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Essay / Assessing the ecological problem arising from air pollutants
Table of contentsIntroductionEmissions overviewNational trendsPollutant criteria7 steps to stop air pollutionUnderstand where air pollution comes fromReduce your use of automobilesPlant more plantsGo solar energyGet lead freeNever do it again of dust Be warmConclusionIntroductionClean air is the main requirement for maintaining a healthy life for humanity and those that support ecosystems, which in turn affects the human being. Air is 99.9% nitrogen, oxygen, water vapor and inert gases. Humans depend on air. We breathe about 35 pounds. of air per day compared to consuming 3 to 5 lbs. of water and 1 ½ lbs. dry food. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essayOne of the problems we face today is air pollution. Air pollution is a mixture of solid particles and gases present in the air. Car emissions, chemicals from factories, dust, pollen and mold spores can be suspended as particles. Some air pollutants are toxic. Inhaling them increases the risk of having health problems. People with heart or lung diseases, the elderly and children are at great risk due to air pollution. Air pollution is not limited to the outdoors: the air inside buildings can also be polluted and affect your health. In this research paper, we are going to discuss what is air pollution, the cause of air pollution. And also the solution and how we can prevent air pollution. Air pollution is the introduction into the atmosphere of chemicals, particles or biological materials that cause harm or discomfort to humans or other living organisms, or that damage the natural environment. Before industrialization, the ecosystem was able to compensate for any differences in the air through wind, rain, and other acts of nature. However, since industrialization, humans have released more pollutants into the atmosphere than the ecosystem could process. The atmosphere is a dynamic and complex natural gas system that is essential for sustaining life on planet Earth. Stratospheric ozone depletion due to air pollution has long been recognized as a threat to human health as well as terrestrial ecosystems. Emissions OverviewEmission is the term used to describe gases and particles that are released into the air or emitted from various sources. Pollution released into the atmosphere from residential, commercial and industrial facilities. Technically, a broadcast is anything that has been released into the open air. But most often, these are gases released into the air, such as greenhouse gases or emissions from power plants and factories. What are broadcasts? Where do they come from?National trendsThe quantities and types of emissions change every year. These changes are caused by changes in the national economy, industrial activity, technological improvements, traffic, and many other factors. Regulations on air pollution and emissions control also have an effect. The National Air Pollutant Emission Trends report summarizes long-term trends in air pollutant emissions and provides an in-depth analysis of emissions for the current year. The report also discusses assessment methodologies andforecasting emissions.Criteria pollutantsThe United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is primarily concerned with emissions that are or could be harmful to people. The EPA calls this set of major air pollutants "criteria pollutants." The main pollutants are carbon monoxide (CO), lead (Pb), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), ozone (O3), particulate matter (PM) and sulfur dioxide (SO2). There are also a large number of compounds considered dangerous, called air toxics. There are many sources of emissions. These were grouped into four categories: point, mobile, biogenic and superficial. Point sources include things like factories and power plants. Mobile sources include cars and trucks, of course, but also lawns, mowers, airplanes and anything else that moves and pollutes the air. In 1970, the United States Congress passed amendments to the Clean Air Act (CAA) (the CAA was passed in 1963) that launched a national effort to improve the nation's air quality. . Since then, other laws and regulations have been added, including the 1990 amendments to the Clean Air Act. The Clean Air Act (CAA) is the comprehensive federal law that regulates air emissions from stationary and mobile sources. Among other things, this act authorizes the EPA to establish National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) to protect the public health and welfare and to regulate emissions of hazardous air pollutants. One of the purposes of the law was to establish and achieve NAAQS in each state. by 1975 to address risks to public health and welfare posed by certain widespread air pollutants. The establishment of these pollutant standards was coupled with the requirement that States develop State Implementation Plans (SIPs), applicable to appropriate industrial sources within the State, in order to achieve these standards. The law was amended in 1977 and 1990 primarily to set new targets (dates) for achieving the NAAQS, as many areas of the country had failed to meet the deadlines. Section 112 of the Clean Air Act addresses emissions of hazardous air pollutants. Prior to 1990, the CAA had established a risk-based program under which only a few standards were developed. Amendments to the Clean Air Act in 1990 revised Section 112 to first require the publication of technology-based standards for major sources and certain localized sources. “Major sources” are defined as a stationary source or group of stationary sources that emit or are likely to emit 10 tonnes per year or more of a hazardous air pollutant or 25 tonnes per year or more of a combination of pollutants dangerous atmospheric conditions. A “localized source” is any stationary source that is not a major source. For major sources, Section 112 requires EPA to establish emission standards that require the maximum degree of reduction in emissions of hazardous air pollutants. These emission standards are commonly referred to as "maximum achievable control technologies" or "MACT" standards. Eight years after the publication of the technology-based MACT standards for a source category, EPA is required to review these standards to determine whether there is a residual risk for that source category and, if necessary, to revise the standards to address this risk. The Air Act of 1999 (Republic Act No. 8749) outlines measures taken by the government to reduce air pollution and integrate environmental protection into its development plans. It is largely based on the polluter pays principle and other instrumentsmarket-based to promote self-regulation of the population. It sets emissions standards for all motor vehicles and imposes pollutant limits on industry. Emission limit values are set by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources of the Philippines, “Implementation of Rules and Regulations for the Philippine Clean Air Act of 1999”. These rules and regulations apply to all emissions from industrial and other establishments that are potential sources of air pollution. The Pollution Standards Index, or PSI, is a type of air quality index, which is a number used to indicate the level of pollutants in the air. . Initially, the PSI was based on five air pollutants, but since April 1, 2014, it also includes fine particles (PM2.5). In addition to the PSI derived from the average of data collected over the past 24 hours, Singapore also publishes a 3h-PSI. based on PM2.5 concentrations from the last 3 hours. 1-hour PM2.5 concentrations are also published hourly. Besides Singapore, other countries also use air quality indices. However, the calculations used to derive their air quality indices may differ. Different countries also use different names for their indices, such as the Air Quality Index, Air Pollution Index, and Pollution Standards Index. The Air Act requires the EPA to establish National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for six common air pollutants. These common air pollutants (also called “criteria pollutants”) are found throughout the United States. These are particulate pollution (often called particulate matter), photochemical oxidants and ground-level ozone, carbon monoxide, sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides and lead. These pollutants can harm your health and the environment, and cause property damage. The EPA calls these pollutants “criteria” air pollutants because it establishes NAAQS for them based on criteria based on human health and/or the environment (scientific information characterizations). The set of human health-based standards for the protection of public health. is called primary standard. Another set of standards intended to prevent environmental and property damage for the protection of public welfare is called secondary standards. When a criterion pollutant is actually a group of pollutants (e.g., nitrogen oxides), standards are set for key or indicator pollutants within the group (e.g., nitrogen dioxide). Ozone is a gas that forms when nitrogen oxides react with a group. of air pollutants known as “reactive organic substances” in the presence of sunlight. Airborne particles are sometimes called “particulate matter” or “PM.” They include dust, dirt, soot, smoke and liquid droplets. Some particles are large or dark enough to be considered soot or smoke, while others are so small that they can only be detected individually under a microscope. Carbon monoxide is a gas present in the air. High levels of carbon monoxide are toxic to humans and, unfortunately, they cannot detect it because it has no taste or odor and is not visible. Nitrogen dioxide Nitrogen dioxide is a gas with an unpleasant odor. Some nitrogen dioxide is formed naturally in the atmosphere by lightning and some is produced by plants, soil and water. However, only about 1% of the total amount of nitrogen dioxidepresent in the air of our cities is formed in this way. Sulfur dioxide is a gas. It is invisible and gives off an unpleasant, pungent odor. It reacts easily with other substances to form harmful compounds, such as sulfuric acid, sulfurous acid, and sulfate particles. Lead is a naturally occurring heavy metal found in the earth's crust. Lead can be released into soil, air and water through soil erosion, volcanic eruptions, sea spray and bushfires. The natural concentration of lead in the air is less than 0.1 micrograms per cubic meter. Toxic substances in the air are sometimes called “hazardous air pollutants.” Air toxics are gaseous, aerosol or particulate pollutants that are present in the air in low concentrations with characteristics such as toxicity or persistence so as to constitute a danger to human, plant or animal life. Are another class of pollutants. They come from sources such as microbiological contamination, for example mold, animal and human skin as well as the remains and droppings of harmful organisms such as cockroaches. Biological pollutants can be airborne and have a significant impact on indoor air quality. The proportion of the world's population living in urban areas has increased steadily in recent decades, with the largest recent increases occurring in low- and middle-income countries. country. Much of this urbanization is taking place in urban areas with populations between 1 and 5 million, but megacities, with populations of 10 million or more, are significant contributors to this trend and face unique challenges related to to human health. Globally, air pollution is the most significant environmental health risk, and levels of particulate matter (PM) and most other pollutants harmful to health are higher in urban areas than in rural areas due to the concentration of the main sources of emissions. The large number of pollution sources concentrated in an area with dense housing, traffic and industry can lead to high pollution levels, especially if pollution control lags behind city growth .Concerns about air pollution in the world's major cities have been reflected in numerous monitoring campaigns and reports published over the past decades. With growing evidence of the health effects of air pollution, particularly airborne particles, measured in mass concentrations of particles smaller than 10 (or 2.5) micrometers (PM10 or PM2.5 ), more recent air quality assessments have provided better and more relevant information. information on the scale and severity of the problem of urban air pollution in developing countries. Based on these data, and supported by an econometric model to estimate PM2.5 levels in all cities with more than 100,000 inhabitants, the first estimate of the global burden of disease attributable to air pollution urban air was carried out in 2004. This analysis estimated 800,000 premature deaths per year are attributable to particulate matter, more than two-thirds of which occur in rapidly developing Asian economies. Assessments of the state of air pollution and health impacts were followed by a more detailed analysis of the sources and distribution of pollution, as well as activities aimed at reducing pollution in megacities. They noted that lessons learned in countriesdeveloped to reduce their pollution problems could bring progress in other megacities around the world. ://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sSC5EXT_uhI/VGgjWWfUEVI/AAAAAAAAABm8/fnlCOSglSBQ/s1600/Capture.PNGThe increasing trend of human civilization moving away from rural to urban areas in order to have a better life raises the importance of ensuring that the world's current and future megacities have the cleanest air possible.7 Steps to End Air PollutionIn today's complex world, with dangerous chemicals in With everything we buy, electronic waste filling our landfills and the exponential increase in the number of gasoline-powered automobiles on the highways, the idea of being able to reduce air pollution is not easy to imagine. Beyond smog, air quality is linked to everything from childhood asthma to global warming. Turning a blind eye to the problem of air pollution endangers not only our own health, but also that of the planet for generations to come. However, there is still time to make a difference. With these seven steps, you can start improving the air quality in your home and community now. And it makes everyone breathe a little easier. Understanding Where Air Pollution Comes From According to the federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), there are six main causes of air pollution in the United States. These are ground-level ozone, particulate matter, lead, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides and carbon monoxide. Although most people have heard of carbon monoxide, lead, and particulate matter, they might be surprised to learn that the leading source of air pollution today is ground-level ozone. Unlike the natural ozone layer that surrounds the earth and helps regulate temperature by protecting it from the sun's harmful rays, ground-level ozone forms when nitrogen oxides mix with volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The ensuing chemical reaction emits ground-level ozone which can cause many health problems. Upper respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis and emphysema are all linked to ground-level ozone. So where does this chemical reaction occur? Anywhere you have gasoline fumes, car exhaust, large storage of chemical agents, and emissions from factories or utilities. Reduce these key elements and you can reduce the amount of ground-level ozone you are exposed to. Reduce your use of automobilesAutomobiles do more than just contribute to ground-level ozone. Making gasoline requires the burning of coal and oil, leading to an increase in sulfur dioxides, another of the six leading causes of air pollution. The EPA says oil refineries are key producers of sulfur dioxide and spending more time behind the wheel of a car means more air pollution for everyone to breathe. Although it may not be possible to completely eliminate your automobile use, try to consolidate errands and purchases to avoid making multiple trips to the same location. If you live near a commuter rail line, commit to taking the train at least one day a week to work. Looking for a new set of wheels? Why not buy a hybrid. These excellent vehicles combine electric power and fuel energy to get better mileage and many produce near-zero emissions. Plant more plants NASA recently discovered that manyHousehold plants, such as the Gerbera daisy, peace lily, and English ivy, are instrumental in removing carbon monoxide from the air. Working much like the human liver, these common houseplants filter harmful chemicals and dangerous compounds from the air, absorbing toxins through tiny pores in their leaves and "digesting" pollution through their stems, their roots and through the soil. Natural air filters in your home or office can significantly reduce indoor air pollution and help eliminate recurring colds and respiratory problems. According to the NASA study, other varieties useful for purifying the air are bamboo, Chinese evergreen palm, and all Dracaena trees. Opt for solar energy. Electricity may seem like an eco-friendly way to heat your home, but the VOCs generated by power plants are among the highest. in all forms of manufacturing. Nitrogen oxides are also a byproduct of electric utilities, and as we learned in Step 1, the combination of the two can lead to a deadly increase in ground-level ozone. Utility companies produce more sulfur dioxide than oil plants, and the amount of other resources required to operate plants makes electric utilities a less than optimal choice when looking to "power" your house. Today's solar panels are unique in terms of design and installation. While previous generation panels were large and unsightly perched on top of your roof, modern versions are colorful, install directly into tiles, and can usually generate enough electricity to power your home, heat your hot water and have enough to resell it to the public service. company.Get the Lead OutThe dangers of lead-based paint have been known since around the 1970s, however, recent environmental problems with imported toys have everyone rethinking the use of lead in common household products. Leaded fuels were phased out after the 1990 amendment to the federal Clean Air Act, making trash burning, battery storage, and utility leaching the primary sources of household lead pollution . Have your gas and electric appliances checked to make sure there are no leaks. in the lines or short circuits in the wiring. Never burn trash or use your fireplace to dispose of excess trash. If you have old batteries lying around, call your county's environmental health department and ask where you can legally dispose of them. Most importantly, check the label of painted items such as furniture, decorative items and children's toys. If you are unsure whether the item contains lead-based paint, contact the manufacturer and ask. If they are unable to tell you, return the item for a refund or get rid of it altogether. Never dust again. Well, not really. But be careful what type of dust you stir up. Much of the thick brown haze seen over large urban areas is a combination of dust from construction sites, factory smoke and car emissions mixed together. While you can't control the number of cars on the road or the types of factories operating, you can monitor your land for dry patches and do your part to eliminate dust. This is particularly important if you,.