Air pollution and its destructive impact on health

This assignment provides an in-depth analysis of the causes, effects and solutions to the problem of air pollution and its destructive impact on health. It will also critically evaluate the effectiveness of current policy measures in tackling this problem.

Air pollution is a serious global problem which affects the health of both individuals and the environment. Air pollution occurs when harmful substances are released into the atmosphere, such as fumes from factories or car exhausts.

Destructive impact of air pollution on health:

Air pollution has a range of deleterious effects on human health, including respiratory illnesses, heart disease and cancer.

- Respiratory illnesses: Air pollution can cause a number of respiratory illnesses, such as asthma, bronchitis and emphysema. These illnesses are caused by the inhalation of harmful substances, such as particulate matter or ozone. People with respiratory conditions are particularly vulnerable to the effects of air pollution, as their lungs are already weakened.

- Heart disease: Air pollution can also cause heart disease, as it can damage the lining of the arteries. This damage can lead to an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes. In addition, air pollution can also cause high blood pressure and irregular heartbeats.

- Cancer: Air pollution has been linked to a number of different types of cancer, including lung cancer, breast cancer and leukaemia. This is thought to be due to the inhalation of harmful substances, such as benzene or formaldehyde.

The elderly, young children and those with pre-existing medical conditions are particularly vulnerable to the effects of air pollution. In addition, people who live in urban areas are generally exposed to higher levels of air pollution than those who live in rural areas.

Current policy measures

A number of policy measures have been introduced in an attempt to reduce the impact of air pollution.

- Emissions trading schemes: Emissions trading schemes are designed to incentivise businesses to reduce their emissions of pollutants. Under these schemes, businesses are given allowances for the emissions they are allowed to produce. If they exceed their allowance, they must purchase credits from other businesses who have not used all of their allowance.

- Regulation of power plants: Power plants are a major source of air pollution. As such, there are a number of regulations in place that aim to reduce the emissions from these plants. For example, the Clean Air Act regulates the emissions from coal-fired power plants.

- Fuel efficiency standards: Fuel efficiency standards are designed to improve the fuel economy of vehicles. This helps to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases and other pollutants.

- Renewable energy targets: Renewable energy targets are designed to increase the use of renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power. This helps to reduce the reliance on fossil fuels, which are a major source of air pollution.

Individual action

There are a number of things that individuals can do to help reduce air pollution.

- Using public transport: One way to reduce air pollution is to use public transport instead of driving. This helps to reduce the number of vehicles on the road, and therefore the emissions they produce.

- Cycling or walking: Another way to reduce air pollution is to cycle or walk instead of taking the car. This is not only good for the environment, but also good for your health!

- Avoiding idling: When a car is idling, it emits harmful pollutants. As such, it is important to avoid idling where possible. If you are stopped in traffic, turn off the engine.

- Replacing old appliances: Old appliances, such as fridges and freezers, can be major sources of air pollution. Replacing them with newer, more efficient models can help to reduce emissions.

- Buying local produce: Transporting food long distances can generate a lot of pollution. Buying local produce helps to reduce these emissions.

- Planting trees: Trees help to improve air quality by absorbing pollutants from the air. Planting trees can therefore help to reduce air pollution.