV batteries has environmental consequences, companies are building a more sustainable supply chain by improving battery efficiency and lifespan, exploring alternative resources, and recycling old batteries.
• Alternative fuels: Using fuels with a minimal carbon footprint, such as biofuels, renewable natural gas, hydrogen, and sustainable aviation fuel, can help reduce emissions.

In addition to the above, governments can play a crucial role in implementing tighter fuel and vehicle emission standards, providing incentives for zero-emission vehicles, funding charging infrastructure, and supporting research into low-carbon fuels. For example, the UK government has emphasised the need to promote cleaner transport by encouraging active travel, such as cycling and walking, and electrifying rail networks.

The transport sector also includes freight and supply chain emissions, which have reached record highs. To address this, we can prioritise rail and marine vessels over road transport, implement eco-delivery solutions, and improve the efficiency of how we transport goods.

By implementing these strategies and innovations, we can accelerate the decarbonisation of the transport sector and contribute to the global effort to reduce ground-level pollutants and combat climate change.

Sustainable agriculture

Reducing Chemical Fertilizers and Manure

Excessive use of chemical fertilizers and animal manure can lead to nutrient losses that negatively impact air and water quality. By adopting nutrient management techniques, farmers can apply the right amount of nutrients at the appropriate time of year and with suitable methods to minimize their environmental footprint. This helps prevent eutrophication, hypoxia, harmful algal blooms, and the release of toxins harmful to humans and wildlife.

Conservation Drainage Practices

Implementing subsurface tile drainage and conservation drainage practices are important strategies to manage water movement and reduce nutrient loads in drainage water. This includes modifying drainage system designs and operations, utilizing woodchip bioreactors, saturated buffers, and making adjustments to the drainage ditch system.

Year-Round Ground Cover

Ensuring year-round ground cover by planting cover crops or perennial species prevents soil erosion and nutrient loss. These crops protect and improve soil health, prevent weeds, and reduce the need for fertilizers.

Field Buffers

Planting trees, shrubs, and grasses along field edges, especially those bordering water bodies, helps prevent nutrient loss. These buffers act as natural filters, absorbing and trapping excess nutrients before they reach water bodies.

Conservation Tillage

Reducing the frequency and intensity of tilling improves soil health, reduces erosion, and minimizes the risk of nutrients reaching waterways through runoff.

Livestock Management

Keeping livestock and their waste away from streams and water bodies is essential. Installing fences along water sources helps restore stream banks and prevents excess nutrients from entering the water.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

By applying a range of mechanical and biological controls, farmers can effectively manage pest populations while minimizing the use of chemical pesticides.

Agroforestry Practices

Integrating trees or shrubs into farming operations provides shade and shelter for plants, animals, and water resources. Additionally, it offers potential additional income from fruit or nut crops.

Whole-System Management

Sustainable farms view uncultivated or less intensively cultivated areas as integral parts of the farm. Natural vegetation alongside streams or strips of prairie plants within or around crop fields can help control erosion, reduce nutrient runoff, and support biodiversity, including bees and other pollinators.

Crop Rotation and Diversity

Planting a variety of crops through intercropping and complex multiyear crop rotations improves soil health, enhances pest control, and reduces the need for chemical inputs.

Soil Health and Erosion Control

Building healthy soil and preventing erosion are fundamental aspects of sustainable agriculture. This includes practices such as no-till or reduced-till methods, where seeds are inserted directly into undisturbed soil, minimizing soil loss and improving soil structure.

Water Management

Managing water resources wisely is crucial. This involves implementing strategies to reduce water consumption, prevent runoff, and protect watersheds and water quality.

Greenhouse Gas Reduction

Agricultural practices significantly contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. By adopting sustainable methods, such as reducing the use of gasoline-powered machinery, integrating livestock and crops, and utilizing renewable energy sources, farms can minimize their carbon footprint.

Biodiversity Conservation

Promoting biodiversity is essential for sustainable agriculture. This includes preserving and restoring critical habitats, protecting wild species and spaces, and supporting pollinators and other beneficial organisms.

Social and Economic Sustainability

An economically and socially sustainable agriculture system enables farms of all sizes to be profitable and contribute to their local communities. It involves fair treatment of workers, promotion of racial equity and justice, access to healthy food for all, and prioritization of people's well-being over corporate interests.

Carbon tax system

A carbon tax system is a strategy that can be used to reduce ground-level pollutants. It is a form of environmental cost internalisation, where a tax is imposed on the producers of raw fossil fuels based on their carbon content. Governments set a fixed price that emitting companies must pay for each ton of greenhouse gas emissions they emit. This provides an incentive for producers and consumers to reduce energy use, switch to lower-carbon or more efficient fuels, and adopt renewable energy sources.

The case for carbon taxes is strong, as they can be easily administered and collected from fuel suppliers, who will pass on the tax in the form of higher prices for electricity, gasoline, and other products and services that depend on fossil fuels. This will encourage consumers to reduce their energy consumption and opt for more energy-efficient alternatives. Additionally, carbon taxes can generate significant revenue for governments, which can be used to fund initiatives to achieve sustainability goals, reduce taxes on productive activities, or be given back to consumers in the form of carbon dividends.

Carbon taxes also have international appeal, as they can be integrated into the royalties paid by coal mining and oil and gas drilling industries. Developing economies may find this particularly attractive, as large informal sectors of their economy may constrain revenue collection from broader taxes on income and profits. Furthermore, with the establishment of emission-monitoring capacity, carbon taxes can be applied to other sources of greenhouse gases, such as emissions from forestry, international transportation, cement manufacturing, and mining activities.

The effectiveness of carbon taxes in reducing emissions has been demonstrated. For example, a $35 per ton carbon tax would be highly effective in reducing emissions in heavy coal-using countries like China, India, and South Africa, roughly doubling coal prices. However, introducing carbon taxes can be politically challenging, and it is important to gradually implement them with targeted assistance for low-income households, trade-dependent industries, and vulnerable workers.

In conclusion, a carbon tax system is a powerful strategy to reduce ground-level pollutants by discouraging the use of fossil fuels and promoting a shift to less polluting and more sustainable alternatives. It provides incentives for both producers and consumers to reduce their carbon footprint, while also generating revenue to fund sustainability initiatives and reduce other taxes.

Frequently asked questions