environment air pollution essay

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Air pollution.

Air pollution consists of chemicals or particles in the air that can harm the health of humans, animals, and plants. It also damages buildings.

Biology, Ecology, Earth Science, Geography

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Air pollution consists of chemicals or particles in the air that can harm the health of humans, animals, and plants. It also damages buildings. Pollutants in the air take many forms. They can be gases , solid particles, or liquid droplets. Sources of Air Pollution Pollution enters the Earth's atmosphere in many different ways. Most air pollution is created by people, taking the form of emissions from factories, cars, planes, or aerosol cans . Second-hand cigarette smoke is also considered air pollution. These man-made sources of pollution are called anthropogenic sources . Some types of air pollution, such as smoke from wildfires or ash from volcanoes , occur naturally. These are called natural sources . Air pollution is most common in large cities where emissions from many different sources are concentrated . Sometimes, mountains or tall buildings prevent air pollution from spreading out. This air pollution often appears as a cloud making the air murky. It is called smog . The word "smog" comes from combining the words "smoke" and " fog ." Large cities in poor and developing nations tend to have more air pollution than cities in developed nations. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) , some of the worlds most polluted cities are Karachi, Pakistan; New Delhi, India; Beijing, China; Lima, Peru; and Cairo, Egypt. However, many developed nations also have air pollution problems. Los Angeles, California, is nicknamed Smog City. Indoor Air Pollution Air pollution is usually thought of as smoke from large factories or exhaust from vehicles. But there are many types of indoor air pollution as well. Heating a house by burning substances such as kerosene , wood, and coal can contaminate the air inside the house. Ash and smoke make breathing difficult, and they can stick to walls, food, and clothing. Naturally-occurring radon gas, a cancer -causing material, can also build up in homes. Radon is released through the surface of the Earth. Inexpensive systems installed by professionals can reduce radon levels. Some construction materials, including insulation , are also dangerous to people's health. In addition, ventilation , or air movement, in homes and rooms can lead to the spread of toxic mold . A single colony of mold may exist in a damp, cool place in a house, such as between walls. The mold's spores enter the air and spread throughout the house. People can become sick from breathing in the spores. Effects On Humans People experience a wide range of health effects from being exposed to air pollution. Effects can be broken down into short-term effects and long-term effects . Short-term effects, which are temporary , include illnesses such as pneumonia or bronchitis . They also include discomfort such as irritation to the nose, throat, eyes, or skin. Air pollution can also cause headaches, dizziness, and nausea . Bad smells made by factories, garbage , or sewer systems are considered air pollution, too. These odors are less serious but still unpleasant . Long-term effects of air pollution can last for years or for an entire lifetime. They can even lead to a person's death. Long-term health effects from air pollution include heart disease , lung cancer, and respiratory diseases such as emphysema . Air pollution can also cause long-term damage to people's nerves , brain, kidneys , liver , and other organs. Some scientists suspect air pollutants cause birth defects . Nearly 2.5 million people die worldwide each year from the effects of outdoor or indoor air pollution. People react differently to different types of air pollution. Young children and older adults, whose immune systems tend to be weaker, are often more sensitive to pollution. Conditions such as asthma , heart disease, and lung disease can be made worse by exposure to air pollution. The length of exposure and amount and type of pollutants are also factors. Effects On The Environment Like people, animals, and plants, entire ecosystems can suffer effects from air pollution. Haze , like smog, is a visible type of air pollution that obscures shapes and colors. Hazy air pollution can even muffle sounds. Air pollution particles eventually fall back to Earth. Air pollution can directly contaminate the surface of bodies of water and soil . This can kill crops or reduce their yield . It can kill young trees and other plants. Sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide particles in the air, can create acid rain when they mix with water and oxygen in the atmosphere. These air pollutants come mostly from coal-fired power plants and motor vehicles . When acid rain falls to Earth, it damages plants by changing soil composition ; degrades water quality in rivers, lakes and streams; damages crops; and can cause buildings and monuments to decay . Like humans, animals can suffer health effects from exposure to air pollution. Birth defects, diseases, and lower reproductive rates have all been attributed to air pollution. Global Warming Global warming is an environmental phenomenon caused by natural and anthropogenic air pollution. It refers to rising air and ocean temperatures around the world. This temperature rise is at least partially caused by an increase in the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. Greenhouse gases trap heat energy in the Earths atmosphere. (Usually, more of Earths heat escapes into space.) Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas that has had the biggest effect on global warming. Carbon dioxide is emitted into the atmosphere by burning fossil fuels (coal, gasoline , and natural gas ). Humans have come to rely on fossil fuels to power cars and planes, heat homes, and run factories. Doing these things pollutes the air with carbon dioxide. Other greenhouse gases emitted by natural and artificial sources also include methane , nitrous oxide , and fluorinated gases. Methane is a major emission from coal plants and agricultural processes. Nitrous oxide is a common emission from industrial factories, agriculture, and the burning of fossil fuels in cars. Fluorinated gases, such as hydrofluorocarbons , are emitted by industry. Fluorinated gases are often used instead of gases such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). CFCs have been outlawed in many places because they deplete the ozone layer . Worldwide, many countries have taken steps to reduce or limit greenhouse gas emissions to combat global warming. The Kyoto Protocol , first adopted in Kyoto, Japan, in 1997, is an agreement between 183 countries that they will work to reduce their carbon dioxide emissions. The United States has not signed that treaty . Regulation In addition to the international Kyoto Protocol, most developed nations have adopted laws to regulate emissions and reduce air pollution. In the United States, debate is under way about a system called cap and trade to limit emissions. This system would cap, or place a limit, on the amount of pollution a company is allowed. Companies that exceeded their cap would have to pay. Companies that polluted less than their cap could trade or sell their remaining pollution allowance to other companies. Cap and trade would essentially pay companies to limit pollution. In 2006 the World Health Organization issued new Air Quality Guidelines. The WHOs guidelines are tougher than most individual countries existing guidelines. The WHO guidelines aim to reduce air pollution-related deaths by 15 percent a year. Reduction Anybody can take steps to reduce air pollution. Millions of people every day make simple changes in their lives to do this. Taking public transportation instead of driving a car, or riding a bike instead of traveling in carbon dioxide-emitting vehicles are a couple of ways to reduce air pollution. Avoiding aerosol cans, recycling yard trimmings instead of burning them, and not smoking cigarettes are others.

Downwinders The United States conducted tests of nuclear weapons at the Nevada Test Site in southern Nevada in the 1950s. These tests sent invisible radioactive particles into the atmosphere. These air pollution particles traveled with wind currents, eventually falling to Earth, sometimes hundreds of miles away in states including Idaho, Utah, Arizona, and Washington. These areas were considered to be "downwind" from the Nevada Test Site. Decades later, people living in those downwind areascalled "downwinders"began developing cancer at above-normal rates. In 1990, the U.S. government passed the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act. This law entitles some downwinders to payments of $50,000.

Greenhouse Gases There are five major greenhouse gases in Earth's atmosphere.

• water vapor
• carbon dioxide
• nitrous oxide

London Smog What has come to be known as the London Smog of 1952, or the Great Smog of 1952, was a four-day incident that sickened 100,000 people and caused as many as 12,000 deaths. Very cold weather in December 1952 led residents of London, England, to burn more coal to keep warm. Smoke and other pollutants became trapped by a thick fog that settled over the city. The polluted fog became so thick that people could only see a few meters in front of them.

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air pollution

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• United States Environment Protection Agency - Air Pollution: Current and Future Challenges
• Natural Resources Defense Council - Air Pollution: Everything You Need to Know
• National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences - Air Pollution
• National Center for Biotechnology Information - PubMed Central - Air pollution: Impact and prevention
• Frontiers - Air pollution and rhinitis
• Environmental Pollution Centers - What is Air Pollution?
• air pollution - Student Encyclopedia (Ages 11 and up)
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air pollution , release into the atmosphere of various gases , finely divided solids, or finely dispersed liquid aerosols at rates that exceed the natural capacity of the environment to dissipate and dilute or absorb them. These substances may reach concentrations in the air that cause undesirable health, economic, or aesthetic effects.

Major air pollutants

Criteria pollutants.

Clean, dry air consists primarily of nitrogen and oxygen —78 percent and 21 percent respectively, by volume. The remaining 1 percent is a mixture of other gases, mostly argon (0.9 percent), along with trace (very small) amounts of carbon dioxide , methane , hydrogen , helium , and more. Water vapour is also a normal, though quite variable, component of the atmosphere, normally ranging from 0.01 to 4 percent by volume; under very humid conditions the moisture content of air may be as high as 5 percent.

There are six major air pollutants that have been designated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as “criteria” pollutants — criteria meaning that the concentrations of these pollutants in the atmosphere are useful as indicators of overall air quality. The sources, acceptable concentrations, and effects of the criteria pollutants are summarized in the table.

The gaseous criteria air pollutants of primary concern in urban settings include sulfur dioxide , nitrogen dioxide , and carbon monoxide ; these are emitted directly into the air from fossil fuels such as fuel oil , gasoline , and natural gas that are burned in power plants, automobiles, and other combustion sources. Ozone (a key component of smog ) is also a gaseous pollutant; it forms in the atmosphere via complex chemical reactions occurring between nitrogen dioxide and various volatile organic compounds (e.g., gasoline vapours).

Airborne suspensions of extremely small solid or liquid particles called “particulates” (e.g., soot, dust, smokes, fumes, mists), especially those less than 10 micrometres (μm; millionths of a metre) in size, are significant air pollutants because of their very harmful effects on human health. They are emitted by various industrial processes, coal- or oil-burning power plants, residential heating systems, and automobiles. Lead fumes (airborne particulates less than 0.5 μm in size) are particularly toxic and are an important pollutant of many diesel fuels .

Except for lead, criteria pollutants are emitted in industrialized countries at very high rates, typically measured in millions of tons per year. All except ozone are discharged directly into the atmosphere from a wide variety of sources. They are regulated primarily by establishing ambient air quality standards, which are maximum acceptable concentrations of each criteria pollutant in the atmosphere, regardless of its origin. The six criteria pollutants are described in turn below.

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• Environmental Pollution Essay

Essay on Environmental Pollution

The environment is the surrounding of an organism. The environment in which an organism lives is made up of various components like air, water, land, etc. These components are found in fixed proportions to create a harmonious balance in the environment for the organism to live in. Any kind of undesirable and unwanted change in the proportions of these components can be termed as pollution. This issue is increasing with every passing year. It is an issue that creates economic, physical, and social troubles. The environmental problem that is worsening with each day needs to be addressed so that its harmful effects on humans as well as the planet can be discarded.

Causes of Environmental Pollution 

With the rise of the industries and the migration of people from villages to cities in search of employment, there has been a regular increase in the problem of proper housing and unhygienic living conditions. These reasons have given rise to factors that cause pollution. 

Environmental pollution is of five basic types namely, Air, Water, Soil, and Noise pollution. 

Air Pollution: Air pollution is a major issue in today’s world. The smoke pouring out of factory chimneys and automobiles pollute the air that we breathe in. Gases like carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and sulphur dioxide are emitted with this smoke which mixes with air and causes great harm to the human body, flora, and fauna. The dry-farm waste, dry grass, leaves, and coal used as domestic fuels in our villages also produce harmful gases. Acid rain occurs due to an excess of sulphur dioxide in the air.

The Main Sources of Air Pollution are as Follows:  

Automobile pollution 

Industrial air pollution 

Burning garbage 

Brick kilns 

Indoor air pollution 

Decomposed animals and plants 

Radioactive elements

Water Pollution: Water pollution is one of the most serious environmental issues. The waste products from the growing industries and sewage water are not treated properly before disposing of the wastewater into the rivers and other water bodies, thus leading to water pollution. Agricultural processes with excess fertilizers and pesticides also pollute the water bodies. 

The Main Sources of Water Pollution as Follows:  

Marine commerce. 

Industrial effluents joining seas and oceans. 

Dumping of radioactive substances into seawater. 

Sewage is disposed of into the sea by rivers. 

Offshore oil rigs. 

Recreational activities. 

Agricultural pollutants are disposed of into the water bodies.

Soil or Land Pollution: Soil pollution or land pollution results from the deposition of solid waste, accumulation of biodegradable material, deposition of chemicals with poisonous chemical compositions, etc on the open land. Waste materials such as plastics, polythene, and bottles, cause land pollution and render the soil infertile. Moreover, the dumping of dead bodies of animals adds to this issue. Soil pollution causes several diseases in man and animals like Cholera, Dysentery, Typhoid, etc.

The Main Causes of Soil Pollution are as Follows:  

Industrial waste 

Urban commercial and domestic waste 

Chemical fertilizers 

Biomedical waste 

Noise Pollution: With an increasing population, urbanization, and industrialization, noise pollution is becoming a serious form of pollution affecting human life, health, and comfort in daily life. Horns of vehicles, loudspeakers, music systems, and industrial activities contribute to noise pollution. 

The Main Sources of Noise Pollution as Follows:  

The machines in the factories and industries produce whistling sounds, crushing noise, and thundering sounds. 

Loudspeakers, horns of vehicles. 

Blasting of rocks and earth, drilling tube wells, ventilation fans, and heavy earth-moving machinery at construction sites.

How Pollution Harms Health and Environment

The lives of people and other creatures are affected by environmental pollution, both directly and indirectly. For centuries, these living organisms have coexisted with humans on the planet. 

1. Effect on the Environment

Smog is formed when carbon and dust particles bind together in the air, causing respiratory problems, haze, and smoke. These are created by the combustion of fossil fuels in industrial and manufacturing facilities and vehicle combustion of carbon fumes. 

Furthermore, these factors impact the immune systems of birds, making them carriers of viruses and diseases. It also has an impact on the body's system and organs. 

2.  Land, Soil, and Food Effects 

The degradation of human organic and chemical waste harms the land and soil. It also releases chemicals into the land and water. Pesticides, fertilisers, soil erosion, and crop residues are the main causes of land and soil pollution. 

3. Effects on water 

Water is easily contaminated by any pollutant, whether it be human waste or factory chemical discharge. We also use this water for crop irrigation and drinking. They, too, get polluted as a result of infection. Furthermore, an animal dies as a result of drinking the same tainted water. 

Furthermore, approximately 80% of land-based pollutants such as chemical, industrial, and agricultural waste wind up in water bodies. 

Furthermore, because these water basins eventually link to the sea, they contaminate the sea's biodiversity indirectly. 

4. Food Reaction

Crops and agricultural produce become poisonous as a result of contaminated soil and water. These crops are laced with chemical components from the start of their lives until harvest when they reach a mass level. Due to this, tainted food has an impact on our health and organs. 

5. Climate Change Impact 

Climate change is also a source of pollution in the environment. It also has an impact on the ecosystem's physical and biological components. 

Ozone depletion, greenhouse gas emissions, and global warming are all examples of environmental pollution. Because these water basins eventually link to the sea, they contaminate the sea's biodiversity indirectly. Furthermore, their consequences may be fatal for future generations. The unpredictably cold and hot climate impacts the earth’s natural system. 

Furthermore, earthquakes, starvation, smog, carbon particles, shallow rain or snow, thunderstorms, volcanic eruptions, and avalanches are all caused by climate change, caused entirely by environmental pollution.

How to Minimise Environmental Pollution? 

To minimise this issue, some preventive measures need to be taken. 

Principle of 3R’s: To save the environment, use the principle of 3 R’s; Reuse, Reduce and Recycle. 

Reuse products again and again. Instead of throwing away things after one use, find a way to use them again.  Reduce the generation of waste products.  

Recycle: Paper, plastics, glass, and electronic items can be processed into new products while using fewer natural resources and lesser energy. 

To prevent and control air pollution, better-designed equipment, and smokeless fuels should be used in homes and industries. More and more trees should be planted to balance the ecosystem and control greenhouse effects. 

Noise pollution can be minimised by better design and proper maintenance of vehicles. Industrial noise can be reduced by soundproofing equipment like generators, etc.  

To control soil pollution, we must stop the usage of plastic. Sewage should be treated properly before using it as fertilizers and as landfills. Encourage organic farming as this process involves the use of biological materials and avoiding synthetic substances to maintain soil fertility and ecological balance. 

Several measures can be adopted to control water pollution. Some of them are water consumption and usage that can be minimized by altering the techniques involved. Water should be reused with treatment. 

The melting icebergs in Antarctica resulted in rising sea levels due to the world's environmental pollution, which had become a serious problem due to global warming, which had become a significant concern. Rising carbon pollution poses a risk for causing natural disasters such as earthquakes, cyclones, and other natural disasters. 

The Hiroshima-Nagasaki and Chernobyl disasters in Russia have irreversibly harmed humanity. Different countries around the world are responding to these calamities in the most effective way possible. 

Different countries around the world are responding to these calamities in the most effective way possible. More public awareness campaigns are being established to educate people about the hazards of pollution and the importance of protecting our environment. Greener lifestyles are becoming more popular; for example, energy-efficient lighting, new climate-friendly autos, and the usage of wind and solar power are just a few examples. 

Governments emphasise the need to plant more trees, minimise the use of plastics, improve natural waste recovery, and reduce pesticide use. This ecological way of living has helped humanity save other creatures from extinction while making the Earth a greener and safer ecology. 

 Conclusion

It is the responsibility of every individual to save our planet from these environmental contamination agents. If preventive measures are not taken then our future generation will have to face major repercussions. The government is also taking steps to create public awareness. Every individual should be involved in helping to reduce and control pollution.

FAQs on Environmental Pollution Essay

1. What do you understand by ‘Environmental Pollution’?  

Environmental pollution is the contamination of the environment and surroundings like air, water, soil by the discharge of harmful substances.

2. What preventive measures should be taken to save our environment?

Some of the preventive measures that should be taken to save our environment are discussed below. 

We can save our environment by adopting the concept of carpooling and promoting public transport to save fuel. Smoking bars are public policies, including criminal laws and occupational safety and health regulations that prohibit tobacco smoking in workplaces and other public places.  

The use of Fossil fuels should be restricted because it causes major environmental issues like global warming.  

Encourage organic farming to maintain the fertility of the soil.

3.  What are the main sources of soil pollution?

The main sources of soil pollution as follows:

Industrial waste

Urban commercial and domestic waste

Chemical fertilizers

Biomedical waste

4. What is organic farming?

 It is a farming method that involves growing and nurturing crops without the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides.

REVIEW article

Environmental and health impacts of air pollution: a review.

• 1 Delphis S.A., Kifisia, Greece
• 2 Laboratory of Hygiene and Environmental Protection, Faculty of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
• 3 Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), Service de Médicine Interne, Lausanne, Switzerland
• 4 School of Social and Political Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom

One of our era's greatest scourges is air pollution, on account not only of its impact on climate change but also its impact on public and individual health due to increasing morbidity and mortality. There are many pollutants that are major factors in disease in humans. Among them, Particulate Matter (PM), particles of variable but very small diameter, penetrate the respiratory system via inhalation, causing respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, reproductive and central nervous system dysfunctions, and cancer. Despite the fact that ozone in the stratosphere plays a protective role against ultraviolet irradiation, it is harmful when in high concentration at ground level, also affecting the respiratory and cardiovascular system. Furthermore, nitrogen oxide, sulfur dioxide, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), dioxins, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are all considered air pollutants that are harmful to humans. Carbon monoxide can even provoke direct poisoning when breathed in at high levels. Heavy metals such as lead, when absorbed into the human body, can lead to direct poisoning or chronic intoxication, depending on exposure. Diseases occurring from the aforementioned substances include principally respiratory problems such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), asthma, bronchiolitis, and also lung cancer, cardiovascular events, central nervous system dysfunctions, and cutaneous diseases. Last but not least, climate change resulting from environmental pollution affects the geographical distribution of many infectious diseases, as do natural disasters. The only way to tackle this problem is through public awareness coupled with a multidisciplinary approach by scientific experts; national and international organizations must address the emergence of this threat and propose sustainable solutions.

Approach to the Problem

The interactions between humans and their physical surroundings have been extensively studied, as multiple human activities influence the environment. The environment is a coupling of the biotic (living organisms and microorganisms) and the abiotic (hydrosphere, lithosphere, and atmosphere).

Pollution is defined as the introduction into the environment of substances harmful to humans and other living organisms. Pollutants are harmful solids, liquids, or gases produced in higher than usual concentrations that reduce the quality of our environment.

Human activities have an adverse effect on the environment by polluting the water we drink, the air we breathe, and the soil in which plants grow. Although the industrial revolution was a great success in terms of technology, society, and the provision of multiple services, it also introduced the production of huge quantities of pollutants emitted into the air that are harmful to human health. Without any doubt, the global environmental pollution is considered an international public health issue with multiple facets. Social, economic, and legislative concerns and lifestyle habits are related to this major problem. Clearly, urbanization and industrialization are reaching unprecedented and upsetting proportions worldwide in our era. Anthropogenic air pollution is one of the biggest public health hazards worldwide, given that it accounts for about 9 million deaths per year ( 1 ).

Without a doubt, all of the aforementioned are closely associated with climate change, and in the event of danger, the consequences can be severe for mankind ( 2 ). Climate changes and the effects of global planetary warming seriously affect multiple ecosystems, causing problems such as food safety issues, ice and iceberg melting, animal extinction, and damage to plants ( 3 , 4 ).

Air pollution has various health effects. The health of susceptible and sensitive individuals can be impacted even on low air pollution days. Short-term exposure to air pollutants is closely related to COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), cough, shortness of breath, wheezing, asthma, respiratory disease, and high rates of hospitalization (a measurement of morbidity).

The long-term effects associated with air pollution are chronic asthma, pulmonary insufficiency, cardiovascular diseases, and cardiovascular mortality. According to a Swedish cohort study, diabetes seems to be induced after long-term air pollution exposure ( 5 ). Moreover, air pollution seems to have various malign health effects in early human life, such as respiratory, cardiovascular, mental, and perinatal disorders ( 3 ), leading to infant mortality or chronic disease in adult age ( 6 ).

National reports have mentioned the increased risk of morbidity and mortality ( 1 ). These studies were conducted in many places around the world and show a correlation between daily ranges of particulate matter (PM) concentration and daily mortality. Climate shifts and global planetary warming ( 3 ) could aggravate the situation. Besides, increased hospitalization (an index of morbidity) has been registered among the elderly and susceptible individuals for specific reasons. Fine and ultrafine particulate matter seems to be associated with more serious illnesses ( 6 ), as it can invade the deepest parts of the airways and more easily reach the bloodstream.

Air pollution mainly affects those living in large urban areas, where road emissions contribute the most to the degradation of air quality. There is also a danger of industrial accidents, where the spread of a toxic fog can be fatal to the populations of the surrounding areas. The dispersion of pollutants is determined by many parameters, most notably atmospheric stability and wind ( 6 ).

In developing countries ( 7 ), the problem is more serious due to overpopulation and uncontrolled urbanization along with the development of industrialization. This leads to poor air quality, especially in countries with social disparities and a lack of information on sustainable management of the environment. The use of fuels such as wood fuel or solid fuel for domestic needs due to low incomes exposes people to bad-quality, polluted air at home. It is of note that three billion people around the world are using the above sources of energy for their daily heating and cooking needs ( 8 ). In developing countries, the women of the household seem to carry the highest risk for disease development due to their longer duration exposure to the indoor air pollution ( 8 , 9 ). Due to its fast industrial development and overpopulation, China is one of the Asian countries confronting serious air pollution problems ( 10 , 11 ). The lung cancer mortality observed in China is associated with fine particles ( 12 ). As stated already, long-term exposure is associated with deleterious effects on the cardiovascular system ( 3 , 5 ). However, it is interesting to note that cardiovascular diseases have mostly been observed in developed and high-income countries rather than in the developing low-income countries exposed highly to air pollution ( 13 ). Extreme air pollution is recorded in India, where the air quality reaches hazardous levels. New Delhi is one of the more polluted cities in India. Flights in and out of New Delhi International Airport are often canceled due to the reduced visibility associated with air pollution. Pollution is occurring both in urban and rural areas in India due to the fast industrialization, urbanization, and rise in use of motorcycle transportation. Nevertheless, biomass combustion associated with heating and cooking needs and practices is a major source of household air pollution in India and in Nepal ( 14 , 15 ). There is spatial heterogeneity in India, as areas with diverse climatological conditions and population and education levels generate different indoor air qualities, with higher PM 2.5 observed in North Indian states (557–601 μg/m 3 ) compared to the Southern States (183–214 μg/m 3 ) ( 16 , 17 ). The cold climate of the North Indian areas may be the main reason for this, as longer periods at home and more heating are necessary compared to in the tropical climate of Southern India. Household air pollution in India is associated with major health effects, especially in women and young children, who stay indoors for longer periods. Chronic obstructive respiratory disease (CORD) and lung cancer are mostly observed in women, while acute lower respiratory disease is seen in young children under 5 years of age ( 18 ).

Accumulation of air pollution, especially sulfur dioxide and smoke, reaching 1,500 mg/m3, resulted in an increase in the number of deaths (4,000 deaths) in December 1952 in London and in 1963 in New York City (400 deaths) ( 19 ). An association of pollution with mortality was reported on the basis of monitoring of outdoor pollution in six US metropolitan cities ( 20 ). In every case, it seems that mortality was closely related to the levels of fine, inhalable, and sulfate particles more than with the levels of total particulate pollution, aerosol acidity, sulfur dioxide, or nitrogen dioxide ( 20 ).

Furthermore, extremely high levels of pollution are reported in Mexico City and Rio de Janeiro, followed by Milan, Ankara, Melbourne, Tokyo, and Moscow ( 19 ).

Based on the magnitude of the public health impact, it is certain that different kinds of interventions should be taken into account. Success and effectiveness in controlling air pollution, specifically at the local level, have been reported. Adequate technological means are applied considering the source and the nature of the emission as well as its impact on health and the environment. The importance of point sources and non-point sources of air pollution control is reported by Schwela and Köth-Jahr ( 21 ). Without a doubt, a detailed emission inventory must record all sources in a given area. Beyond considering the above sources and their nature, topography and meteorology should also be considered, as stated previously. Assessment of the control policies and methods is often extrapolated from the local to the regional and then to the global scale. Air pollution may be dispersed and transported from one region to another area located far away. Air pollution management means the reduction to acceptable levels or possible elimination of air pollutants whose presence in the air affects our health or the environmental ecosystem. Private and governmental entities and authorities implement actions to ensure the air quality ( 22 ). Air quality standards and guidelines were adopted for the different pollutants by the WHO and EPA as a tool for the management of air quality ( 1 , 23 ). These standards have to be compared to the emissions inventory standards by causal analysis and dispersion modeling in order to reveal the problematic areas ( 24 ). Inventories are generally based on a combination of direct measurements and emissions modeling ( 24 ).

As an example, we state here the control measures at the source through the use of catalytic converters in cars. These are devices that turn the pollutants and toxic gases produced from combustion engines into less-toxic pollutants by catalysis through redox reactions ( 25 ). In Greece, the use of private cars was restricted by tracking their license plates in order to reduce traffic congestion during rush hour ( 25 ).

Concerning industrial emissions, collectors and closed systems can keep the air pollution to the minimal standards imposed by legislation ( 26 ).

Current strategies to improve air quality require an estimation of the economic value of the benefits gained from proposed programs. These proposed programs by public authorities, and directives are issued with guidelines to be respected.

In Europe, air quality limit values AQLVs (Air Quality Limit Values) are issued for setting off planning claims ( 27 ). In the USA, the NAAQS (National Ambient Air Quality Standards) establish the national air quality limit values ( 27 ). While both standards and directives are based on different mechanisms, significant success has been achieved in the reduction of overall emissions and associated health and environmental effects ( 27 ). The European Directive identifies geographical areas of risk exposure as monitoring/assessment zones to record the emission sources and levels of air pollution ( 27 ), whereas the USA establishes global geographical air quality criteria according to the severity of their air quality problem and records all sources of the pollutants and their precursors ( 27 ).

In this vein, funds have been financing, directly or indirectly, projects related to air quality along with the technical infrastructure to maintain good air quality. These plans focus on an inventory of databases from air quality environmental planning awareness campaigns. Moreover, pollution measures of air emissions may be taken for vehicles, machines, and industries in urban areas.

Technological innovation can only be successful if it is able to meet the needs of society. In this sense, technology must reflect the decision-making practices and procedures of those involved in risk assessment and evaluation and act as a facilitator in providing information and assessments to enable decision makers to make the best decisions possible. Summarizing the aforementioned in order to design an effective air quality control strategy, several aspects must be considered: environmental factors and ambient air quality conditions, engineering factors and air pollutant characteristics, and finally, economic operating costs for technological improvement and administrative and legal costs. Considering the economic factor, competitiveness through neoliberal concepts is offering a solution to environmental problems ( 22 ).

The development of environmental governance, along with technological progress, has initiated the deployment of a dialogue. Environmental politics has created objections and points of opposition between different political parties, scientists, media, and governmental and non-governmental organizations ( 22 ). Radical environmental activism actions and movements have been created ( 22 ). The rise of the new information and communication technologies (ICTs) are many times examined as to whether and in which way they have influenced means of communication and social movements such as activism ( 28 ). Since the 1990s, the term “digital activism” has been used increasingly and in many different disciplines ( 29 ). Nowadays, multiple digital technologies can be used to produce a digital activism outcome on environmental issues. More specifically, devices with online capabilities such as computers or mobile phones are being used as a way to pursue change in political and social affairs ( 30 ).

In the present paper, we focus on the sources of environmental pollution in relation to public health and propose some solutions and interventions that may be of interest to environmental legislators and decision makers.

Sources of Exposure

It is known that the majority of environmental pollutants are emitted through large-scale human activities such as the use of industrial machinery, power-producing stations, combustion engines, and cars. Because these activities are performed at such a large scale, they are by far the major contributors to air pollution, with cars estimated to be responsible for approximately 80% of today's pollution ( 31 ). Some other human activities are also influencing our environment to a lesser extent, such as field cultivation techniques, gas stations, fuel tanks heaters, and cleaning procedures ( 32 ), as well as several natural sources, such as volcanic and soil eruptions and forest fires.

The classification of air pollutants is based mainly on the sources producing pollution. Therefore, it is worth mentioning the four main sources, following the classification system: Major sources, Area sources, Mobile sources, and Natural sources.

Major sources include the emission of pollutants from power stations, refineries, and petrochemicals, the chemical and fertilizer industries, metallurgical and other industrial plants, and, finally, municipal incineration.

Indoor area sources include domestic cleaning activities, dry cleaners, printing shops, and petrol stations.

Mobile sources include automobiles, cars, railways, airways, and other types of vehicles.

Finally, natural sources include, as stated previously, physical disasters ( 33 ) such as forest fire, volcanic erosion, dust storms, and agricultural burning.

However, many classification systems have been proposed. Another type of classification is a grouping according to the recipient of the pollution, as follows:

Air pollution is determined as the presence of pollutants in the air in large quantities for long periods. Air pollutants are dispersed particles, hydrocarbons, CO, CO 2 , NO, NO 2 , SO 3 , etc.

Water pollution is organic and inorganic charge and biological charge ( 10 ) at high levels that affect the water quality ( 34 , 35 ).

Soil pollution occurs through the release of chemicals or the disposal of wastes, such as heavy metals, hydrocarbons, and pesticides.

Air pollution can influence the quality of soil and water bodies by polluting precipitation, falling into water and soil environments ( 34 , 36 ). Notably, the chemistry of the soil can be amended due to acid precipitation by affecting plants, cultures, and water quality ( 37 ). Moreover, movement of heavy metals is favored by soil acidity, and metals are so then moving into the watery environment. It is known that heavy metals such as aluminum are noxious to wildlife and fishes. Soil quality seems to be of importance, as soils with low calcium carbonate levels are at increased jeopardy from acid rain. Over and above rain, snow and particulate matter drip into watery ' bodies ( 36 , 38 ).

Lastly, pollution is classified following type of origin:

Radioactive and nuclear pollution , releasing radioactive and nuclear pollutants into water, air, and soil during nuclear explosions and accidents, from nuclear weapons, and through handling or disposal of radioactive sewage.

Radioactive materials can contaminate surface water bodies and, being noxious to the environment, plants, animals, and humans. It is known that several radioactive substances such as radium and uranium concentrate in the bones and can cause cancers ( 38 , 39 ).

Noise pollution is produced by machines, vehicles, traffic noises, and musical installations that are harmful to our hearing.

The World Health Organization introduced the term DALYs. The DALYs for a disease or health condition is defined as the sum of the Years of Life Lost (YLL) due to premature mortality in the population and the Years Lost due to Disability (YLD) for people living with the health condition or its consequences ( 39 ). In Europe, air pollution is the main cause of disability-adjusted life years lost (DALYs), followed by noise pollution. The potential relationships of noise and air pollution with health have been studied ( 40 ). The study found that DALYs related to noise were more important than those related to air pollution, as the effects of environmental noise on cardiovascular disease were independent of air pollution ( 40 ). Environmental noise should be counted as an independent public health risk ( 40 ).

Environmental pollution occurs when changes in the physical, chemical, or biological constituents of the environment (air masses, temperature, climate, etc.) are produced.

Pollutants harm our environment either by increasing levels above normal or by introducing harmful toxic substances. Primary pollutants are directly produced from the above sources, and secondary pollutants are emitted as by-products of the primary ones. Pollutants can be biodegradable or non-biodegradable and of natural origin or anthropogenic, as stated previously. Moreover, their origin can be a unique source (point-source) or dispersed sources.

Pollutants have differences in physical and chemical properties, explaining the discrepancy in their capacity for producing toxic effects. As an example, we state here that aerosol compounds ( 41 – 43 ) have a greater toxicity than gaseous compounds due to their tiny size (solid or liquid) in the atmosphere; they have a greater penetration capacity. Gaseous compounds are eliminated more easily by our respiratory system ( 41 ). These particles are able to damage lungs and can even enter the bloodstream ( 41 ), leading to the premature deaths of millions of people yearly. Moreover, the aerosol acidity ([H+]) seems to considerably enhance the production of secondary organic aerosols (SOA), but this last aspect is not supported by other scientific teams ( 38 ).

Climate and Pollution

Air pollution and climate change are closely related. Climate is the other side of the same coin that reduces the quality of our Earth ( 44 ). Pollutants such as black carbon, methane, tropospheric ozone, and aerosols affect the amount of incoming sunlight. As a result, the temperature of the Earth is increasing, resulting in the melting of ice, icebergs, and glaciers.

In this vein, climatic changes will affect the incidence and prevalence of both residual and imported infections in Europe. Climate and weather affect the duration, timing, and intensity of outbreaks strongly and change the map of infectious diseases in the globe ( 45 ). Mosquito-transmitted parasitic or viral diseases are extremely climate-sensitive, as warming firstly shortens the pathogen incubation period and secondly shifts the geographic map of the vector. Similarly, water-warming following climate changes leads to a high incidence of waterborne infections. Recently, in Europe, eradicated diseases seem to be emerging due to the migration of population, for example, cholera, poliomyelitis, tick-borne encephalitis, and malaria ( 46 ).

The spread of epidemics is associated with natural climate disasters and storms, which seem to occur more frequently nowadays ( 47 ). Malnutrition and disequilibration of the immune system are also associated with the emerging infections affecting public health ( 48 ).

The Chikungunya virus “took the airplane” from the Indian Ocean to Europe, as outbreaks of the disease were registered in Italy ( 49 ) as well as autochthonous cases in France ( 50 ).

An increase in cryptosporidiosis in the United Kingdom and in the Czech Republic seems to have occurred following flooding ( 36 , 51 ).

As stated previously, aerosols compounds are tiny in size and considerably affect the climate. They are able to dissipate sunlight (the albedo phenomenon) by dispersing a quarter of the sun's rays back to space and have cooled the global temperature over the last 30 years ( 52 ).

Air Pollutants

The World Health Organization (WHO) reports on six major air pollutants, namely particle pollution, ground-level ozone, carbon monoxide, sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides, and lead. Air pollution can have a disastrous effect on all components of the environment, including groundwater, soil, and air. Additionally, it poses a serious threat to living organisms. In this vein, our interest is mainly to focus on these pollutants, as they are related to more extensive and severe problems in human health and environmental impact. Acid rain, global warming, the greenhouse effect, and climate changes have an important ecological impact on air pollution ( 53 ).

Particulate Matter (PM) and Health

Studies have shown a relationship between particulate matter (PM) and adverse health effects, focusing on either short-term (acute) or long-term (chronic) PM exposure.

Particulate matter (PM) is usually formed in the atmosphere as a result of chemical reactions between the different pollutants. The penetration of particles is closely dependent on their size ( 53 ). Particulate Matter (PM) was defined as a term for particles by the United States Environmental Protection Agency ( 54 ). Particulate matter (PM) pollution includes particles with diameters of 10 micrometers (μm) or smaller, called PM 10 , and extremely fine particles with diameters that are generally 2.5 micrometers (μm) and smaller.

Particulate matter contains tiny liquid or solid droplets that can be inhaled and cause serious health effects ( 55 ). Particles <10 μm in diameter (PM 10 ) after inhalation can invade the lungs and even reach the bloodstream. Fine particles, PM 2.5 , pose a greater risk to health ( 6 , 56 ) ( Table 1 ).

Table 1 . Penetrability according to particle size.

Multiple epidemiological studies have been performed on the health effects of PM. A positive relation was shown between both short-term and long-term exposures of PM 2.5 and acute nasopharyngitis ( 56 ). In addition, long-term exposure to PM for years was found to be related to cardiovascular diseases and infant mortality.

Those studies depend on PM 2.5 monitors and are restricted in terms of study area or city area due to a lack of spatially resolved daily PM 2.5 concentration data and, in this way, are not representative of the entire population. Following a recent epidemiological study by the Department of Environmental Health at Harvard School of Public Health (Boston, MA) ( 57 ), it was reported that, as PM 2.5 concentrations vary spatially, an exposure error (Berkson error) seems to be produced, and the relative magnitudes of the short- and long-term effects are not yet completely elucidated. The team developed a PM 2.5 exposure model based on remote sensing data for assessing short- and long-term human exposures ( 57 ). This model permits spatial resolution in short-term effects plus the assessment of long-term effects in the whole population.

Moreover, respiratory diseases and affection of the immune system are registered as long-term chronic effects ( 58 ). It is worth noting that people with asthma, pneumonia, diabetes, and respiratory and cardiovascular diseases are especially susceptible and vulnerable to the effects of PM. PM 2.5 , followed by PM 10 , are strongly associated with diverse respiratory system diseases ( 59 ), as their size permits them to pierce interior spaces ( 60 ). The particles produce toxic effects according to their chemical and physical properties. The components of PM 10 and PM 2.5 can be organic (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, dioxins, benzene, 1-3 butadiene) or inorganic (carbon, chlorides, nitrates, sulfates, metals) in nature ( 55 ).

Particulate Matter (PM) is divided into four main categories according to type and size ( 61 ) ( Table 2 ).

Table 2 . Types and sizes of particulate Matter (PM).

Gas contaminants include PM in aerial masses.

Particulate contaminants include contaminants such as smog, soot, tobacco smoke, oil smoke, fly ash, and cement dust.

Biological Contaminants are microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, fungi, mold, and bacterial spores), cat allergens, house dust and allergens, and pollen.

Types of Dust include suspended atmospheric dust, settling dust, and heavy dust.

Finally, another fact is that the half-lives of PM 10 and PM 2.5 particles in the atmosphere is extended due to their tiny dimensions; this permits their long-lasting suspension in the atmosphere and even their transfer and spread to distant destinations where people and the environment may be exposed to the same magnitude of pollution ( 53 ). They are able to change the nutrient balance in watery ecosystems, damage forests and crops, and acidify water bodies.

As stated, PM 2.5 , due to their tiny size, are causing more serious health effects. These aforementioned fine particles are the main cause of the “haze” formation in different metropolitan areas ( 12 , 13 , 61 ).

Ozone Impact in the Atmosphere

Ozone (O 3 ) is a gas formed from oxygen under high voltage electric discharge ( 62 ). It is a strong oxidant, 52% stronger than chlorine. It arises in the stratosphere, but it could also arise following chain reactions of photochemical smog in the troposphere ( 63 ).

Ozone can travel to distant areas from its initial source, moving with air masses ( 64 ). It is surprising that ozone levels over cities are low in contrast to the increased amounts occuring in urban areas, which could become harmful for cultures, forests, and vegetation ( 65 ) as it is reducing carbon assimilation ( 66 ). Ozone reduces growth and yield ( 47 , 48 ) and affects the plant microflora due to its antimicrobial capacity ( 67 , 68 ). In this regard, ozone acts upon other natural ecosystems, with microflora ( 69 , 70 ) and animal species changing their species composition ( 71 ). Ozone increases DNA damage in epidermal keratinocytes and leads to impaired cellular function ( 72 ).

Ground-level ozone (GLO) is generated through a chemical reaction between oxides of nitrogen and VOCs emitted from natural sources and/or following anthropogenic activities.

Ozone uptake usually occurs by inhalation. Ozone affects the upper layers of the skin and the tear ducts ( 73 ). A study of short-term exposure of mice to high levels of ozone showed malondialdehyde formation in the upper skin (epidermis) but also depletion in vitamins C and E. It is likely that ozone levels are not interfering with the skin barrier function and integrity to predispose to skin disease ( 74 ).

Due to the low water-solubility of ozone, inhaled ozone has the capacity to penetrate deeply into the lungs ( 75 ).

Toxic effects induced by ozone are registered in urban areas all over the world, causing biochemical, morphologic, functional, and immunological disorders ( 76 ).

The European project (APHEA2) focuses on the acute effects of ambient ozone concentrations on mortality ( 77 ). Daily ozone concentrations compared to the daily number of deaths were reported from different European cities for a 3-year period. During the warm period of the year, an observed increase in ozone concentration was associated with an increase in the daily number of deaths (0.33%), in the number of respiratory deaths (1.13%), and in the number of cardiovascular deaths (0.45%). No effect was observed during wintertime.

Carbon Monoxide (CO)

Carbon monoxide is produced by fossil fuel when combustion is incomplete. The symptoms of poisoning due to inhaling carbon monoxide include headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, and, finally, loss of consciousness.

The affinity of carbon monoxide to hemoglobin is much greater than that of oxygen. In this vein, serious poisoning may occur in people exposed to high levels of carbon monoxide for a long period of time. Due to the loss of oxygen as a result of the competitive binding of carbon monoxide, hypoxia, ischemia, and cardiovascular disease are observed.

Carbon monoxide affects the greenhouses gases that are tightly connected to global warming and climate. This should lead to an increase in soil and water temperatures, and extreme weather conditions or storms may occur ( 68 ).

However, in laboratory and field experiments, it has been seen to produce increased plant growth ( 78 ).

Nitrogen Oxide (NO 2 )

Nitrogen oxide is a traffic-related pollutant, as it is emitted from automobile motor engines ( 79 , 80 ). It is an irritant of the respiratory system as it penetrates deep in the lung, inducing respiratory diseases, coughing, wheezing, dyspnea, bronchospasm, and even pulmonary edema when inhaled at high levels. It seems that concentrations over 0.2 ppm produce these adverse effects in humans, while concentrations higher than 2.0 ppm affect T-lymphocytes, particularly the CD8+ cells and NK cells that produce our immune response ( 81 ).It is reported that long-term exposure to high levels of nitrogen dioxide can be responsible for chronic lung disease. Long-term exposure to NO 2 can impair the sense of smell ( 81 ).

However, systems other than respiratory ones can be involved, as symptoms such as eye, throat, and nose irritation have been registered ( 81 ).

High levels of nitrogen dioxide are deleterious to crops and vegetation, as they have been observed to reduce crop yield and plant growth efficiency. Moreover, NO 2 can reduce visibility and discolor fabrics ( 81 ).

Sulfur Dioxide (SO 2 )

Sulfur dioxide is a harmful gas that is emitted mainly from fossil fuel consumption or industrial activities. The annual standard for SO 2 is 0.03 ppm ( 82 ). It affects human, animal, and plant life. Susceptible people as those with lung disease, old people, and children, who present a higher risk of damage. The major health problems associated with sulfur dioxide emissions in industrialized areas are respiratory irritation, bronchitis, mucus production, and bronchospasm, as it is a sensory irritant and penetrates deep into the lung converted into bisulfite and interacting with sensory receptors, causing bronchoconstriction. Moreover, skin redness, damage to the eyes (lacrimation and corneal opacity) and mucous membranes, and worsening of pre-existing cardiovascular disease have been observed ( 81 ).

Environmental adverse effects, such as acidification of soil and acid rain, seem to be associated with sulfur dioxide emissions ( 83 ).

Lead is a heavy metal used in different industrial plants and emitted from some petrol motor engines, batteries, radiators, waste incinerators, and waste waters ( 84 ).

Moreover, major sources of lead pollution in the air are metals, ore, and piston-engine aircraft. Lead poisoning is a threat to public health due to its deleterious effects upon humans, animals, and the environment, especially in the developing countries.

Exposure to lead can occur through inhalation, ingestion, and dermal absorption. Trans- placental transport of lead was also reported, as lead passes through the placenta unencumbered ( 85 ). The younger the fetus is, the more harmful the toxic effects. Lead toxicity affects the fetal nervous system; edema or swelling of the brain is observed ( 86 ). Lead, when inhaled, accumulates in the blood, soft tissue, liver, lung, bones, and cardiovascular, nervous, and reproductive systems. Moreover, loss of concentration and memory, as well as muscle and joint pain, were observed in adults ( 85 , 86 ).

Children and newborns ( 87 ) are extremely susceptible even to minimal doses of lead, as it is a neurotoxicant and causes learning disabilities, impairment of memory, hyperactivity, and even mental retardation.

Elevated amounts of lead in the environment are harmful to plants and crop growth. Neurological effects are observed in vertebrates and animals in association with high lead levels ( 88 ).

Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons(PAHs)

The distribution of PAHs is ubiquitous in the environment, as the atmosphere is the most important means of their dispersal. They are found in coal and in tar sediments. Moreover, they are generated through incomplete combustion of organic matter as in the cases of forest fires, incineration, and engines ( 89 ). PAH compounds, such as benzopyrene, acenaphthylene, anthracene, and fluoranthene are recognized as toxic, mutagenic, and carcinogenic substances. They are an important risk factor for lung cancer ( 89 ).

Volatile Organic Compounds(VOCs)

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs), such as toluene, benzene, ethylbenzene, and xylene ( 90 ), have been found to be associated with cancer in humans ( 91 ). The use of new products and materials has actually resulted in increased concentrations of VOCs. VOCs pollute indoor air ( 90 ) and may have adverse effects on human health ( 91 ). Short-term and long-term adverse effects on human health are observed. VOCs are responsible for indoor air smells. Short-term exposure is found to cause irritation of eyes, nose, throat, and mucosal membranes, while those of long duration exposure include toxic reactions ( 92 ). Predictable assessment of the toxic effects of complex VOC mixtures is difficult to estimate, as these pollutants can have synergic, antagonistic, or indifferent effects ( 91 , 93 ).

Dioxins originate from industrial processes but also come from natural processes, such as forest fires and volcanic eruptions. They accumulate in foods such as meat and dairy products, fish and shellfish, and especially in the fatty tissue of animals ( 94 ).

Short-period exhibition to high dioxin concentrations may result in dark spots and lesions on the skin ( 94 ). Long-term exposure to dioxins can cause developmental problems, impairment of the immune, endocrine and nervous systems, reproductive infertility, and cancer ( 94 ).

Without any doubt, fossil fuel consumption is responsible for a sizeable part of air contamination. This contamination may be anthropogenic, as in agricultural and industrial processes or transportation, while contamination from natural sources is also possible. Interestingly, it is of note that the air quality standards established through the European Air Quality Directive are somewhat looser than the WHO guidelines, which are stricter ( 95 ).

Effect of Air Pollution on Health

The most common air pollutants are ground-level ozone and Particulates Matter (PM). Air pollution is distinguished into two main types:

Outdoor pollution is the ambient air pollution.

Indoor pollution is the pollution generated by household combustion of fuels.

People exposed to high concentrations of air pollutants experience disease symptoms and states of greater and lesser seriousness. These effects are grouped into short- and long-term effects affecting health.

Susceptible populations that need to be aware of health protection measures include old people, children, and people with diabetes and predisposing heart or lung disease, especially asthma.

As extensively stated previously, according to a recent epidemiological study from Harvard School of Public Health, the relative magnitudes of the short- and long-term effects have not been completely clarified ( 57 ) due to the different epidemiological methodologies and to the exposure errors. New models are proposed for assessing short- and long-term human exposure data more successfully ( 57 ). Thus, in the present section, we report the more common short- and long-term health effects but also general concerns for both types of effects, as these effects are often dependent on environmental conditions, dose, and individual susceptibility.

Short-term effects are temporary and range from simple discomfort, such as irritation of the eyes, nose, skin, throat, wheezing, coughing and chest tightness, and breathing difficulties, to more serious states, such as asthma, pneumonia, bronchitis, and lung and heart problems. Short-term exposure to air pollution can also cause headaches, nausea, and dizziness.

These problems can be aggravated by extended long-term exposure to the pollutants, which is harmful to the neurological, reproductive, and respiratory systems and causes cancer and even, rarely, deaths.

The long-term effects are chronic, lasting for years or the whole life and can even lead to death. Furthermore, the toxicity of several air pollutants may also induce a variety of cancers in the long term ( 96 ).

As stated already, respiratory disorders are closely associated with the inhalation of air pollutants. These pollutants will invade through the airways and will accumulate at the cells. Damage to target cells should be related to the pollutant component involved and its source and dose. Health effects are also closely dependent on country, area, season, and time. An extended exposure duration to the pollutant should incline to long-term health effects in relation also to the above factors.

Particulate Matter (PMs), dust, benzene, and O 3 cause serious damage to the respiratory system ( 97 ). Moreover, there is a supplementary risk in case of existing respiratory disease such as asthma ( 98 ). Long-term effects are more frequent in people with a predisposing disease state. When the trachea is contaminated by pollutants, voice alterations may be remarked after acute exposure. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) may be induced following air pollution, increasing morbidity and mortality ( 99 ). Long-term effects from traffic, industrial air pollution, and combustion of fuels are the major factors for COPD risk ( 99 ).

Multiple cardiovascular effects have been observed after exposure to air pollutants ( 100 ). Changes occurred in blood cells after long-term exposure may affect cardiac functionality. Coronary arteriosclerosis was reported following long-term exposure to traffic emissions ( 101 ), while short-term exposure is related to hypertension, stroke, myocardial infracts, and heart insufficiency. Ventricle hypertrophy is reported to occur in humans after long-time exposure to nitrogen oxide (NO 2 ) ( 102 , 103 ).

Neurological effects have been observed in adults and children after extended-term exposure to air pollutants.

Psychological complications, autism, retinopathy, fetal growth, and low birth weight seem to be related to long-term air pollution ( 83 ). The etiologic agent of the neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer's and Parkinson's) is not yet known, although it is believed that extended exposure to air pollution seems to be a factor. Specifically, pesticides and metals are cited as etiological factors, together with diet. The mechanisms in the development of neurodegenerative disease include oxidative stress, protein aggregation, inflammation, and mitochondrial impairment in neurons ( 104 ) ( Figure 1 ).

Figure 1 . Impact of air pollutants on the brain.

Brain inflammation was observed in dogs living in a highly polluted area in Mexico for a long period ( 105 ). In human adults, markers of systemic inflammation (IL-6 and fibrinogen) were found to be increased as an immediate response to PNC on the IL-6 level, possibly leading to the production of acute-phase proteins ( 106 ). The progression of atherosclerosis and oxidative stress seem to be the mechanisms involved in the neurological disturbances caused by long-term air pollution. Inflammation comes secondary to the oxidative stress and seems to be involved in the impairment of developmental maturation, affecting multiple organs ( 105 , 107 ). Similarly, other factors seem to be involved in the developmental maturation, which define the vulnerability to long-term air pollution. These include birthweight, maternal smoking, genetic background and socioeconomic environment, as well as education level.

However, diet, starting from breast-feeding, is another determinant factor. Diet is the main source of antioxidants, which play a key role in our protection against air pollutants ( 108 ). Antioxidants are free radical scavengers and limit the interaction of free radicals in the brain ( 108 ). Similarly, genetic background may result in a differential susceptibility toward the oxidative stress pathway ( 60 ). For example, antioxidant supplementation with vitamins C and E appears to modulate the effect of ozone in asthmatic children homozygous for the GSTM1 null allele ( 61 ). Inflammatory cytokines released in the periphery (e.g., respiratory epithelia) upregulate the innate immune Toll-like receptor 2. Such activation and the subsequent events leading to neurodegeneration have recently been observed in lung lavage in mice exposed to ambient Los Angeles (CA, USA) particulate matter ( 61 ). In children, neurodevelopmental morbidities were observed after lead exposure. These children developed aggressive and delinquent behavior, reduced intelligence, learning difficulties, and hyperactivity ( 109 ). No level of lead exposure seems to be “safe,” and the scientific community has asked the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to reduce the current screening guideline of 10 μg/dl ( 109 ).

It is important to state that impact on the immune system, causing dysfunction and neuroinflammation ( 104 ), is related to poor air quality. Yet, increases in serum levels of immunoglobulins (IgA, IgM) and the complement component C3 are observed ( 106 ). Another issue is that antigen presentation is affected by air pollutants, as there is an upregulation of costimulatory molecules such as CD80 and CD86 on macrophages ( 110 ).

As is known, skin is our shield against ultraviolet radiation (UVR) and other pollutants, as it is the most exterior layer of our body. Traffic-related pollutants, such as PAHs, VOCs, oxides, and PM, may cause pigmented spots on our skin ( 111 ). On the one hand, as already stated, when pollutants penetrate through the skin or are inhaled, damage to the organs is observed, as some of these pollutants are mutagenic and carcinogenic, and, specifically, they affect the liver and lung. On the other hand, air pollutants (and those in the troposphere) reduce the adverse effects of ultraviolet radiation UVR in polluted urban areas ( 111 ). Air pollutants absorbed by the human skin may contribute to skin aging, psoriasis, acne, urticaria, eczema, and atopic dermatitis ( 111 ), usually caused by exposure to oxides and photochemical smoke ( 111 ). Exposure to PM and cigarette smoking act as skin-aging agents, causing spots, dyschromia, and wrinkles. Lastly, pollutants have been associated with skin cancer ( 111 ).

Higher morbidity is reported to fetuses and children when exposed to the above dangers. Impairment in fetal growth, low birth weight, and autism have been reported ( 112 ).

Another exterior organ that may be affected is the eye. Contamination usually comes from suspended pollutants and may result in asymptomatic eye outcomes, irritation ( 112 ), retinopathy, or dry eye syndrome ( 113 , 114 ).

Environmental Impact of Air Pollution

Air pollution is harming not only human health but also the environment ( 115 ) in which we live. The most important environmental effects are as follows.

Acid rain is wet (rain, fog, snow) or dry (particulates and gas) precipitation containing toxic amounts of nitric and sulfuric acids. They are able to acidify the water and soil environments, damage trees and plantations, and even damage buildings and outdoor sculptures, constructions, and statues.

Haze is produced when fine particles are dispersed in the air and reduce the transparency of the atmosphere. It is caused by gas emissions in the air coming from industrial facilities, power plants, automobiles, and trucks.

Ozone , as discussed previously, occurs both at ground level and in the upper level (stratosphere) of the Earth's atmosphere. Stratospheric ozone is protecting us from the Sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. In contrast, ground-level ozone is harmful to human health and is a pollutant. Unfortunately, stratospheric ozone is gradually damaged by ozone-depleting substances (i.e., chemicals, pesticides, and aerosols). If this protecting stratospheric ozone layer is thinned, then UV radiation can reach our Earth, with harmful effects for human life (skin cancer) ( 116 ) and crops ( 117 ). In plants, ozone penetrates through the stomata, inducing them to close, which blocks CO 2 transfer and induces a reduction in photosynthesis ( 118 ).

Global climate change is an important issue that concerns mankind. As is known, the “greenhouse effect” keeps the Earth's temperature stable. Unhappily, anthropogenic activities have destroyed this protecting temperature effect by producing large amounts of greenhouse gases, and global warming is mounting, with harmful effects on human health, animals, forests, wildlife, agriculture, and the water environment. A report states that global warming is adding to the health risks of poor people ( 119 ).

People living in poorly constructed buildings in warm-climate countries are at high risk for heat-related health problems as temperatures mount ( 119 ).

Wildlife is burdened by toxic pollutants coming from the air, soil, or the water ecosystem and, in this way, animals can develop health problems when exposed to high levels of pollutants. Reproductive failure and birth effects have been reported.

Eutrophication is occurring when elevated concentrations of nutrients (especially nitrogen) stimulate the blooming of aquatic algae, which can cause a disequilibration in the diversity of fish and their deaths.

Without a doubt, there is a critical concentration of pollution that an ecosystem can tolerate without being destroyed, which is associated with the ecosystem's capacity to neutralize acidity. The Canada Acid Rain Program established this load at 20 kg/ha/yr ( 120 ).

Hence, air pollution has deleterious effects on both soil and water ( 121 ). Concerning PM as an air pollutant, its impact on crop yield and food productivity has been reported. Its impact on watery bodies is associated with the survival of living organisms and fishes and their productivity potential ( 121 ).

An impairment in photosynthetic rhythm and metabolism is observed in plants exposed to the effects of ozone ( 121 ).

Sulfur and nitrogen oxides are involved in the formation of acid rain and are harmful to plants and marine organisms.

Last but not least, as mentioned above, the toxicity associated with lead and other metals is the main threat to our ecosystems (air, water, and soil) and living creatures ( 121 ).

In 2018, during the first WHO Global Conference on Air Pollution and Health, the WHO's General Director, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, called air pollution a “silent public health emergency” and “the new tobacco” ( 122 ).

Undoubtedly, children are particularly vulnerable to air pollution, especially during their development. Air pollution has adverse effects on our lives in many different respects.

Diseases associated with air pollution have not only an important economic impact but also a societal impact due to absences from productive work and school.

Despite the difficulty of eradicating the problem of anthropogenic environmental pollution, a successful solution could be envisaged as a tight collaboration of authorities, bodies, and doctors to regularize the situation. Governments should spread sufficient information and educate people and should involve professionals in these issues so as to control the emergence of the problem successfully.

Technologies to reduce air pollution at the source must be established and should be used in all industries and power plants. The Kyoto Protocol of 1997 set as a major target the reduction of GHG emissions to below 5% by 2012 ( 123 ). This was followed by the Copenhagen summit, 2009 ( 124 ), and then the Durban summit of 2011 ( 125 ), where it was decided to keep to the same line of action. The Kyoto protocol and the subsequent ones were ratified by many countries. Among the pioneers who adopted this important protocol for the world's environmental and climate “health” was China ( 3 ). As is known, China is a fast-developing economy and its GDP (Gross Domestic Product) is expected to be very high by 2050, which is defined as the year of dissolution of the protocol for the decrease in gas emissions.

A more recent international agreement of crucial importance for climate change is the Paris Agreement of 2015, issued by the UNFCCC (United Nations Climate Change Committee). This latest agreement was ratified by a plethora of UN (United Nations) countries as well as the countries of the European Union ( 126 ). In this vein, parties should promote actions and measures to enhance numerous aspects around the subject. Boosting education, training, public awareness, and public participation are some of the relevant actions for maximizing the opportunities to achieve the targets and goals on the crucial matter of climate change and environmental pollution ( 126 ). Without any doubt, technological improvements makes our world easier and it seems difficult to reduce the harmful impact caused by gas emissions, we could limit its use by seeking reliable approaches.

Synopsizing, a global prevention policy should be designed in order to combat anthropogenic air pollution as a complement to the correct handling of the adverse health effects associated with air pollution. Sustainable development practices should be applied, together with information coming from research in order to handle the problem effectively.

At this point, international cooperation in terms of research, development, administration policy, monitoring, and politics is vital for effective pollution control. Legislation concerning air pollution must be aligned and updated, and policy makers should propose the design of a powerful tool of environmental and health protection. As a result, the main proposal of this essay is that we should focus on fostering local structures to promote experience and practice and extrapolate these to the international level through developing effective policies for sustainable management of ecosystems.

Author Contributions

All authors listed have made a substantial, direct and intellectual contribution to the work, and approved it for publication.

Conflict of Interest

IM is employed by the company Delphis S.A.

The remaining authors declare that the present review paper was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.

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121. Zuhara S, Isaifan R. The impact of criteria air pollutants on soil and water: a review. (2018) 278–84. doi: 10.30799/jespr.133.18040205

122. WHO. First WHO Global Conference on Air Pollution and Health. (2018). Available online at: https://www.who.int/airpollution/events/conference/en/ (accessed October 6, 2019).

123. What is the Kyoto Protocol? UNFCCC . Available online at: https://unfccc.int/kyoto__protocol (accessed October 6, 2019).

124. CopenhagenClimate Change Conference (UNFCCC) . Available online at: https://unfccc.int/process-and-meetings/conferences/past-conferences/copenhagen-climate-change-conference-december-2009/copenhagen-climate-change-conference-december-2009 (accessed October 6, 2019).

125. Durban Climate Change Conference,. UNFCCC (2011). Available online at: https://unfccc.int/process-and-meetings/conferences/past-conferences/copenhagen-climate-change-conference-december-2009/copenhagen-climate-change-conference-december-2009 (accessed October 6, 2019).

126. Paris Climate Change Agreement,. (2016). Available online at: https://unfccc.int/process-and-meetings/the-paris-agreement/the-paris-agreement

Keywords: air pollution, environment, health, public health, gas emission, policy

Citation: Manisalidis I, Stavropoulou E, Stavropoulos A and Bezirtzoglou E (2020) Environmental and Health Impacts of Air Pollution: A Review. Front. Public Health 8:14. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2020.00014

Received: 17 October 2019; Accepted: 17 January 2020; Published: 20 February 2020.

Reviewed by:

Copyright © 2020 Manisalidis, Stavropoulou, Stavropoulos and Bezirtzoglou. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY) . The use, distribution or reproduction in other forums is permitted, provided the original author(s) and the copyright owner(s) are credited and that the original publication in this journal is cited, in accordance with accepted academic practice. No use, distribution or reproduction is permitted which does not comply with these terms.

*Correspondence: Ioannis Manisalidis, giannismanisal@gmail.com ; Elisavet Stavropoulou, elisabeth.stavropoulou@gmail.com

† These authors have contributed equally to this work

Disclaimer: All claims expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of their affiliated organizations, or those of the publisher, the editors and the reviewers. Any product that may be evaluated in this article or claim that may be made by its manufacturer is not guaranteed or endorsed by the publisher.

Essay on Pollution In English For Students

Essay on Pollution for Students: Explore Essay on pollution in varying lengths, including 100, 150, 200, 600, and 800 words.

November 19, 2023

Table of Contents

Essay on Pollution: Pollution is a big problem that happens when harmful things get into the air, water, and land around us. It can be from factories, cars, or even how we throw away our trash. Pollution is not good because it can make people and animals sick and can even change the weather. It’s not just a problem in one place – it’s everywhere, and it affects the whole world. In this essay, we’re going to talk about the different kinds of pollution, where it comes from, and why we all need to work together to make things better for our planet.

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Short Essay on Pollution

Below, we present concise and comprehensive essays on pollution in English to enhance your understanding. Upon reviewing these essays, you will gain insights into the definition of pollution, its primary causes, methods for prevention, and more. These resources can prove valuable for your academic assignments, such as essay writing, speech delivery, or paragraph composition in school or college.

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Essay on Pollution in 100 Words

Pollution happens when harmful stuff gets into nature and makes things bad. There are different kinds of pollution like dirty air, dirty water, dirty soil, too much noise, and too much light. The sources of pollution are diverse, ranging from industrial activities to household waste. Pollution has severe consequences on ecosystems, human health, and the overall well-being of our planet. Addressing pollution is a collective responsibility that requires global awareness and sustainable practices. Governments play a crucial role in enforcing regulations, promoting renewable energy sources, and raising awareness about the importance of environmental conservation.

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Essay on Pollution in 150 Words

Pollution is a pressing environmental issue affecting our planet. It occurs when harmful substances contaminate the air, water, or soil. The primary sources of pollution include industrial activities, vehicle emissions, improper waste disposal, and deforestation. Air pollution, caused by the release of pollutants into the atmosphere, leads to respiratory problems and climate change. Water pollution, resulting from the discharge of chemicals and waste into water bodies, poses a threat to aquatic life and human health.

Soil pollution occurs when pollutants, such as pesticides and industrial waste, degrade the quality of soil, impacting plant growth and food safety. Noise pollution, caused by excessive noise from various sources, can lead to stress and hearing loss. Light pollution disrupts natural ecosystems and affects wildlife behavior. To address pollution, individuals must adopt sustainable practices, industries must implement cleaner technologies, and governments must enforce stringent environmental regulations.

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Essay on Pollution in 200 Words

Pollution is a global challenge that poses a threat to the health of our planet and its inhabitants. It manifests in various forms, including air, water, soil, noise, and light pollution. The consequences of pollution are far-reaching, affecting ecosystems, biodiversity, and human well-being. Industrial activities, urbanization, and improper waste management contribute significantly to pollution.

Air pollution, caused by the release of pollutants into the atmosphere, leads to respiratory diseases, climate change, and environmental degradation. Water pollution results from the discharge of chemicals, sewage, and industrial waste into rivers, lakes, and oceans, harming aquatic life and contaminating drinking water sources. Soil pollution occurs when pollutants like pesticides and heavy metals degrade the quality of soil, affecting plant growth and food safety.

Noise pollution, generated by traffic, industrial machinery, and other human activities, can have adverse effects on human health, causing stress, sleep disturbances, and hearing loss. Light pollution, caused by excessive artificial light in urban areas, disrupts natural ecosystems and interferes with the behavior of nocturnal animals.

Addressing pollution requires collective efforts at individual, community, and governmental levels. Individuals can contribute by adopting eco-friendly practices, reducing waste, and using sustainable modes of transportation. Industries must invest in cleaner technologies and adhere to strict environmental standards. 

Long Essay on Pollution 

Pollution is a complex and multifaceted environmental issue that poses a significant threat to the sustainability of our planet. It is the introduction of contaminants into the natural environment, resulting in adverse changes that affect ecosystems, biodiversity, and human health. Pollution can take various forms, including air pollution, water pollution, soil pollution, noise pollution, and light pollution, each with its unique set of challenges and consequences.

Sources of Pollution

The sources of pollution are diverse and often interconnected. Industrial activities, urbanization, transportation, agriculture, and improper waste management contribute significantly to the release of pollutants into the environment. Industrial processes emit a variety of pollutants, including greenhouse gases, particulate matter, and toxic chemicals, which can have detrimental effects on air quality and contribute to climate change.

Vehicle emissions, stemming from the burning of fossil fuels, release pollutants such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter into the atmosphere, contributing to air pollution and respiratory diseases. Improper disposal of waste, both solid and liquid, contaminates water bodies and soil, posing threats to aquatic life, plant health, and food safety.

Agricultural practices, including the use of pesticides and fertilizers, contribute to soil and water pollution, affecting both the environment and human health. Deforestation and urbanization disrupt natural ecosystems, leading to habitat loss and the displacement of wildlife. Noise pollution, resulting from human activities such as traffic, construction, and industrial processes, can have adverse effects on human health, causing stress, sleep disturbances, and hearing loss.

Consequences of Pollution

The consequences of pollution are severe and far-reaching. Air pollution is a major contributor to respiratory diseases, including asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Long-term exposure to air pollutants such as particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide has been linked to cardiovascular diseases and adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Water pollution poses threats to aquatic life and human health. Contaminated water sources can lead to the spread of waterborne diseases, affecting millions of people globally. Soil pollution affects plant growth and food safety, as pollutants like pesticides and heavy metals accumulate in the soil and enter the food chain.

Noise pollution can have physiological and psychological effects, causing stress, sleep disturbances, and an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. Light pollution disrupts natural ecosystems and interferes with the behavior of nocturnal animals, affecting their reproductive patterns and migration.

Global Impact

Pollution is not confined to local or regional boundaries; it has a global impact. Greenhouse gas emissions, primarily from the burning of fossil fuels, contribute to global warming and climate change. The rise in global temperatures leads to melting ice caps, rising sea levels, and extreme weather events, posing threats to unsafe ecosystems and communities.

The pollution of oceans with plastic waste has become a global crisis, with millions of tons of plastic entering the oceans annually. This not only harms marine life but also affects human health, as microplastics enter the food chain through seafood consumption.

Loss of biodiversity is another consequence of pollution, as ecosystems are disrupted and species face habitat destruction and pollution-induced stress. The decline of pollinators, such as bees, due to exposure to pesticides, has implications for agriculture and food security.

Addressing Pollution

Addressing pollution requires a comprehensive and collaborative approach at individual, community, and governmental levels. Individuals can contribute by adopting sustainable practices in their daily lives, such as reducing energy consumption, using eco-friendly products, and practicing responsible waste disposal.

Communities can organize clean-up initiatives, promote recycling programs, and raise awareness about the importance of environmental conservation. Educational institutions play a crucial role in fostering environmental awareness and sustainability practices among students.

Governments must enact and enforce stringent environmental regulations to curb pollution. Incentives for industries to adopt cleaner technologies, invest in renewable energy sources, and implement sustainable waste management practices are essential. International cooperation is crucial to address global environmental challenges, with countries working together to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, combat plastic pollution, and protect biodiversity.

Essay on Pollution in 800 Words

Pollution, the presence of unwanted substances known as pollutants in the environment, poses an immediate and severe threat to the delicate balance of our ecosystems. The recognition of the urgent need to address pollution is essential if we are to preserve the Earth and its biodiversity. This essay explores the various facets of pollution, its types, and the impact it has on major Indian cities such as Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, Lucknow, and Varanasi.

What is Pollution?

Pollution occurs when external compounds, primarily generated by human activities, enter the environment as unwanted entities known as pollutants. These pollutants cause significant harm to the environment, affecting water bodies, air, flora, and fauna. The consequences of pollution extend globally, contributing to phenomena like the greenhouse gas effect, global warming, and acid rain.

Effects of Pollution on Major Indian Cities

Imagine bustling cities in India, like Delhi or Varanasi, filled with life and energy. However, there’s a problem casting a shadow over this vibrancy – pollution. In this exploration, we’re going to look at how pollution affects the air, water, and soil in cities such as Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, Lucknow, and Varanasi. The goal is to understand the challenges these cities face and why it’s so important for everyone to work together to tackle pollution and ensure a healthier future.

Pollution Level in Delhi

Delhi, the National Capital Territory, faces a dire situation in terms of air quality index (AQI). According to the World Health Organization, Delhi ranks lowest among 1650 major cities worldwide. The air quality, especially during the winter months from October to December, rapidly deteriorates, reaching hazardous levels.

The AQI for Delhi remains moderate (101-200) from January to September but spikes during winter, often surpassing 500. Particulate Matter (PM2.5 and PM10) levels soar well beyond safe limits, primarily due to factors such as vehicular emissions, industrial activities, and the traditional practice of burning paddy crop roots in neighboring states.

Pollution Level in Noida

Noida, bordering Delhi in western Uttar Pradesh, faces similar challenges with poor air quality. Intensive construction activities, heavy vehicular pollution, and cold winter air contribute to the formation of a thick smog, impacting the Air Quality Index. The PM levels in Noida compete with Delhi, often reaching hazardous levels during the winter months.

Pollution Level in Ghaziabad

Ghaziabad frequently tops the list of North Indian cities with the worst AQI and pollution levels. Industrial pollution and waste burning are major contributors to Ghaziabad’s poor air quality. Located on the outskirts of the city, industries emit dense smoke, exacerbating pollution. The PM10 levels in Ghaziabad often surpass permissible limits, reaching alarming levels, especially during festivals like Diwali.

Pollution Level in Lucknow

Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, experiences fluctuating AQI levels, ranging from moderate to poor. While not as severe as Delhi NCR, the air quality in Lucknow is still alarming, demanding concrete action. The quantity of suspended Particulate Matter has increased significantly in residential areas, posing health risks. The city’s air contains fine PM2.5 particles, reaching hazardous concentrations.

Pollution Level in Varanasi

Varanasi, the ancient pilgrimage city and the parliamentary constituency of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, faces environmental challenges due to ongoing construction activities. Varanasi’s AQI is ranked third on the World Health Organization’s list of the fifteen most polluted cities globally. The ongoing construction work contributes to a decline in air quality, with AQI reaching up to 300, falling in the “Poor” category. Particulate Matter, especially PM2.5, poses health risks to the city’s residents.

The impacts of pollution are profound, impacting ecosystems, biodiversity, and the well-being of humans. Prolonged exposure to air pollutants is associated with cardiovascular diseases, while contaminated water sources contribute to the spread of waterborne diseases. Soil pollution poses risks to food safety, and noise pollution leads to stress and hearing loss. Additionally, light pollution disrupts wildlife behavior.

Importantly, pollution transcends local boundaries; its consequences are felt globally. Greenhouse gas emissions contribute significantly to global warming, causing adverse effects on climate patterns. The accumulation of plastic waste in oceans not only harms marine life but also infiltrates the food chain, posing threats to human health. Furthermore, pollution-induced stress and habitat destruction contribute to the loss of biodiversity, impacting ecosystems on a global scale.

Stringent environmental regulations need to be implemented and enforced by governments to combat pollution effectively. Offering incentives to industries for adopting cleaner technologies, investing in renewable energy sources, and practicing sustainable waste management is vital. International cooperation is essential to tackle global environmental challenges, with countries collaborating to decrease greenhouse gas emissions, combat plastic pollution, and safeguard biodiversity.

Pollution remains a pressing issue affecting major Indian cities, with severe implications for the environment and public health. The need for immediate and concerted efforts to address pollution is evident, as evidenced by the deteriorating air quality in cities like Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, Lucknow, and Varanasi. It is imperative that governments, industries, and individuals collaborate to adopt sustainable practices, enforce regulations, and invest in technologies that mitigate the environmental impact. Only through collective action can we hope to mitigate the menace of pollution and ensure a healthier and sustainable future for our planet.

Pollution is a critical environmental issue that demands urgent attention and concerted efforts at local, national, and global levels. The consequences of pollution are profound, affecting ecosystems, biodiversity, and human health. It is imperative that individuals, communities, industries, and governments work together to adopt sustainable practices, enforce regulations, and invest in technologies that minimize the environmental impact.

The battle against pollution requires a shift in mindset, where environmental sustainability becomes a priority in decision-making processes. By addressing pollution, we not only protect the health of our planet but also ensure a better quality of life for current and future generations. It is a collective responsibility to preserve the beauty and diversity of our natural environment and create a sustainable and harmonious coexistence between human activities and the ecosystems that support life on Earth.

Essay on Pollution FAQs

Pollution is the introduction of contaminants into the natural environment, leading to adverse changes. It can take various forms, including air, water, soil, noise, and light pollution.

Primary sources of pollution include industrial activities, vehicle emissions, improper waste disposal, deforestation, and agricultural practices that involve the use of pesticides and fertilizers.

Pollution has severe consequences on ecosystems, biodiversity, and human health. It can lead to respiratory diseases, waterborne illnesses, soil degradation, habitat loss, and disruptions in wildlife behavior.

Air pollution can cause respiratory diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Long-term exposure to air pollutants is linked to cardiovascular diseases and adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Water pollution occurs when chemicals and waste are discharged into water bodies. It poses a threat to aquatic life by contaminating their habitats and disrupting ecosystems. It can also affect human health through the consumption of contaminated water.

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Essay on Air Pollution in English 100, 200, 300, And 500 Words

Essay on air pollution in English: Dive into a world where the air we breathe is not as pure as it seems. India, our beloved land, faces a hidden adversary: air pollution. This invisible foe affects millions, altering our health and environment. Through understanding its causes and impacts, we can unite to combat it. Join us on this enlightening journey, and let’s clear the air together.

In this article, we have provided 100, 200, 300, and 500-word air pollution essays.

Essay on Air Pollution in 100 Words

Imagine a world where the sky is no longer blue. Air pollution is turning our skies grey. It’s a problem we all face, affecting our health and planet.

Air pollution comes from many sources like cars, factories, and even our homes. Tiny particles and gases mix with the air, making it dirty. This dirty air can make us sick, causing problems like asthma and heart disease. Animals and plants suffer too, with their habitats becoming polluted. Clean air is essential for all living things on Earth to thrive and stay healthy.

Air pollution is a serious issue. It’s up to us to make changes. Together, we can clean the air for a brighter, healthier tomorrow.

Essay on Air Pollution in 200 Words

Imagine waking up to a gray sky, where the air is thick with smog. This is not a scene from a dystopian novel but the reality of air pollution in many cities today. Air pollution poses a grave threat to our health and the environment, making it an issue that cannot be ignored.

Air pollution consists of harmful substances released into the air, primarily by human activities. These include gases like carbon dioxide, which contributes to global warming, and particulate matter, which can penetrate our lungs, causing respiratory issues. Vehicles, industries, and even agricultural practices contribute to this menace. The effects are alarming, leading to health problems such as asthma, heart disease, and even premature death. Moreover, air pollution damages ecosystems, affecting water quality and wildlife. It also impacts climate patterns globally, leading to unpredictable weather. The visibility of landmarks and the beauty of our cities are marred by the haze of pollutants, affecting tourism and daily life.

The air we breathe is turning into a poison. It’s high time we take concerted action to tackle this issue. Reducing pollution requires collective effort and significant changes in our lifestyle and policies.

Essay on Air Pollution in 300 Words

Air pollution, a dire environmental crisis, is not a distant threat but a current global challenge. It indiscriminately affects every corner of the globe, from the most bustling urban cities to the most serene rural countryside. Understanding and confronting this menace is an urgent necessity. We must act swiftly to mitigate its impact.

Air pollution comprises various harmful substances released into our atmosphere. Numerous sources contribute to this pervasive issue, including industrial factories, vehicles on our roads, agricultural activities, and widespread deforestation. These pollutants, often invisible to the naked eye, deceive us into believing the air we breathe is clean. In reality, they pose severe health risks to humans and animals alike. Conditions such as respiratory infections, heart disease, and even premature death have been directly linked to air pollution exposure. Vulnerable populations, particularly children and the elderly, are disproportionately affected. Beyond human health, wildlife and natural ecosystems also suffer significant harm, disrupting the delicate balance of our natural world.

Pollution knows no borders, spreading its toxic reach across countries and continents, underscoring the need for a unified global response. In areas heavily burdened by pollution, clean air has become a rare, luxury commodity. Initiatives to curb emissions and reduce pollution are in motion, but the scale of action remains insufficient. Transitioning to renewable energy sources, enforcing stricter environmental regulations, and promoting sustainable practices are critical steps forward. Everyone, from governments to individuals, holds a stake in this fight against air pollution. By making informed choices and small changes in our daily lives, we can contribute to a larger, positive impact.

Confronting air pollution is an immense challenge, yet it is not beyond our collective capability to overcome it. By fostering awareness, encouraging proactive action, and facilitating global cooperation, we can pave the way toward a cleaner, healthier future. The air we breathe is fundamental to life; safeguarding its purity is a responsibility we all share.

Essay on Air Pollution in 500 Words

Imagine a world where every breath you take is a challenge. This is not a scene from a dystopian movie but a harsh reality in many parts of our planet due to air pollution. Air, a vital element for all living beings, is becoming a cocktail of poisonous gases. The sky, once clear and blue, now often wears a blanket of smog. This situation is alarming and demands our immediate attention.

Air pollution happens when harmful substances mix with the air we breathe. This can include gases like carbon dioxide from cars and factories, smoke from burning trash, and tiny particles from construction sites. Even natural events like forest fires or volcanic eruptions can add to air pollution. These pollutants can harm our health, making it hard to breathe, and hurt the environment by harming plants and animals. Everyone needs to help reduce air pollution by using less energy.

Air pollution has several harmful effects on both our health and the environment. Firstly, it can cause respiratory problems like asthma and bronchitis, as it makes the air we breathe dirty with chemicals and particles. Secondly, it can lead to heart disease because pollutants can enter our bloodstream through the lungs. Thirdly, air pollution affects wildlife and plants, making it hard for them to survive in their natural habitats. It also contributes to climate change by increasing the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, leading to global warming. Lastly, it can cause acid rain, which harms trees, soils, and water bodies

Types of air pollution:

• 1. Particulate Matter (PM): Tiny particles or droplets in the air, like dust, soot, and smoke. They can harm our lungs and heart.
• 2. Nitrogen Oxides (NOx): Gases that come mostly from car exhausts and power plants. They can make the air hazy and form smog.
• 3. Sulfur Dioxide (SO2): A gas from burning fossil fuels like coal. It can cause acid rain, which harms plants, animals, and buildings.
• 4. Carbon Monoxide (CO): A colorless, odorless gas from burning things like wood and gasoline. It’s harmful because it can block oxygen from getting into our bodies.
• 5. Ozone (O3): A gas that’s good high up in the atmosphere but harmful at ground level, causing smog and respiratory problems.
• 6. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Chemicals from paints, cleaners, and gasoline. They can cause smog and health issues.

Air Pollution Reduction Steps:

Plant More Trees: Trees absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen. Planting more trees helps clean the air.

• Use Public Transport: Cars produce a lot of pollution. Using buses, trains, or carpooling reduces the number of vehicles on the road.
• Recycle and Reuse: Producing new things causes pollution. By recycling and reusing, we reduce waste and pollution.
• Save Energy: Turn off lights and electronics when not in use. Using less energy reduces pollution from power plants.
• Educate Others: Share what you know about air pollution and its solutions with friends and family to spread awareness.

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Air pollution is a daunting challenge, but it is not insurmountable. Awareness and action can lead us to a cleaner, healthier future. Together, we can clear the air.

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Environmental Impacts of Air Pollution Essay

• To find inspiration for your paper and overcome writer’s block
• As a source of information (ensure proper referencing)
• As a template for you assignment

The heightening issue of air pollution has brought many impacts on the environment. Almost every aspect of human life depends on the environment, and for that reason, any harm caused to the environment can trigger many ramifications throughout the range of normal human activities. Indeed, one of the ultimate trade offs here can be observed from environment matters and unemployment issues.

Although it is important for countries to take environmental requirements as a priority, it is obviously clear that employment matters come first in many regions. According to a recent report by the Environmental Protection Agency, unemployment consequences associated with environmental issues are minimal compared with the overall rate of unemployment.

It is also clear that there is a direct connection between inflation and the environment as humans continue to elude environmental-related matters due to high rates of unemployment. As it would be observed, there has been increased attention by the government to save jobs for the people, while neglecting quality environmental standards.

Delays on the plans to establish and implement effective automobile emission standards have constantly been delayed in an attempt to give the automobile sector enough time to come up with effective solutions to the overwhelming issue of chemicals and substance emission (Edmunds, 1977).

Over the years, incremental costs for both government and industry have been realized in the control of heightening effects of air pollution. Direct impacts of air pollution on environment have also contributed to immense health effects upon the global populations. Various studies have linked particulates and pollutants to various health conditions and higher mortality rates.

For instance, synthetic chemicals and other substances emitted into the atmosphere as waste products are said to be the major cause of various cancers affecting humans today. The long-term supply of energy, minerals and land has seriously influenced the future of the American people as far as environmental impacts of air pollution are concerned. As a matter of fact, high levels of energy are required to sustain the bulging U.S. economy.

The current high growth rates have contributed to high concentration of particulates and pollutants in the atmosphere owing to the population’s over reliance on various sources of energy.

The same applies to the aspect of land use in the U.S., which has shifted to higher density in housing as a result of the higher growth rates that are observable today. These high-density developments around the urban centers are likely to change the way Americans live, most likely taking them backwards instead of placing them ahead of others (Edmunds, 1977).

Despite being among the more resource-rich countries globally, America lacks sufficient commodity reserves in terms of minerals to cater for its cumulative demands. In that case, a number of key commodities and resources from across the border would be needed to sustain the country’s economic growth. This high demand of minerals has reminded the Americans of the value of recycling their inadequate materials.

Even though this will greatly alter industry usage habits, it is also likely to generate increased costs. It is obviously clear that our lifestyles and living habits in all aspects of life are rapidly changing.

This certainly comes as a result of great confusion on what to choose between the basic essentials of life and the quality of our environment. There is a high demand for basic materials and resources for economical use yet there is limited supply of such expectations in the U.S. and other Western countries.

This, however, has led to increased prices for commodities and substances in these countries. In this regard, it would be important for any plans aimed at conserving energy and minimizing pollution to be prioritized. This will play an effective role in making the U.S. self-sufficiency in matters regarding resources and key commodities.

Edmunds, S. (1977). Environmental impacts: Conflicts and Trade offs. California Management Review, 19 (3), 5-9.

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Essay on Environmental Pollution for Students - 100, 200 and 500 Words

Pollution is the presence and inclusion of unwanted items in the environment. The state of the environment is altered when it has become contaminated with potentially dangerous compounds as a result of human activity. Water, air, and land are dangerously affected by the pollution. Here are a few sample essays on environmental pollution:

100 Words Essay on Environmental Pollution

200 words essay on environmental pollution, 500 words essay on environmental pollution.

When it comes to protecting the environment, awareness is the key. As more and more people become aware of the causes, types, and impacts of environmental pollution, they are more likely to take steps to prevent it. Air pollution is created as a result of burning fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, and natural gas. Water pollution results from industrial activities, such as the dumping of chemicals into rivers and lakes, as well as from agricultural runoff. Land pollution is caused by the misuse of land and improper disposal of waste. The causes of environmental pollution are numerous and varied. Some of the main culprits are industrial activities, burning of fossil fuels, use of pesticides, and deforestation.

Awareness and taking necessary resolving steps is essential when it comes to protecting the environment from the impacts of environmental pollution. By teaching people the importance of taking steps to prevent environmental pollution, we can ensure a brighter future for our planet. We must understand the causes of environmental pollution, the types of pollution, the impact it has on the environment, and how we can prevent it.

Causes | Environmental pollution is the contamination of the environment through the emissions of pollutants including harmful gases, chemicals, and particulate matter. It is caused by human activities such as the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial pollution. These activities have caused global warming, acid rain, and water and air pollution, leading to global environmental degradation.

Types | There are different types of environmental pollution. The most common type is air pollution, which is caused by the burning of fuels and other industrial activities. Water pollution is another common type of pollution that is caused by sewage and industrial waste. Soil pollution is caused by overuse of pesticides and other chemicals. Noise pollution is caused by traffic, construction activities, and industrial noise. Light pollution is caused by the emission of artificial light.

Impact | The impact of environmental pollution is far-reaching and devastating. Air pollution can lead to respiratory diseases, while water pollution can contaminate drinking water and cause health issues. Land pollution causes a reduction in soil fertility and even destruction of natural habitats for animals. In addition, it can lead to the destruction of ecosystems, which in turn leads to a decrease in biodiversity.

Environmental pollution has serious impacts on both humans and the environment. It affects air quality, water quality, soil fertility, and public health. Poor air quality affects the respiratory system, leading to respiratory illnesses like asthma and bronchitis. Water pollution can lead to the spread of diseases like cholera, typhoid, and dysentery. Soil pollution can reduce crop yields, leading to food insecurity.

Types of Environmental Pollution

Air | Air pollution is the introduction of dangerous compounds into the atmosphere, which has a negative influence on the environment and humanity. Air pollution simply makes the air impure or contaminated. It happens when noxious gases, scents, dust, or fumes are discharged into the air in concentrations that endanger human and animal comfort or health or even kill plant life.

Water | The act of contaminating water bodies, such as rivers, oceans, lakes, streams, aquifers, and groundwater, is known as water pollution. It happens when foreign, dangerous substances—such as chemicals, garbage, or polluted materials are released into bodies of water, either directly or indirectly.

Land | When the quality of the earth's land surfaces in terms of use, landscape, and capacity to support life forms is compromised or destroyed, this is referred to as land pollution. It is frequently brought on by human activity and the misuse of land resources, both directly and indirectly.

Soil | Chemical pollutants can pollute soil or cause it to degrade through activities like mining, clearing vegetation, or topsoil erosion. Typically, it occurs when human activities bring harmful chemicals, substances, or items into the soil.

Noise | Noise pollution is an unpleasant sound or a sound that causes excruciating ear pain. Noise pollution is described as unpleasant and unwanted sound levels that cause significant distress to all living beings. It is measured in decibels (dB).

Factors Responsible For Environmental Pollution

Environmental pollution has a variety of causes. One of the most prominent is the burning of fossil fuels, such as coal, oil and gas by power plants, factories and automobiles. This produces large amounts of carbon dioxide, which is a major contributor to global climate change. Other sources of environmental pollution include agricultural practices, such as over-fertilization and the use of pesticides, and industrial processes, such as mining, manufacturing and waste disposal.

What Can We Do

To prevent environmental pollution, we must reduce the emissions of various pollutants. We can do this by switching to renewable sources of energy like solar, wind, and hydroelectric power. We should reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and use more efficient transportation methods. We should also reduce the emissions of harmful industrial chemicals and practise sustainable agriculture. Additionally, we should increase public awareness of environmental pollution and its impacts, and promote eco-friendly lifestyles.

By understanding the causes and effects of environmental pollution, we can work towards preventing it and ensuring a cleaner, healthier environment for all. Awareness and knowledge are essential in this regard, as it helps us to become more conscious and informed citizens. It helps us understand the importance of protecting and preserving the environment and makes us more responsible citizens.

The world is facing an ever-growing threat from pollution, which if left unchecked will have catastrophic consequences. Education and taking a conscious action plan can play a key role in helping to reduce environmental pollution.

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Essay On Environmental Pollution

Table of Contents

Short Essay On Environmental Pollution

Environmental pollution refers to the introduction of harmful substances or products into the environment. It is a major problem in today’s world and has a profound impact on both the natural world and human lives.

The sources of environmental pollution are numerous and varied, including industrial activities, transportation, and household waste. One of the most significant contributors to environmental pollution is the burning of fossil fuels, which releases toxic chemicals and greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. This not only contributes to air pollution, but it also has a significant impact on climate change, causing rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and melting of polar ice caps.

Another major source of environmental pollution is the disposal of hazardous waste. This includes chemicals, batteries, and electronic waste, which contain toxic substances that can contaminate soil and groundwater, leading to serious health problems for both humans and wildlife.

The effects of environmental pollution are far-reaching and often devastating. It can cause serious health problems for humans, including respiratory problems, heart disease, and cancer. Additionally, environmental pollution can have a significant impact on wildlife, causing a decline in biodiversity and threatening species with extinction.

To address environmental pollution, it is essential that we take a multi-faceted approach, addressing both the causes and consequences of pollution. This may involve reducing the use of fossil fuels and implementing clean energy technologies, as well as improving waste management and increasing public awareness about the impact of pollution.

In conclusion, environmental pollution is a serious problem that has a profound impact on both the natural world and human lives. To address this problem, it is essential that we take a comprehensive approach, addressing the causes and consequences of pollution and working to reduce its impact on the environment. By taking action now, we can protect the future of our planet and ensure a healthy and sustainable future for generations to come.

Long Essay On Environmental Pollution

Environmental pollution is one of the biggest threats to our planet today. It affects both the environment and human health, and it’s becoming more and more pervasive in our daily lives. In this essay, we’ll explore what environmental pollution is, how it affects us, and what the most effective solutions are to reduce its impact on people and the planet.

Introduction

There are many different types of environmental pollution. Some of the most common include air pollution, water pollution, and soil contamination. Each type of pollution has different causes and effects. Air pollution is typically caused by emissions from factories and automobiles. These emissions can contain harmful chemicals that can cause respiratory problems, heart disease, and cancer. Water pollution is often caused by sewage or agricultural runoff. This pollution can contaminate drinking water supplies and make people sick. Soil contamination can be caused by hazardous waste disposal or mining operations. This contamination can make crops unsafe to eat and cause health problems in people who come into contact with it.

Causes of Environmental Pollution

There are many causes of environmental pollution. The most common cause is the release of harmful chemicals into the environment. These chemicals can come from factories, power plants, cars, and other sources. They can pollute the air, water, and soil. They can also cause health problems for people and animals.

Other causes of environmental pollution include sewage, agricultural runoff, and mining. Sewage can contain harmful bacteria and viruses that can pollute water supplies. Agricultural runoff can contain pesticides and fertilizers that can pollute rivers and lakes. Mining can release harmful metals and minerals into the environment.

Types of Pollutants and Their Impact on the Environment

There are many different types of pollutants that can have an adverse impact on the environment. Some of the most common pollutants include:

• Air pollution – This is one of the most visible forms of pollution and can cause a range of health problems, including respiratory illnesses.

• Water pollution – This can lead to contamination of drinking water supplies and also harm marine life.

• Soil pollution – This can contaminate crops and lead to soil erosion.

• Light pollution – This can disrupt the natural circadian rhythms of animals and cause light-sensitive species to suffer.

All of these pollutants can have a serious impact on the environment, both in terms of the immediate damage they cause and also the long-term effects. It is therefore important to be aware of the different types of pollutants and their potential impacts.

Effects Of Environmental Pollution

There are many effects of environmental pollution. Some of the most common include air pollution, water pollution, and soil contamination.

Air pollution is one of the most harmful forms of environmental pollution. It is a major contributor to respiratory problems, heart disease, and cancer. Air pollution is also a leading cause of climate change.

Water pollution is another major problem caused by environmental pollution. It can contaminate drinking water supplies, damage aquatic ecosystems, and make recreation in waterways unsafe.

Soil contamination can occur when pollutants such as chemicals or oil spills enter the ground. This can make crops difficult to grow and can contaminate food supplies. Soil contamination can also cause health problems if people come into contact with contaminated soil or eat contaminated food.

Prevention and Control Measures

There are a number of things that individuals can do to help prevent and reduce environmental pollution. One of the most important things is to educate yourself and others about the issue and its causes. This can help raise awareness and create a demand for change. Another key prevention measure is to support businesses and industries that are working to reduce their pollution output. This includes voting with your wallet by patronizing companies that have green policies in place, and investing in cleaner energy sources. Finally, you can take action in your own life to reduce your impact on the environment. This includes conserving energy, recycling, driving less, and composting.

In conclusion, environmental pollution has become a major global concern and it is important for us to take proactive steps to reduce the amount of pollutants that are entering our environment. We can start by reducing our consumption of single-use products, switching to renewable energy sources such as solar or wind power, and engaging in conscientious recycling habits. By taking these actions we can help protect our planet from further harm caused by environmental pollution.

Manisha Dubey Jha is a skilled educational content writer with 5 years of experience. Specializing in essays and paragraphs, she’s dedicated to crafting engaging and informative content that enriches learning experiences.

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Essay on Pollution: Samples in 100, 150 and 200 Words

• Updated on  
• Jun 20, 2024

As the world embraced urbanization, mother nature witnessed the greener lands getting transformed into modern cities and metropolises. What followed is a trail of natural disasters signalling that something is wrong with the planet Earth. Pollution is increasingly asked under the writing section in school and college tests as well as competitive exams . This is because it is a relevant environmental issue today. This blog aims to help you with the necessary knowledge as well as tips and tricks to draft a well-written essay on pollution.

This Blog Includes:

What is pollution, types of pollution, causes and health effects of pollution, sample essay on pollution in 100 words, sample essay on pollution in 250-300 words, sample essay on pollution in 300-350 words, short essay on pollution in english.

Pollution is the introduction of harmful materials into the environment. These materials are called pollutants. They can be created by human activity like trash and nature like volcanic ash. Pollutants damage the quality of water, air and land. Pollution is a global problem. Air and water carry pollution into the ocean currents and migrating fish. Pollution is among the many things that harm our planet- once greener and healthier than it is now. Pollution is a dangerous phenomenon that is contributing to an array of health issues.

Also Read: Essay on Yoga Day

Also Read: Speech on Yoga Day

In simple terms, pollution is defined as the contamination of the physical and biological constituents in the earth’s atmosphere. It affects human life and the natural environment to a very great extent. It degrades our natural resources, from the water we drink to the air we breathe. While writing an essay on Pollution, you must mention the major four types of pollution which are as follows:

• Air Pollution : Air pollution is the contamination of air in the atmosphere when harmful or excessive quantities of substances such as smoke and harmful gases from industries, CFCs and oxides produced by automobiles, the burning of solid wastes, etc. are introduced into the environment.
• Water Pollution : This refers to the contamination of natural resources of water, due to the addition of harmful chemical, biological or physical materials, which includes industrial wastes, oil spills, domestic and farm wastes, pesticides, as well as mining and agricultural wastes, to water resource which make it unusable.
• Soil Pollution : Land/Soil Pollution occurs due to the degradation of the earth’s surface by different commercial, industrial, agricultural and domestic activities. Causes of soil pollution also include mining, deforestation, dumping of e-waste and other industrial wastes, usage of harmful chemicals such as insecticides, pesticides, etc.
• Noise Pollution : Excess noise due to sounds created by machines, loudspeakers, microphones, loud music, noise from industries, construction and civil engineering works etc. lead to noise pollution.

You can include various causes and health effects in your essay on Pollution from the following table:-

Pollution is the addition of unwanted substances which are incorporated into the environment that can damage our Earth. There are mainly four types of pollution, these include water pollution, air pollution, soil pollution, and noise pollution. One should note that any form of pollution is the result of careless activity carried out by man. We, humans daily dump waste directly into water bodies which leads to water pollution.

Vehicle emissions of smoke into the atmosphere impede the ability of all living things to breathe, leading to air pollution. Our garbage is dumped into landfills directly, which results in soil pollution. Although it cannot be seen, noise pollution is a severe type of pollution that can harm our ears.

The biggest threat planet Earth is facing is pollution. Unwanted substances leave a negative impact once released into an environment. There are four types of pollution air, water, land, and noise. Pollution affects the quality of life more than any human can imagine.

Due to air pollution, even teenage kids have developed various respiratory diseases. Water pollution has led to diseases in children. The waste we humans dump on the land or chemical fertilisers which are put on the land for agricultural purposes causes land/ soil pollution.

If the soil quality deteriorates due to such practices, the soil will become infertile and no crops could be grown in future. The government has launched various schemes over the years to fight pollution but individual efforts can also play a vital role.

Start by replacing plastic bags for shopping with cloth bags, stopping littering on roads and stopping wasting water are some of the basic things to start with that can lead to big changes in the environment.

Also Read: Essay on Green Energy PDF: 150 and 250 Words

One of the most critical threats faced by our planet in the present-day scenario. Environmental pollution is a global issue affecting people around the world. It is occurring in different forms, whether by affecting the air we breathe or the water resources we utilise for several purposes.

Air pollution came into being with an increase in the level of carbon dioxide, with the increase in pollutants which are contaminating the air and causing breathing discomfort as well as skin diseases to human beings. Talking about the other aspect, there is no life without water.

The water bodies are polluting and becoming unsafe for drinking or any other use because of industrial development, rapid urbanisation and various other reasons. Due to air pollution, diseases that can occur in human beings are asthma, various skin diseases, cancer, etc. Therefore, it is the essential need of the hour to take serious steps to reduce pollution to its core.

At a personal level, we can minimise environmental pollution by taking public transport or carpools to reduce vehicular smoke, avoiding firecrackers at festivals and celebrations can also cut down on air and noise pollution, and not using fertilisers and pesticides which can cause both water and soil pollution, and switching over to organic farming. The government can also bring strict rules and regulations to lessen industrial pollution.  

To sum up, any type of pollution is harmful to the environment with serious consequences like global warming, uneven climatic changes, etc. Due to our greediness and illegal human activities, the innocent lives of animals are lost. The time has come to join hands and work towards preserving and protecting the environment for the present as well as future generations.

Also Read: Essay on Environment: Examples and Tips

Find a sample of a short essay on pollution below:

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Nikita Puri

Nikita is a creative writer and editor, who is always ready to learn new skills. She has great knowledge about study abroad universities, researching and writing blogs about them. Being a perfectionist, she has a habit of keeping her tasks complete on time before the OCD hits her. When Nikita is not busy working, you can find her eating while binge-watching The office. Also, she breathes music. She has done her bachelor's from Delhi University and her master's from Jamia Millia Islamia.

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pollution is very harmful to the environment. By pollution many diseases and virus like coronavirus. So JOIN THE GREEN REVOLUTION AND STOP POLLUTION

PLANT MORE AND MORE TREES TO REDUCE POLLUTION

really plz stop pollution. we are dying cause of that

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Essay on Pollution for Students and Children

500+ words essay on pollution.

Pollution is a term which even kids are aware of these days. It has become so common that almost everyone acknowledges the fact that pollution is rising continuously. The term ‘pollution’ means the manifestation of any unsolicited foreign substance in something. When we talk about pollution on earth, we refer to the contamination that is happening of the natural resources by various pollutants . All this is mainly caused by human activities which harm the environment in ways more than one. Therefore, an urgent need has arisen to tackle this issue straightaway. That is to say, pollution is damaging our earth severely and we need to realize its effects and prevent this damage. In this essay on pollution, we will see what are the effects of pollution and how to reduce it.

Effects of Pollution

Pollution affects the quality of life more than one can imagine. It works in mysterious ways, sometimes which cannot be seen by the naked eye. However, it is very much present in the environment. For instance, you might not be able to see the natural gases present in the air, but they are still there. Similarly, the pollutants which are messing up the air and increasing the levels of carbon dioxide is very dangerous for humans. Increased level of carbon dioxide will lead to global warming .

Further, the water is polluted in the name of industrial development, religious practices and more will cause a shortage of drinking water. Without water, human life is not possible. Moreover, the way waste is dumped on the land eventually ends up in the soil and turns toxic. If land pollution keeps on happening at this rate, we won’t have fertile soil to grow our crops on. Therefore, serious measures must be taken to reduce pollution to the core.

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Types of Pollution

• Air Pollution
• Water Pollution
• Soil Pollution

How to Reduce Pollution?

After learning the harmful effects of pollution, one must get on the task of preventing or reducing pollution as soon as possible. To reduce air pollution, people should take public transport or carpool to reduce vehicular smoke. While it may be hard, avoiding firecrackers at festivals and celebrations can also cut down on air and noise pollution. Above all, we must adopt the habit of recycling. All the used plastic ends up in the oceans and land, which pollutes them.

So, remember to not dispose of them off after use, rather reuse them as long as you can. We must also encourage everyone to plant more trees which will absorb the harmful gases and make the air cleaner. When talking on a bigger level, the government must limit the usage of fertilizers to maintain the soil’s fertility. In addition, industries must be banned from dumping their waste into oceans and rivers, causing water pollution.

To sum it up, all types of pollution is hazardous and comes with grave consequences. Everyone must take a step towards change ranging from individuals to the industries. As tackling this problem calls for a joint effort, so we must join hands now. Moreover, the innocent lives of animals are being lost because of such human activities. So, all of us must take a stand and become a voice for the unheard in order to make this earth pollution-free.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

FAQs on Pollution

Q.1 What are the effects of pollution?

A.1 Pollution essentially affects the quality of human life. It degrades almost everything from the water we drink to the air we breathe. It damages the natural resources needed for a healthy life.

Q.2 How can one reduce pollution?

A.2 We must take individual steps to reduce pollution. People should decompose their waster mindfully, they should plant more trees. Further, one must always recycle what they can and make the earth greener.

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500+ Words Essay on Air Pollution

Air pollution refers to the unwanted and harmful substances in the air we breathe. These substances are known as pollutants. Air pollution can be caused by natural sources or human activities and can have serious health, environmental, and economic impacts. In recent years, air pollution has become a popular debate topic due to the decreasing quality of air. The atmosphere of Earth comprises 78% of Nitrogen, 21% of Oxygen, and 0.93% of Argon.

The causes of air pollution are both natural and man-made. Natural sources of air pollution are volcanic eruptions, wildfires, and dust storms. However, human activities like transportation, industrial activities, agricultural practices, waste management, etc. have more serious and long-term impacts on the air we breathe. An essay on air pollution is a popular academic writing topic assigned to students. To help students with their essays on air pollution, we have listed some samples in 100, 200, and 300 words. These samples will discuss the causes, consequences, and steps to reduce air pollution.

Table of Content

Essays on Air Pollution in 150 Words

Essays on air pollution in 200 words, essays on air pollution in 500 words, 10 lines on air pollution.

Air pollution poses serious environmental and health risks. It is caused by the release of harmful particles and gases in the air. This deteriorates the quality of air we breathe and poses a serious threat to the existence of all living beings on Earth. Human activities, for a long, have been the majority responsible for air pollution. These include vehicle emissions, industrial activities, and agricultural practices that release harmful pollutants into the air.

Prolonged exposure to air pollution can lead to respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems, and even premature death. Not only this, air pollution also poses a serious threat to the environment, leading to climate change. Environmentalists, international organizations, governments, and even private organizations are collectively working to reduce air pollution. They have implemented strict, cleaner technologies, and public awareness campaigns. These concerted efforts can help improve the air quality and create a healthy environment.

With rising environmental and health concerns, air pollution has become a popular debate topic. Air pollution is caused by natural and human activities, which release harmful substances, chemicals, and gases into the air we breathe. Our once-healthy environment has become a gas chamber, causing an existential threat to every species on Earth.

Since the advent of 18th-century Industrialisation, the emission of harmful gases like hydrogen chloride, benzene, and toluene has significantly increased. According to a report by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, a total of 188 pollutants have been classified as hazardous.

Human activities like burning fossil fuels for energy production, vehicular emission, construction and industrial releases are the major causes of air pollution. There are natural sources also which are responsible for air pollution but their impact is limited to their respective regions. For example, during a volcanic eruption, harmful gases like water vapor (H2O), carbon dioxide (CO2), and sulfur dioxide (SO2), are released into the atmosphere. However, such natural activities do not pose a global threat.

Tackling air pollution requires global cooperation and environmentally friendly approaches. One such method is relying on renewable energy sources, rather than exhausting limited natural resources, fossil fuels. World Health Organisation, along with global governments is taking steps to switch to affordable clean household energy solutions for cooking, heating and lighting.

Air pollution is a global concern. Therefore, it requires a collective approach from all countries and their respective governments. Careful implementation of environmentally friendly and sustained approaches will surely help create an air pollution-free environment.

World Health Organisation in its 2019 report stated that 99% of the world’s population was living in places where the WHO air quality guidelines levels were not met. Air pollution is known as the releaseof unwanted harmful substances and chemicals in the air. This damages the qualities of air we breath, affecting health and detoriates the environment quality. Air pollution is responsible for millions of premature deaths every year.

Causes of Air Pollution

Air pollution is caused by both natural and man-made activities. Nature causes of air pollution are volcanic erruptions, dust storms, and wildfires. During a volcanic eruption, harm gases and chemicals like water vapor (H2O), carbon dioxide (CO2), and sulfur dioxide (SO2) are released. Also, a small amounts of hydrogen sulfide, carbon monoxide, hydrogen chloride are also released. However, natural causes of air pollution are limited to there regions and do not poses long term environmental threats.

Human activities causes are the major factors causing air pollution. Human activities like industrialisation, vehicular emission, combustion, energy production, construction, agricultural activities and waste management are major factors of air pollution. Human activities releases pollutants like Carbon Monoxide, (CO), Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2), Carbon Dioxide (CO2) and methane causes air pollution.

In metropolitan cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, Beijing, Tokyo, etc. vehicular emission and construction are major causes of air pollution. Construction sites generate dust and emissions from equipment, contributing to local air pollution.

Consequences of Air Pollution

• Air pollution has harmful consequences on human health, the environment, and the economy.
• Air pollution contributes to a wide range of health problems, including respiratory diseases, cardiovascular diseases, lung cancer, and respiratory infections. Some of these diseases are asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
• Long-term exposure to air pollution can lead to decreased lung function, aggravation of existing health conditions, and premature death, particularly among vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions.
• Our ecosystem is the first victim of air pollution. Pollutants deposited onto soil and water bodies harm plants, animals, and aquatic life.
• Acid rain, caused by sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides reacting with water vapor in the atmosphere, damages forests, soils, and freshwater ecosystem
• Pollutants like carbon dioxide, methane, and black carbon are all also greenhouse gases, contributing to climate change.
• The rate at which these pollutants are released in the atmosphere can lead to global warming, rising temperatures, altered weather patterns, and more frequent and intense extreme weather events.
• Air pollution also affects our economy. Investments in air pollution control measures and environmental cleanup efforts entail financial expenditures for governments, businesses, and individuals.

Steps to Reduce Air Pollution

• Policies and investments in air pollution control measures are necessary to reduce the content of pollutants.
• Switching to environmental friendly activities can significantly help reduce air pollution. Excessive use of natural resources not only depletes them but puts a stain on the environment.
• Relying on solar energy, hydro energy and wind energy can reduce them burden on coal for electricity and power generation.
• On individual level, we can practice carpooling, use public transportation, cycling, walking, or electric vehicles whenever possible.
• we can avoid unnecessary idling to maintain proper tire pressure, and combine errands to minimize trips.
• Build a habit of turning lights and electronics off when not in use. Invest in energy-efficient appliances and adjust thermostats for optimal temperature control.
• Minimize waste generation and opt for reusable products whenever possible.
• Recycling reduces the need for raw materials and lowers energy consumption during production of new goods.

Here are 10 lines on air pollution. Feel free to add themto your essay on air pollution or similar writing topics.

1. Air pollution refers to the release of harmful gases and chemicals in the air we breathe.

2. Air pollution poses serious environmental and health risks.

3. It is caused by the release of harmful particles and gases in the air.

4. The causes of air pollution are both natural and man-made.

5. Human activities, for a long, have been the majority responsible for air pollution. These include vehicle emissions, industrial activities, and agricultural practices that release harmful pollutants into the air.

6. Air pollution is a global concern and it requires a collective approach.

7. Long-term exposure to air pollution can lead to decreased lung function, aggravation of existing health conditions, and premature death.

8. According to a WHO report, 99% of the global population is breathing harmful air.

9. Human activities release pollutants like Carbon Monoxide, (CO), Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2), Carbon Dioxide (CO2) and methane causes air pollution.

10. Switching to environmentally friendly activities can significantly help reduce air pollution.

This was all about an essay on air pollution. We hope the essay samples listed above will help you with your essay writing practice. For more information on such informative articles, visit GeekforGeeks.

Also Read: Essay on My Father in English: 300, 500 & 800 Words Essay 500+ Words Essay on Importance of Education in English 800 Words Essay On Internet in English for Students 500+ Words Essay on Mother Teresa in English For Students 500 Words Essay on Summer Vacation For Students in English

Essay on Air Pollution- FAQs

How to write an essay on air pollution.

Air pollution poses serious environmental and health risks. It is caused by the release of harmful particles and gases in the air. This deteriorates the quality of the air we breathe and poses a serious threat to the existence of all living beings on Earth. Human activities, for a long, have been the majority responsible for air pollution. These include vehicle emissions, industrial activities, and agricultural practices that release harmful pollutants into the air.

What are the major causes of air pollution?

Air pollution has both natural and man-made causes. The natural causes of air pollution are volcanic eruptions, wildfires and dust storms. The man-made causes of air pollution are industrial wastes, domestic wastes, agricultural activities, vehicular emissions, construction dust, etc. The man-made causes have a greater impact on the air quality.

What is the government doing to reduce air pollution?

The Indian government launched the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) as a long-term, time-bound, national-level strategy to fight the air pollution problem all over India in a sustainable manner. The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 lists all the central and state rules to manage air quality and monitor pollutants released by industries, constructions, and agricultural and vehicular activities. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and the State Pollution Control Board manage these activities in their respective jurisdiction.

Is air pollution causes by natural sources?

Natural sources of air pollution are volcanic eruptions, forest fires, and dust storms. However, these natural sources of air pollution do not pose a serious threat to the global air quality.

What are some lines on air pollution?

Air pollution refers to the release of harmful gases and chemicals in the air we breathe. Air pollution poses serious environmental and health risks. The causes of air pollution are both natural and man-made. Human activities, for a long, have been the majority responsible for air pollution. These include vehicle emissions, industrial activities, and agricultural practices that release harmful pollutants into the air. Air pollution is a global concern and it requires a collective and systematic approach. Long-term exposure to air pollution can lead to decreased lung function, aggravation of existing health conditions, and premature death. Human activities release pollutants like Carbon Monoxide, (CO), Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2), Carbon Dioxide (CO2) and methane causing air pollution.

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• Published: 09 July 2024

Integration of ten years of daily weather, traffic, and air pollution data from Norway’s six largest cities

• Cong Cao   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0001-8289-1705 1 , 2  

Scientific Data volume  11 , Article number:  744 ( 2024 ) Cite this article

Metrics details

• Atmospheric science
• Climate change
• Environmental impact

This study integrates ten years of daily weather, traffic, and air pollution data across the six largest Norwegian cities, utilizing data from the Norwegian Public Roads Administration, the Norwegian Institute of Air Research, and the Norwegian Meteorological Institute. The compilation of this dataset involved detailed selection and verification of monitoring stations to ensure consistency and accuracy. Initial data collection focused on the top ten most populous cities in Norway, with the subsequent examination of traffic and air pollution monitoring sites. Weather variables were then matched to the selected sites, resulting in a comprehensive dataset from 2009 to 2018. The resulting dataset encompasses extensive information, including harmful pollutants such as Nitric oxide (NO), Nitrogen dioxide (NO 2 ), Nitrogen oxides (NO x ), Particulate Matter less than 2.5 micrometers in diameter (PM 2.5 ), and Particulate Matter less than 10 micrometers in diameter (PM 10 ). The dataset’s potential for further analysis and its utility in informing policy decisions underscore its significance. This integrated dataset is a valuable resource for researchers and policymakers alike, facilitating comprehensive studies on the intersection of weather, traffic, and air pollution in urban environments.

Background & Summary

Integrating diverse datasets spanning daily weather, traffic, and air pollution across six major Norwegian cities presents a significant endeavor to understand the complex interactions within urban environments 1 . Urban areas face increasing challenges related to climate change, air quality decline, and traffic congestion, necessitating comprehensive data analysis for informed decision-making and policy formulation 2 .

Intense traffic congestion exacerbates air quality issues by increasing traffic volume 3 , 4 . Air quality hazards pose significant challenges for urban residents and city administrations alike 5 , 6 . Research has shown that air pollution, including nitrogen oxide ( N O x ) and particulate matter, significantly contributes to mortality rates among urban populations 7 , 8 . These emissions primarily originate from transportation sources 9 , making the transportation sector crucial in mitigating air pollution 10 . Additionally, meteorological factors such as temperature, precipitation, wind speed, relative humidity, and atmospheric pressure significantly influence the dispersion and accumulation of particulate matter less than 2.5 micrometers in diameter(PM 2.5 ) 6 . Therefore, research on the interplay between air pollution and meteorological factors affecting chronic respiratory diseases presents particular challenges in Northern Europe. As one of the Nordic countries, Norway is narrow and vast due to its geographical characteristics. Each city is located in different geographical locations, thus traffic flow and weather conditions vary significantly 11 , 12 . Tromsø in the north is situated within the Arctic Circle, experiencing a cold climate with reduced sunshine. Fredrikstad in the southeast is influenced by the North Sea climate, receiving more rainfall throughout the year and being prone to storms. Bergen in the west maintains high humidity year-round and is frequently battered by Atlantic storms. The capital, Oslo, located in the south, enjoys four distinct seasons and a relatively mild climate. Trondheim in the center is inland and has a colder climate. Stavanger in the southwest is influenced by the North Atlantic Warm Current, resulting in relatively warm winters but precipitation throughout the year. The differing traffic and weather conditions in these cities illustrate Norway’s diverse geography and its profound impact on residents’ lives.

This study compiles data from the Norwegian Public Roads Administration, the Norwegian Institute of Air Research, and the Norwegian Meteorological Institute, supplying a comprehensive dataset covering a decade of observations from 2009 to 2018. The dataset encompasses various pollutants such as Nitric oxide (NO), Nitrogen dioxide (NO 2 ), NO x , PM 2.5 , and Particulate Matter less than 10 micrometers in diameter (PM 10 ), along with detailed weather and traffic information. Through meticulous site selection and verification, a total of 18 monitoring stations were identified across the cities of Oslo, Bergen, Trondheim, Fredrikstad, Stavanger, and Tromsø.

The broader goal motivating the creation of this dataset is to facilitate multidisciplinary research endeavors and inform evidence-based policymaking. By synthesizing data from multiple sources, this study aims to clarify the complex interplay between weather patterns, traffic dynamics, and air quality in urban settings. The potential reuse value of this dataset is substantial., offering researchers and policymakers a comprehensive resource to investigate environmental trends, assess the efficacy of mitigation strategies, and develop sustainable urban planning initiatives.

This dataset holds promise for a wide range of applications, including epidemiological studies linking environmental exposures to health outcomes, transportation planning to alleviate traffic congestion, and climate modeling to assess the impact of urbanization on local weather patterns 13 . Since this dataset consists of daily data, previous studies have shown that exposure to high concentrations of NO x and PM 2.5 , increases the incidence of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, with a lagged effect based on the day 14 . Similar studies include Chossière et al . 15 , who found that high NO x concentrations contribute to mortality 15 , and Feng et al . 16 , who pointed out that even lower concentrations of PM 2.5 pose a risk to public health 16 . Therefore, the dataset is of great value in exploring the health consequences caused by traffic pollution. Overall, the integration of these datasets represents a crucial step towards enhancing our understanding of urban environmental dynamics and advancing strategies for fostering healthier, more sustainable cities 17 .

The methodology involves several steps to generate and compile the dataset, including experimental design, data collection, analysis, and computational processing. Traffic flow, air pollution, and weather data are sourced from different providers. Compiling the dataset involved meticulous verification of geographical locations to identify common monitoring stations across the three types of data. Initially, the ten largest cities in Norway were selected based on population. Weather, pollution, and traffic data were collected from local monitoring stations for each city, prioritizing traffic and air pollution monitoring stations.

The geographical coordinates of traffic and air pollution monitoring sites were cross-validated to identify the closest matching sites, ensuring accuracy. This process was iteratively repeated for each city, resulting in the selection of monitoring stations such as Kirkeveien, Smestad, E6 Manglerud, and Alnabru in Oslo.

Weather variable selection involved excluding cities lacking certain weather conditions. The locations of weather monitoring stations were compared with air pollution and traffic monitoring stations to identify the nearest ones, iteratively repeating this process. Due to the absence of identical monitoring stations, especially since the distribution of weather monitoring stations differs significantly from those of the other two public data management agencies, I opted to select geographically proximate locations between weather and the other two. I assumed that the detailed weather conditions observed at these stations would be similar. Given Norway’s relatively small urban area, the meteorological conditions in areas close to traffic and pollution are also expected to be similar. Future studies could consider employing spatial network analysis for a more precise exploration, as highlighted by previous research 18 , 19 . For instance, Kang et al . 20 utilized spatial analysis and geoAI in their study conducted in Sweden 20 . This approach enhances the capability to examine spatial relationships and geographic influences effectively. The paper provides specific distances to clarify the degree of proximity between these locations in Table  1 and Fig.  1 . Figure  1 shows the locations of monitoring stations, and red hollow circles indicate the monitoring stations. Additionally, Fig.  2 outlines the steps in data collection and processing, offering a clearer and more intuitive understanding.

Map showing the locations of monitoring stations, sourced from a Google map, Map data ©2024 Google.

The steps for data collection and processing.

The selected analysis period covers daily data from 2009 to 2018. The dataset includes maximum and minimum normalized data after data imputation using the R package “mice”, ensuring no missing values. Data from Oslo, Bergen, and Stavanger spanning 2007 to 2018 were collected using the same methodology for subsequent analysis.

Given that data collection occurred just as COVID-19 was concluding or nearing its conclusion, it’s crucial to acknowledge that traffic patterns and associated air pollution likely fluctuated during the pandemic. Therefore, data from the period before COVID-19 was selected for analysis. Additionally, annual air pollution data undergoes quality assurance procedures before July 1 of the following year; before this date, adjustments may occur due to ongoing quality control measures. Additionally, hourly data from Oslo’s Bygdøy for the first half of 2019 was collected, with missing data on May 17th supplemented.

To avoid overcrowding the horizontal axis with daily data points, the data was initially aggregated into monthly intervals. Subsequently, selected data points were sampled for visualization. Figure  3 presents visualizations for traffic volume (TV) and air pollution data in Oslo, as well as NO x values from several other chosen cities.

Visualization of aggregated monthly data for Oslo’s traffic and air pollution, along with NOx values from selected cities.

Data Records

The data presented in the repository consists of comprehensive information on daily weather, traffic, and air pollution across six major Norwegian cities over ten years, from 2009 to 2018. The dataset was compiled from multiple sources, including the Norwegian Public Roads Administration, the Norwegian Institute of Air Research, and the Norwegian Meteorological Institute.

The dataset is available at the Scientific Data Bank platform at the following link: https://www.scidb.cn/en/detail?dataSetId=5eb39369148d4f40bb5ec398d6503c46 21 . The data is provided in Excel or CSV format, ensuring compatibility with various analysis tools and software packages. Here’s a summary of the data records:

Data Content: The dataset includes information on common pollutants such as NO x , NO, PM 2.5 , etc, along with detailed weather variables including air temperature, dew point temperature, cloud cover, wind speed, humidity, precipitation, and snow cover.

Repository Structure: The repository contains separate files for each city, with data organized in a tabular format. Each file corresponds to a specific monitoring station within the respective city.

File Naming Convention: The files are named according to the city and the type of data source. For example, “Oslo_traffic.csv” contains traffic data from Oslo.

Data Availability: The dataset covers daily observations for each variable from 2009 to 2018.

Data Validation: The dataset underwent thorough validation to ensure accuracy and consistency. This involved meticulous site selection, verification of geographical locations, and comparison of monitoring stations across different data sources. Missing values were imputed using the R package “mice”.

Code Availability: The code used for data analysis and processing is available on the author’s GitHub repository at the following link: https://github.com/congca/Scientific-data-publish and https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.11649590 . Readers can navigate the repository to access specific city data files, explore the variables of interest, and utilize the dataset for various research purposes, including environmental studies, urban planning, and policy formulation.

Tables  2 to 3 , and Appendix  1 provide comprehensive descriptions of the variables (columns) included in the traffic, air pollution, and weather datasets. These tables offer detailed information about each variable, including their names, units of measurement, and the specific data they represent. In Fig.  4 heatmap, the color blue denotes the presence of variables, whereas white indicates their absence. This visualization offers a clear representation of the occurrence of different weather variables across each city. They clarify the abbreviations used in the datasets and enumerate the specific weather-related variables available for each city. It is important to note that all cities include data variables related to both traffic and air pollution, ensuring a consistent dataset for comparative analysis and research across different urban areas. Table  4 presents a detailed breakdown of urban and countryside locations within various cities. This table categorizes specific monitoring sites and their corresponding environmental contexts, providing valuable insights into the spatial distribution of data collection points. By distinguishing between urban and countryside locations, this table facilitates a deeper understanding of how geographic context influences traffic and air pollution data. The variable abbreviations are provided in Table  5 .

Weather variables in different cities.

Technical Validation

Compiling the final dataset proved time-consuming due to the disparate sources of traffic, pollution, and weather data. The objective was to identify common monitoring stations or, at least, those near each other across the three types of data sources. As a result, the process involved meticulous verification and comparison of geographical locations using Google Maps.

Initially, data collection began by selecting the ten largest cities in Norway based on population. Subsequently, data from local weather, pollution, and traffic monitoring stations were gathered from the respective government websites for each city. Each city boasted numerous monitoring stations for each type of data. The process prioritized traffic and air pollution monitoring stations.

To ensure accuracy, the geographical coordinates of traffic and air pollution monitoring sites were cross-referenced and verified against each other, thereby identifying the closest matching sites. This iterative process was repeated for every city, culminating in the selection of monitoring sites such as Kirkeveien, Smestad, E6 Manglerud, and Alnabru in Oslo; Danmarks Plass, Loddefjord, Rådal, and Åsane in Bergen; Kannik and Schancheholen in Stavanger; and Bakke Kirke, E6 Tiller ved XXL, and Elgeseter in Trondheim.

Additionally, the air pollutant monitoring stations adjacent to the highway were chosen to exclusively study traffic-related air pollution, mitigating other potential sources of pollution. This meticulous site selection process resulted in a total of 18 monitoring stations across various cities, with the earliest available data dating back to February 1, 1996, provided in hourly intervals. The common pollutants monitored across these sites include NO, NO 2 , NO x , PM 2.5 , and PM 10 , underscoring the significance of the selected monitoring sites and the effort invested in their identification. The information provided here serves as a testament to the value derived from the time-intensive process of identifying these monitoring sites, updated as of July 20, 2022.

Following that, the selection process turned to weather variables. However, the weather data collection website operates with a system wherein variables are chosen before selecting the city, resulting in a reversed order of selection. Given that there are more weather variables than pollutants and traffic, if all the stations in a particular city lack certain weather conditions, that city is excluded. Consequently, only six cities remained in the dataset. Stavanger was initially included but was subsequently removed due to a significant proportion of missing values in certain weather variables upon download.

The subsequent step involved comparing the locations of weather monitoring stations with air pollution and traffic monitoring stations to identify the nearest one. This process was repeated iteratively. The next consideration was to check the time to find the highest frequency but longest period available. The air quality data availability by city and pollutant is in Fig.  5 .

Air Quality Data Availability by City and Pollutant.

The period chosen is from 2009 to 2018, with daily data. All data is stored in Excel or CSV format and can be found at Scientific data bank . Tables in the data records section provide essential details about the main data inputs and variables. The data underwent maximum and minimum normalization, followed by data imputation using the R package “mice” to ensure no missing values. Additionally, data was collected from Oslo, Bergen, and Stavanger spanning 2007 to 2018 using the same methodology for further analysis. Monthly plot covering traffic volume (TV), NO x , and PM 2.5 readings from Oslo, Bergen, Trondheim, and Tromsø over ten years is also available.

Two standard check

Studies have utilized this dataset for related research. For instance, Cao (2024) examined hourly data from the same source to investigate interactions among air pollution, traffic, and weather, comparing machine learning algorithms with traditional methods 1 . Furthermore, Cao et al . (2024) utilized a subset of this dataset to analyze key meteorological and traffic factors influencing air pollutants, assessing the predictive accuracy of physics-based deep learning and long short-term memory (LSTM) 17 .

All the data sources are freely available. Air pollution data is obtained from https://luftkvalitet.nilu.no/en/historical . The website offers historical air quality data verified by municipal authorities and the National Air Quality Reference Laboratory, including preliminary data for the current year. You can view charts or download data in CSV format, select specific dates, times, stations, or components, and choose from various averages. Data can be accessed at http://api.nilu.no for personal use and should be properly referenced in your work. When referencing NILU air quality data for Oslo in 2023, cite it as NILU - Norwegian Institute for Air Research. (2023). Air Quality Data for Oslo, January 2023 - December 2023. Available at: http://api.nilu.no .

Weather data is sourced from: https://seklima.met.no/observations/ . When using meteorological data provided by the Norwegian Climate Service Center ( https://klimaservicesenter.no/ ), please ensure that you accurately cite them as the source in your research or course materials. This includes listing the Norwegian Climate Service Center in your references and providing a link to their website, allowing readers or viewers to verify the data source.

Traffic flow data is obtained from the Norwegian Public Roads Administration’s website, specifically from https://trafikkdata.atlas.vegvesen.no/#/kart?lat=62.59346885386541&lon=10.86809745774079&trafficType=vehicle&zoom=4 .

Use of the traffic data API is governed by the Norwegian Open Government Data License (NLOD), allowing copying, distribution, modification, and commercial use, with considerations for data quality, potential errors, and omissions. The Norwegian Public Roads Administration does not guarantee data accuracy or relevance and assumes no liability for any losses from its use.

Code availability

The dataset is available from: https://www.scidb.cn/en/detail?dataSetId=5eb39369148d4f40bb5ec398d6503c46  or https://doi.org/10.57760/sciencedb.17721 . The code to reproduce the analysis is available at Github repository with https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.11649590 .

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Acknowledgements

The author acknowledges funding support from the Caltech Linde Center for Science, Society, and Public Policy.

Open access funding provided by NTNU Norwegian University of Science and Technology (incl St. Olavs Hospital - Trondheim University Hospital).

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Linde Center for Science, Society, and Public Policy, Division of the Humanities and Social Sciences, California Institute of Technology, 1200 E. California Blvd, Pasadena, 91125, CA, USA

Department of Economics, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Høgskoleringen 1, Trondheim, Trøndelag, 7034, Norway

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The sole author, CC, conceived the experiments, collected and organized the data, analyzed the data, interpreted the results, wrote the manuscript, and edited and revised the manuscript to its final form.

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Correspondence to Cong Cao .

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Faculty - July 8, 2024

The Ethical Imperative of Environmental Protection

• Sustainability Management

In a few days, my eldest granddaughter will celebrate her seventh birthday. I am fortunate beyond words to have two extraordinary daughters and three wonderful granddaughters. I give a great deal of thought to the planet they will inherit. When I read about environmental goals for the middle of the 21st century, I recognize that while I probably won’t be around to see the world reach or miss those goals, I pray that all of them will be. Since the middle of the 1970s, I have worked on environmental policy, and during the 21st century, I’ve put a great deal of effort into developing master’s programs to educate a new type of sustainability professional. I do this because I believe we have an ethical responsibility to protect environmental quality. Humans did not create this planet; it is the ultimate divine gift. God gave us this treasure, and I cannot understand how anyone who claims to be religious would deliberately destroy it. And yet we see supposedly devout state attorneys general working overtime to stop the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from preventing pollution. They have many rationales and excuses, but rather than proposing a better way to protect the planet, they are content to stop those who are trying to do just that. I consider the acts of these pollution enablers to be unethical and shameful. If you don’t like EPA’s approach, how would you suggest we keep our planet intact for our children and grandchildren? 

I am far from the most religious person you will ever meet, but I believe there is a God and that the miracle of life is just that: an act of divine creation. I do not think we should pursue environmental protection to the exclusion of other important goals and values, but I think deliberately poisoning people and the planet is evil. I recognize that sometimes we have no choice but to damage the planet. A nation defending its freedom in a war may need to sacrifice ecosystems to continue its way of life. Sometimes, feeding our human population requires that we damage the environment. In these instances, our goal should be to minimize damage and repair what we can as soon as we can. When corporations and their political enablers deliberately cause pollution and fight efforts to reduce it, they are maximizing rather than minimizing damage.

Environmental ethicists would consider me a shallow ecologist and someone who practices anthropocentrism, a belief that human well-being is central. Deep ecologists consider planetary well-being to be self-justifying. I find it inconsistent to favor ecological well-being over other values while enjoying the benefits of modern technology. Moreover, with over eight billion people on the planet, I think it is too late to live in complete harmony with nature. As I often say, we have too many people and too little planet to enable us to “go back to the land.” But it is not too late to use our ingenuity and sense of self-preservation to design a high-tech circular economy that maximizes human well-being while minimizing environmental damage. That has been the topic of my last two books: The Sustainable City (second edition with Dong Guo, 2021) and Environmentally Sustainable Growth (2023).

The pragmatic problem with ideological anti-environmentalists is that they seem to believe the damage humans inflict on the environment is cost-free. Climate deniers lead this delusional pack. It is incredible to me that the Governor of Florida can lead a state experiencing sea level rise, hurricane winds, and massive flooding while denying that climate change is making things worse. Science is clear that much of the increase in global warming is being caused by human technology. Insurance companies are abandoning Florida because they can’t predict the cost of damage from climate-induced extreme weather. Every evening on the national news the reporters begin with video images of forest fires, floods, droughts, tornadoes, and countless examples of extreme weather events. Yes, some of the damage is because more people live in the pathway of destruction, but some of it is because a warming planet is making our weather more extreme. An early July hurricane just hit the Caribbean in places that rarely see hurricanes, and the hurricane formed much earlier than usual. The ocean is warmer than normal, and the weather is a response to that. Climate attribution science can now separate the “natural” causes of extreme weather from human-induced change, and some of these impacts are caused by human-made greenhouse gases.

But climate change is only one source of costly environmental damage. Toxics, plastic waste, microplastics, invasive species, and ecosystem destruction all have costly impacts. Over the last four decades, the U.S.A. has spent about a trillion dollars on containing toxic waste and removing toxic waste from sensitive environments. We are paying the overdue bill for careless management of human-made chemical poison. There is no such thing as a free lunch. When someone gives you a free sandwich in a bar, they expect you to buy a few beers. The costs of the damage we cause will eventually need to be paid.

But pragmatic considerations aside, let’s return to our focus on morality and what is right and what is wrong. Back in 2017,  I wrote :

“The recent birth of my first grandchild reinforces my desire to believe that the world that she will inherit will be at least as good as my world, if not better. At the start of my graduate studies, I remember reading Robert Heilbroner’s, An Inquiry into the Human Prospect, and its remarkable postscript, “What Has Posterity Ever Done for Me?” Heilbroner admitted there was no economically rational way to justify a concern for the distant future, but nevertheless believed that we would still somehow manage to care about it. In one version of this essay, published in the  New York Times in 1975, he observed that:

“…I am hopeful that in the end a survivalist ethic will come to the fore… from an experience that will bring home to us…the personal responsibility that defies all the homicidal promptings of reasonable calculation. Moreover, I believe that the coming generations, in their encounters with famine, war and the threatened life‐carrying capacity of the globe, may be given just such an experience. It is a glimpse into the void of a universe without man. I must rest my ultimate faith on the discovery by these future generations, as the ax of the executioner passes into their hands, of the transcendent importance of posterity for them.” 

I find it amazing and remarkably inconsistent that the same ideology that advocates posting the Ten Commandments in every classroom opposes telling chemical companies to stop emitting toxic substances into the air and water. Heilbroner argues for an ethics of human survival dominating economic rationality. I am adding to that argument a moral argument that wanton and purposeless destruction of the planet is evil and wrong. The only way for ideologues to avoid this moral dilemma is to deny the science of ecology and the environment. They must somehow pretend that toxic chemicals are not actually toxic. When they do that, they are either deluding themselves or lying. Which is it, Governor DeSantis? The other way to avoid ethical responsibility is to argue that you oppose regulation because it is a bad tactic. In that case, what is the alternative you propose, red state Attorney General? What approach would work better?

The conservative argument is that environmental regulation, in fact, all regulation, inhibits economic development. My argument is that environmental regulation encourages technological innovation. The regulatory push for a cleaner environment has stimulated the development of catalytic convertors, electric vehicles, solar cells, more efficient batteries, stack scrubbers, anaerobic digesters, and energy-efficient smart grids, to cite a few examples. In the final analysis, it is clearer than ever that something as essential as clean air and water has been subsumed under the red state-blue state culture war. Politicos opposing environmental regulation are more interested in accumulating political power than ensuring that people live in a clean and safe environment. Power corrupts and, in the case of environmental protection, leads public officials away from the path of morality and good. When people are threatened by a sudden emergency, first responders help save them and are appropriately applauded and thanked for their service. When people are threatened by danger that develops slowly and whose cause is less obvious, some question the presence of the threat itself. They even question the integrity of those seeking to mitigate these subtle dangers.

Environmental damage can happen rapidly and dramatically, like the toxic train wreck in East Palestine, Ohio, or develop slowly and behind the scenes, like the gradual development of global warming or biodiversity loss. In all of these cases, there is an ethical imperative to prevent or respond to the damage we have done. We owe it to the humans and other creatures who follow us. It is our debt to posterity.

Views and opinions expressed here are those of the authors, and do not necessarily reflect the official position of Columbia School of Professional Studies or Columbia University.

About the Program

The Columbia University M.S. in Sustainability Management program offered by the School of Professional Studies in partnership with the Climate School provides students cutting-edge policy and management tools they can use to help public and private organizations and governments address environmental impacts and risks, pollution control, and remediation to achieve sustainability. The program is customized for working professionals and is offered as both a full- and part-time course of study.

Steven Cohen, Ph.D.

Senior Vice Dean, School of Professional Studies; Professor in the Practice of Public Affairs, School of International and Public Affairs

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Home — Essay Samples — Environment — Human Impact — Air Pollution

Essays on Air Pollution

As you embark on writing an air pollution essay, it's essential to structure your content effectively. Begin with the introductory paragraph, where you provide basic facts, statistics, and definitions to establish context. Depending on the scope of your essay, you may choose to focus on indoor or outdoor pollution. Tailor your introduction to set the tone and direction of your essay.

Delve into the heart of your essay by discussing the problem of air pollution and its sources. Explain why these sources exist and highlight the pollutants involved. Consider various air pollution essay topics, including respiratory issues, child health concerns, ozone layer depletion, and impacts on wildlife and cardiovascular health. From municipal waste management to green energy initiatives, explore potential solutions and effective strategies for mitigating pollution.

In crafting your essay, ensure you present a methodical approach and propose at least one viable solution to address the problem. Draw inspiration from examples of proposal essays, where statistical data and compelling facts enhance the narrative. Your main thesis statement should encapsulate the causes and effects of air pollution.

To add depth to your essay, consider discussing environmental issues in your local area and drawing comparisons to broader ecological challenges. Providing concrete examples and leveraging factual evidence will enrich your argument and make your essay more compelling.

Consider exploring examples of proposal essays on air pollution to gain valuable insights into structuring and presenting your ideas effectively. By incorporating relevant examples, factual information, and a persuasive argument, your essay will resonate with readers and contribute to greater awareness and action on this critical issue.

Hook Examples for Air Pollution Essays

Statistical hook.

Did you know that each year, air pollution causes over 4.2 million premature deaths worldwide? These startling statistics underscore the urgent need to address this global crisis.

Anecdotal Hook

Picture this: A bustling cityscape obscured by a thick haze of smog, where children play wearing masks. This is the stark reality faced by many urban areas grappling with air pollution.

Question Hook

How can we breathe easy when the air we inhale is increasingly toxic? Explore the consequences of air pollution and discover potential solutions to this pressing environmental issue.

Rhetorical Question Hook

Can we afford to ignore the invisible threat that hangs in the air we breathe? Delve into the hidden dangers of air pollution and its far-reaching impact on public health.

Quotation Hook

"The earth does not belong to us: we belong to the earth." — Marlee Matlin. Reflect on this thought-provoking quote as we delve into the environmental implications of air pollution.

Historical Hook

Travel back to the mid-20th century when air quality in major cities like London and Los Angeles was notoriously poor. Explore the historical context of air pollution regulation and its impact.

Definition Hook

What exactly is air pollution, and how does it differ from other environmental issues? Gain a clear understanding of this concept and its multifaceted nature.

Contrast Hook

Contrast the serene beauty of pristine landscapes with images of smog-choked cities. This stark juxtaposition highlights the importance of combating air pollution.

Narrative Hook

Step into the shoes of individuals living in heavily polluted areas and experience their daily struggles. Their stories shed light on the human side of the air pollution crisis.

Shocking Statement Hook

Prepare to be shocked by the surprising sources of indoor air pollution lurking within our homes. The danger may be closer than you think.

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Air Pollution: Causes, Effects, and Solutions

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Cases of Air Pollution in Malaysia

The urgent problem of pollution in modern world, negative impacts of air pollution and steps that the usa is taking to curb this problem, environmental pollution in the transport sector and the benefits of electric cars to our environment, ways you can reduce air pollution from your business , environmental factors and climate influences in california, environmental probelms in pakistan: issues in the big cities, evaluation of the health impact of air pollution in america and china, assessment of the ecological problem arising from air pollutants, analysis of the bronx air pollutants problem and the responsibility of the government, trees against world pollution, informative pollutions, their types, causes, impacts, and solutions, understanding the problem of air pollutants and its impact on temperature, the difficulties in mitigating the effects of climate change in the current world, analysis of the approach to better air quality and reduction of air pollution in the us, review of the documentary "under the dome" and the risks associated with air pollution in china, air filter in thailand, a study on the correlation between changes in air pollution and water sources, the serious problem of air pollution in saudi arabia and the solutions to the environmental issue, human impact on the carbon cycle.

Air pollution is contamination of the indoor or outdoor environment by any chemical, physical or biological agent that modifies the natural characteristics of the atmosphere.

Household combustion devices, motor vehicles, industrial facilities and forest fires are common sources of air pollution. Pollutants of major public health concern include particulate matter, carbon monoxide, ozone, nitrogen dioxide and sulfur dioxide.

Respiratory and heart problems, child health problems, mortality, global warming, acid rain, eutrophication, depletion of the ozone layer, negative effect on wildlife.

Policies and investments that support sustainable land use, cleaner household energy and transport, energy-efficient housing, power generation, industry, and better municipal waste management can effectively reduce key sources of ambient air pollution.

A child born today might not breathe clean air until they are 8. Inhaling air pollution takes away at least 1-2 years of a typical human life. Pollutants that are released into the air, as opposed to land and water pollutants, are the most harmful. Rising levels of air pollution in Beijing has brought a new disease – Beijing cough.

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Clearing the Air: Navigating Commerce Clause Complexities in Federal Environmental Regulation Amidst Rising Air Pollution Challenges

This summer, many Americans watched the skies turn orange. Wildfire smoke particulates, now endemic to the West Coast, were also felt on the East Coast with unprecedented severity. As American agencies attempt to mitigate the effects of the climate crisis and protect public health, environmental challenges such as air quality defy the rigidity of the federal-state hierarchy, originating in one locality but spreading dangerous externalities across state or country lines.

In the United States, air is not treated by the law as a natural resource, nor is safe, healthy air considered a right. Instead, the federal government is able to regulate this natural force because of its power through the Constitution’s Commerce Clause. By treating natural resources as cross-state market goods, the Commerce Clause serves as a disputed but indispensable constitutional impetus for federal environmental regulation.

The meta-tension regarding environmental legislation in America today appears to lie in a conservative skepticism about broad regulatory power. Many view independent agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to be run amok, creating problems in market spaces that favor addressing the externalities of industry to the point that they burden industries’ abilities to function productively. On the contrary, many would argue that the role of government is to make sure that the marketplace is functioning in a way that corporations don’t pose undue and excess burdens on people via externalities such as air pollution.

The Commerce Clause, found in Article 1 Section 8 of the Constitution, gives Congress the power “to regulate commerce with foreign nations, and among the several states, and with the Indian tribes.” [1] The Commerce Clause has been widely interpreted to allow the federal government to regulate interstate commerce. Along these lines, a broad interpretation of the Commerce Clause permits a reading that the federal government can regulate activities that negatively affect the environment and poorly affect interstate commerce. The Commerce Clause is not the most well-tailored provision from which to infer federal environmental intervention; it only centers the market, which is but one factor to consider in a holistic redress to environmental woes.

State-federal constitutional doctrine, stemming from Commerce Clause authority, as it relates to environmental law attempts to address a natural and expansive problem through narrow and hierarchical means. This summer, we saw how air pollution knows no border or tiered government system. The EPA’s Clean Air Act proves a useful case study for examining instances that arise, via the complexities of federal delegation and regulation, of tension or collaboration between the federal government and states, and principles of preemption, federal supremacy, and cooperative federalism. Polar opposite state-federal relationships as they involve clean air exist, for example, in California and West Virginia.

The dispute over the Clean Air Act in the landmark 2021 Supreme Court Case West Virginia v. EPA is an example of state-federal tensions and a weakening sense of federal supremacy. The notion of federal supremacy, stemming back from Marbury v. Madison (1803), manifests in federal preemption, the doctrine that federal rules have to trump state rules if state rules conflict with federal ones. West Virginia v. EPA effectively neutered the ability of the federal government, particularly the EPA, to regulate environmental pollution, and gave a huge amount of this power instead to the states. The court held that the EPA did not have authority to regulate industry emissions. In their reasoning in West Virginia v. EPA the Justices introduced a new principle of statutory interpretation known as the Major Questions Doctrine. The Major Questions Doctrine is a limit on agencies’ regulatory power— if an agency is trying to regulate in a way that decides an issue of “major national significance,” the “action must be supported by clear congressional authorization.” [2] The Major Questions Doctrine signifies an increasingly strict, although somewhat arbitrary, evolution of federal delegation powers.

While the dispute over the Clean Air Act in West Virginia v. EPA is an example of state-federal tensions and a weakening sense of federal supremacy, the enforcement of the Clean Air Act in California, however, reveals a near-opposite relationship, one of cooperative federalism. Cooperative federalism is a principle that recognizes the sometimes confusing overlap between state and federal powers and builds upon this necessary interplay. Scholars believe cooperative federalism can be a springboard for regulatory inventiveness; Heather Gerken writes that “cooperative federal regimes do a better job of catalyzing state experimentation. [3]

Along these lines, the Clean Air Act sets minimum requirements for emission standards; the very same Act at question in West Virginia v. EPA can, in a different light, be seen as a prime opportunity for cooperative federalism. Under the Clean Air Act, California can enact a law that not only meets but far exceeds the federal agency’s standard for vehicle emissions, using federal legislation as a jumping off point to take bold climate action. In addition, the Clean Air Act allows other states to adopt California’s motor vehicle emission standards. States can either adhere to the lighter federal standards, or California’s more strict ones. 

Such provisions are an example not only of cooperative vertical federalism, the relationship between the federal government and states, but of cooperative horizontal federalism as well, the relationship between states as shaped by the federal government. The EPA was established to regulate pollution “in concert with the states.” [4] California’s regulatory relationship with EPA is a prime and expansive example of such a concert; the relationship is not merely a duet between the state and federal government— other states are invited to harmonize as well.

While the Commerce Clause is far from the perfect constitutional principle from which to derive federal environmental regulation, it’s what we’ve got. There has been much doubt about the Commerce Clause’s continued capacity to enable environmental regulation. As of yet, however, it has largely held up. In their 1995 ruling in U.S. v. Lopez , the court established three factors for what Congress can regulate regarding commerce pursuant to the Commerce Clause—Congress can regulate only the channels of interstate commerce, the instrumentalities of interstate commerce, and activities that substantially affect or relate to interstate commerce. [5] The court also noted that it is important to distinguish between economic and non-economic activity, as Congress can only regulate activity that is deemed economic. [6] Many scholars expressed fear that if this more scrutinizing view of congressional commerce power were applied, federal environmental laws regulating intrastate resources would be at risk. It’s been almost 20 years, and no such changes have been made. Additionally, the surprise ruling this year in Haaland v. Brackeen reveals a continued commitment to preserving the Commerce Clause.

The Commerce Clause remains a flawed but essential provision to enable federal regulations, particularly in an era of heightened dangers such as deteriorating air quality. To remediate the challenges in addressing borderless phenomena such as air quality within a state-federal hierarchy system it is essential that the Court, states, and federal agencies look to expand opportunities for cooperative federalism in addressing environmental hazards and the climate crisis.

[1]   U.S. Constitution, art. 1, sec. 8, cl. 3

[2] Jaclyn Lopez, “The Major Questions Doctrine Post-West Virginia v. EPA,” American Bar (The American Bar Accosiation, January 3, 2023), https://www.americanbar.org/groups/environment_energy_resources/publicat… (link is external) .

[3] Heather  K. Gerken, “Federalism as the New Nationalism: An Overview,” The Yale Law Journal, April 2014, https://www.yalelawjournal.org/essay/federalism-as-the-new-nationalism-a… (link is external) .

[4] “The Origins of EPA,” EPA (Environmental Protection Agency), accessed May 7, 2023, https://www.epa.gov/history/origins-epa (link is external) .

[5] Sanford Levinson et al., Processes of Constitutional Decisionmaking: Cases and Materials (Frederick, MD: Aspen Publishing, 2022), 600-644.

Where is Republic Airport's environmental cleanup?

A map of the Republic Airport area in East Farmingdale showing two proposed projects that require environmental cleanups. Credit: Google Maps

This guest essay reflects the views of Nancy Cypser, a founding member of the Long Island Civic Alliance.

While the state Department of Environmental Conservation and Town of Oyster Bay focus on the industrial legacy of the Grumman-Navy plume in Bethpage, little attention is being paid to another World War II-Cold War legacy on Long Island — the Fairchild Republic plume beneath East Farmingdale.

Despite documented toxins in the soil, multiple development projects are being proposed for the area without any public official asking whether this is wise, much less how to protect the public.

A proposal by Acadia Republic Farmingdale LLC to build a trucking and storage facility has revealed to the community that property across Rt. 110 from Republic Airport south of Conklin Street is a declared state Superfund site. It was aircraft manufacturer Fairchild Republic's contaminant dumping ground for 47 years, earning the sobering local nickname “Blue Lagoon” for its inability to freeze during winter. No dollars have ever been earmarked for its remediation. Rather, it has been proposed that it simply be blacktopped to prevent rainwater from spreading contaminants into the aquifer below the surface.

Diagonally across Rt. 110 and Conklin Street are parcels adjacent to the Long Island Rail Road tracks on which Gov. Kathy Hochul proposes to build housing. She has pledged up to $4 million of federal and state aid to clean up legacy pollution there.

Why is there no cleanup of the Superfund site, but funding for remediating the less-polluted site? Under Hochul's plan, apartments will be built adjacent to the LIRR, but existing homes located close to the “Blue Lagoon” are ignored. Homes on East Carmans Road are 100 feet away from one of the two most toxic areas at the site, as identified by Acadia at a June 10 Babylon Town meeting. In 2015, the DEC estimated the Superfund site cleanup would cost $250 million, then recommended capping. The cost undoubtedly directed that recommendation.

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Which begs the question: If cleaning the Superfund site would have cost $250 million nine years ago, what can be accomplished with the $4 million pledged to clean up the parcels proposed for apartments? The $4 million will barely pay for consultants’ reports.

What's more, additional proposed development of almost 60 acres being considered for Republic Airport will potentially contribute to the known plume that already exists there, while flight operations continue to add pollutants via deicing, use of solvents and gasoline, and aircraft maintenance. Levels of PFAS forever chemicals found in testing wells at the airport greatly exceed older New York State guidelines, as well as newer, tighter federal Environmental Protection Agency guidelines, per a DEC database provided to local civic associations by the Town of Babylon in a Jan. 4, 2021 letter. Other issues related to this construction have been glossed over or ignored, including greatly increased air traffic and noise pollution. More air traffic only increases the possibility of crashes.

Much attention has been paid to addressing contamination in Bethpage, Calverton, and at MacArthur Airport. Why has the Republic Airport area escaped similar scrutiny? The same activity — producing military aircraft — during the same time frame led to the same contamination issues as at those other locations. Yet no one has focused on Republic Airport. It’s time someone did. While an environmental expert speaking for Acadia at the June 10 meeting stated that toxins at the Superfund site have not reached the aquifer, this is the time to make sure that's true and to finally start the Republic cleanup.

This guest essay reflects the views of Nancy Cypser, a founding member of the Long Island Civic Alliance Inc.

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It Takes Too Many Studies for the Government to Do the Right Thing

By Robinson Meyer

Mr. Meyer is a contributing Opinion writer and the founding executive editor of Heatmap , a media company focused on climate change.

In two years, the American Southwest is expected to cut the ribbon on one of the biggest and most environmentally audacious projects in recent history. Consisting of a gigantic wind farm in New Mexico and a transmission line more than 500 miles long running to Arizona, the SunZia project will generate more power than the Hoover Dam and immediately become the Western Hemisphere’s biggest renewable energy project — powerful enough to, at peak, generate 1 percent of America’s electricity needs.

It is a project to celebrate — the kind of ambitious energy endeavor that we should be doing more of. But it’s also a project to fret over, because SunZia has taken far too long to build. Conceived in 2006, the project is now old enough to vote; when it is finally powered on in 2026, it will be nearly old enough to buy a Modelo. SunZia exemplifies how hard it is to build big new power lines in America — how long it takes, how expensive it can be, how bad that is for the planet and how urgently Congress needs to do something about it.

No matter how you look at it, America needs more power lines. If you care about slowing climate change, then building more transmission infrastructure is essential to connecting new wind and solar energy to the power grid. Wind, in particular, is lagging in part because many of the best areas to build — windy places near a grid hookup — already have turbines on them. If you care about developing artificial intelligence, then building more power lines gives you more abundant electricity and a power grid stable enough to support new data centers. And if you’re just a regular person paying your power bill, then more transmission capacity should keep your electricity costs down by allowing places with cheap and plentiful power to sell it to regions where it is more expensive while helping to stave off blackouts. California’s grid avoided blackouts during a 2022 heat wave in part because it is well connected to neighboring grids.

Building more power lines, in other words, is an urgent national need. But over the past decade, construction of long-distance lines has slowed down. The problem is that it’s much harder to get permits for transmission projects than for other types of major infrastructure: Power line developers must go hat in hand to cities, counties, states, the local utility board and many federal agencies to get permission to break ground on projects. After that, they can expect to have to endure seemingly endless rounds of environmental review and permitting litigation. By contrast, developers of a natural gas pipeline essentially need to go to only one federal agency for most of their permits.

One recent lawsuit against SunZia is instructive. In June a federal court rejected one of the last major lawsuits against the project, brought by two Native American tribes, an archaeology group and an environmental group. That lawsuit, in essence, accused the government of failing to fully study the route where SunZia’s transmission line would be built, arguing that even though the government had been studying the project off and on since 2009, it had not done it in the right way. If the government had studied the land correctly, the lawsuit claimed, then it most likely would have changed part of the line’s route.

The judge ultimately dismissed the suit because the time had long passed when the government could alter the route. (The project still faces other challenges in court, and its opponents say they will probably appeal the June ruling.)

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Sampling and analysis of microplastics in the coastal environments of sri lanka: estuaries of the kelani river to mahaoya.

1. Introduction

2. materials and methods, 2.1. study area and sample collection, 2.2. microplastic analysis: an optimized noaa method, 2.2.1. isolation of mps, 2.2.2. identification and characterization of mps, 2.3. validation of methodology and contamination assessment, 2.4. determination of pellet pollution index (ppi), 2.5. data analysis, 3.1. morphology of mps, 3.2. polymer characterization of mps, 3.3. spatial distribution of mps in sampling sites, 3.4. pellet distribution, 3.5. plastic pellet pollution index, 4. discussion, 5. conclusions, author contributions, data availability statement, acknowledgments, conflicts of interest.

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Weerasekara, P.G.Y.W.; De Silva, D.S.M.; De Silva, R.C.L.; Amarathunga, A.A.D.; Bakir, A.; McGoran, A.R.; Sivyer, D.B.; Reeve, C. Sampling and Analysis of Microplastics in the Coastal Environments of Sri Lanka: Estuaries of the Kelani River to Mahaoya. Water 2024 , 16 , 1932. https://doi.org/10.3390/w16131932

Weerasekara PGYW, De Silva DSM, De Silva RCL, Amarathunga AAD, Bakir A, McGoran AR, Sivyer DB, Reeve C. Sampling and Analysis of Microplastics in the Coastal Environments of Sri Lanka: Estuaries of the Kelani River to Mahaoya. Water . 2024; 16(13):1932. https://doi.org/10.3390/w16131932

Weerasekara, P. G. Y. W., D. S. M. De Silva, R. C. L. De Silva, A. A. D. Amarathunga, A. Bakir, A. R. McGoran, D. B. Sivyer, and C. Reeve. 2024. "Sampling and Analysis of Microplastics in the Coastal Environments of Sri Lanka: Estuaries of the Kelani River to Mahaoya" Water 16, no. 13: 1932. https://doi.org/10.3390/w16131932

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