Choking Skies - The Battle Against Air Pollution

Air pollution kills about seven million people worldwide every year. According to WHO data, nine in 10 people breathe air containing high levels of pollutants. Many government authorities are working to monitor air pollution and improve air quality. Daily exposure to high levels of air pollution causes various hazardous health outcomes. Air pollution and increasing AQI levels have adversely impacted the quality of life in many north Indian states, including Delhi NCR. 

What is Air Pollution?

Air pollution is the contamination of the indoor and outdoor environment by any chemical, physical or biological agent. These pollutants modify the natural features of the atmosphere. Common sources of air pollution are household combustion devices, motor vehicles, industrial facilities and wildfires. Major hazardous pollutants, such as carbon monoxide, ozone, nitrogen dioxide and sulfur dioxide, cause respiratory disease. Air pollution and increasing AQI levels have adversely impacted the quality of life in many north Indian states, including Delhi NCR. 

What Does AQI Mean?

The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a measure of how clean or polluted the air around us is. It measures harmful particles like PM2.5, PM10, carbon monoxide, and sulfur dioxide.

• AQI below 50: The air is clean and safe to breathe.
• AQI 51-100: The air quality is okay for most people, but it might bother those who are more sensitive.
• AQI above 300: The air is hazardous and harmful to everyone, regardless of age or health.

In cities like Delhi, Kanpur, and Lucknow, the AQI often exceeds 400 during winter, making the air very unhealthy.  

What Causes Air Pollution?

Air pollution is mainly caused by the release of harmful gases and particles into the atmosphere. These harmful substances come from natural and human activities. Let us discuss some of the common causes of air pollution: 

• Burning of Fossil Fuels: The combustion of fossil fuels releases a large amount of sulphur dioxide into the atmosphere. 
• Automobiles: The pollutant gases from vehicles contribute to urban air pollution.
• Agricultural Activities: Using fertilisers and pesticides in agriculture releases ammonia into the atmosphere, making it dangerous.
• Mining Activities: The dust and chemicals released during the mining process contaminate the surrounding air and deteriorate the worker’s air quality.

How to Control Air Pollution?

There are multiple methods to control air pollution. Here are some common preventive measures to reduce and control air pollution.

• Reduce Driving: It is suggested that people drive less and opt for an alternative method to commute. You can choose biking, public transport, carpooling, or ride-sharing services. 
• Say No to Crackers: Celebrate festivals in eco-friendly ways and avoid bursting too many crackers, which might increase air pollution.
• Use Clean Energy Sources: Transitioning to renewable energy sources like solar, wind, tidal, and geothermal reduces air pollution due to fossil fuel burning.
• Plant More Trees: Support the green city clean city initiatives and plant as many trees as possible. Remember, a greener environment is a safer environment.

How to Reduce Air Pollution?

There are many possible ways to reduce air pollution. By incorporating these actions into your daily life, you can contribute to cleaner air.

• Carpool or Share Rides: Sharing rides and carpooling instead of taking personal vehicles out is a very effective method. This reduces the amount of traffic and pollution simultaneously.
• Limit Use of Household Chemicals: Use eco-friendly products and limit aerosols and other chemical sprays that might contribute to indoor air pollution.
• Implementation of Strict Regulations: The government should enforce strict rules and regulations on the emission standards of vehicles and factories to minimise the release of pollutants. 
• Enhancing Air Quality Monitoring: Industries should be supported to adopt cleaner production methods to reduce air pollution. air pollution. Air filters should be installed in factory outlets to filter pollutants before entering the atmosphere.

What are the Effects of Air Pollution on the Environment?

Air pollution poses a significant threat to environmental health and stability. It affects the ecosystem, wildlife, and overall balance of nature. 

Some of the effects of air pollution on the environment are:

• Air Quality Deterioration: Fine particles (PM2.5, PM10) reduce visibility and create haze, affecting natural landscapes like forests and mountains.
• Acid Rain: Air pollutants like sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides are the major causes of acid rain. The acid rain erodes all the materials it touches.
• Climate Change: Air pollution contributes to unpredictable weather patterns, such as stronger storms and droughts.
• Depletion of the Ozone Layer: Air pollutants like chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and nitrogen oxides damage the ozone layer, increasing harmful UV radiation reaching the Earth.

Read More: Air Pollution: A Leading Cause for Respiratory Diseases

To Conclude

Air pollution and worsening AQI are urgent challenges, especially in cities like Delhi, where the situation is alarming. With AQI levels often exceeding 400 during winter, the air becomes a hazardous mix of toxic pollutants. Breathing in such air is like smoking: Delhi's air now equals 50 cigarettes per day. That’s what you are inhaling in Delhi today. This miserable reality highlights the need for immediate action.

We must reduce emissions, adopt cleaner energy, and prioritise public awareness to combat this. Every small step, from using public transport to planting trees, can help. Let’s act today to secure cleaner, breathable air for a healthier tomorrow.

The impact of air pollution on public health cannot be overstated. Having the right health insurance is vital in such environmental conditions. 

Disclaimer: The above information is for reference purposes only. Kindly consult your general physician for verified medical advice. The health insurance benefits are subject to policy terms and conditions. Refer to your policy documents for more information.