#58 Air Pollution

100+ways
Written By Heal The Planet

Are you aware that air pollution kills an estimated 7 million people annually? Or, that over 40% of Americans are currently at risk of disease and premature death due to air pollution? Air pollution is not only detrimental to human health, but it is also detrimental to all life on our planet. By reducing air pollution levels, we can reduce the instances of disease from stroke, heart disease, lung cancer – and both chronic and acute respiratory diseases – including asthma.

Our Air is Toxic:

Air pollution is the introduction of chemicals, particulates, or biological materials into our atmosphere which causes discomfort, disease, or death to humans, damages other vital living organisms- such as food crops – and destroys our natural environment. Air pollution has been a growing concern over the last decade and it is closely linked to climate change through fossil fuel combustion. As our planet continues to increase in temperature, and our population grows rapidly, the air we breathe will become increasingly more polluted if we do not take the necessary steps in curving our pollution rates.

Air Pollution Facts:

  • 92% of the world’s population lives in communities with polluted air.

  • Over 80% of urban residents are exposed to air pollution that exceeds the World Health Organization’s healthy limits.

  • 1 in 9 deaths worldwide is attributed to air pollution.

  • Household air pollution kills 4 million people a year.

  • Worldwide, up to 14% of children aged from 5-18 years have asthma that is at least partially caused by air pollution.

  • Air pollution is the number one cause of acid rain.

  • Studies show that pollution in the air is contributing to birth defects, reproductive failure and disease in animals.

  • 111 million people in the US live in counties that do not meet the National Ambient Air Quality Standards.

  • According to the EPA, levels of indoor air pollution are typically far worse than outdoor air pollution levels.

 

How Can I Make An Impact ?

Action 1: Global Goodness

  • Reduce your drive time. The reduction in transportation emissions can help reduce the amount of GHG emissions you are releasing. Catch up with family, friend, or coworker while carpooling, or opt for public transportation.

  • Conserve energy. Whether it is at home, work or school, use mindfulness in your energy consumption.

Action 2: Planet Protector

  • All of Action 1

  • Inform others by sharing with them the realities of air pollution. The more we know as a collective the bigger impact we can make.

  • Avoid burning foliage, grass, leaves and other materials that are harmful to the air.

  • Get energy-efficient appliances. A good tip: always look for the Energy Star label.

Action 3: Earth Angel

  • All of Action 1 & 2

  • Lobby Congress to increased regulations on air quality in the public and corporate sectors.

  • Read about the Paris Agreement so you can be better informed of the current regulations.

  • Choose to be an Ambassador for Change, and always Spread Love and Spread Light.

 
 
Heal The Planet
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