What Are The Negative Effects Of Air Pollution?

Air quality in India and around the world is getting worse day by day. Every day, more and more people face problems due to increased air pollution, but it is the most underestimated threat that affects not only humans but also the environment. It has become global lately, and the saddest thing is most people are unaware of the effects of air pollution. This blog will explain the negative effects of air pollution on humans, animals and plants. 

What Is Air Pollution?

Air pollution refers to the presence of a harmful substance in the atmosphere, leading to adverse effects on both humans and the environment. These particles include gases, particulate matter and chemical compounds emitted from various sources, such as transportation, industrial processes and natural events. The key components of air pollution are as follows- 

• Particulate Matter
• Ground-level Ozone 
• Nitrogen Oxides

The Air Quality Index (AQI) of 50 or below is considered safe, while reading above this is deemed unhealthy as this may cause severe problems like type 2 diabetes, obesity, systemic inflammation, Alzheimer’s, dementia and heart disease. 

The problems with air pollution have increased in recent times. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) reports, air pollution causes nearly 7 million deaths around the globe. It is a surprising and disheartening fact that ninety-nine per cent of humans currently breathe air exceeding WHO’s guidelines. This simply means that the effects of air pollution are more dangerous than ever. 

Effects Of Air Pollution

Air pollution significantly impacts human health, leading to respiratory disease, cardiovascular problems and even premature death. Additionally, the effects of air pollution can also be seen on the environment, including animals and plants. Let’s see how it impacts. 

Impact On Human Health 

Air pollution poses a significant risk to human health, with numerous short and long-term consequences. 

Respiratory Problems

Even short-term exposure to air pollution, particularly fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and ground-level ozone can lead to various respiratory problems, including coughing, wheezing, bronchitis and asthma exacerbation. Over time, these problems can turn into chronic and decrease life span. 

Cardiovascular disease

Air pollution is linked to an increased risk of heart diseases, such as heart attacks, strokes and high blood pressure. The tiny particles in polluted air can enter the bloodstream, causing inflammation and arterial plaque buildup. If talking about the effects of air pollution on humans, cardiovascular diseases are one of them.

Premature Death

Prolonged exposure to polluted air can significantly reduce life expectancy. According to the reports, lots of premature deaths are caused by the negative health effects of air pollution. The chances of lung damage increase, due to which death is caused. 

Low Birth Weight & Development Problems

Pregnant women who are exposed to poor air quality are more likely to give birth to low-weight babies, which can further lead to development issues and long-term health problems in children. 

Cancer

Air pollution can even increase the risk of different types of cancer due to air pollutants, such as benzene and formaldehyde. These particles are cancerogenic and may lead to death. The most common type of cancer caused by the health effects of air pollution is lung. 

Cognitive Decline

Research suggests that high air pollution is linked to cognitive decline and an increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. 

Impact On Environmental Health

The effects of air pollution are extended to the environment. The changes in climate are one of the examples of the effects of air pollution on the environment. Here are a few other impacts. 

Climate Changes

Air Pollution contributes to global warming by releasing greenhouse gasses, such as carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide. These gases trap atmospheric heat, leading to global temperatures and unpredictable weather patterns. 

Acid Rain

Acid rain, which is formed by sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide, can damage the ecosystem, harm aquatic life, plants and animals, and also erode buildings and infrastructure. This is one of the notable effects of air pollution on the environment. 

Deforestation & Crop Damages

Ground-level ozone and particular matter damage vegetation, leading to deforestation and infertility. This, in turn, can lead to disruption of the ecosystem and hamper food supplies, resulting in starvation of humans and animals as well. 

Water Pollution 

The effects of air pollution also result in water pollution, which may be surprising for many. Air pollution settles on water bodies, contaminating them with toxic substances. Polluted water not only harms aquatic life but also humans and plants as water becomes non-drinkable. 

Biodiversity Loss

The disruption of the ecosystem due to air pollution can result in the loss of plant and animal species. Several plants and animal species are no longer alive because of decreased air quality. 

Steps To Mitigate Air Pollution

Air pollution can be prevented by addressing the causes. Here are some steps that you can take as a prevention of air pollution. 

• Avoid private vehicles and encourage the use of public transport. 
• Switch to electric vehicles.
• Use renewable energy sources like solar, wind and hydropower. 
• Plant more trees.
• Reduce industrial emissions.
• Support sustainable agriculture.
• Educate communities about the negative effects of air pollution. 

Air pollution is harmful to all. The effects of air pollution are widespread and pervasive, affecting millions of people worldwide. By taking considerable steps, you can lower the risks of air pollution and protect humans and the environment. Remember that individuals can not do it on their own; it is our collective responsibility to combat this silent threat and secure a cleaner and healthier future for all.