By: Nitya Kattamuri

Do you know that air pollution in the UK has been responsible for causing 40,000 early deaths every year? All of you are probably aware of what air pollution is, including its harmful effects. But in short, it is “the presence in or introduction into the air of a substance which has harmful or poisonous effects.” One source states how “[p]articulate emissions in the UK come from: 38% from burning wood and coal in domestic open fires and solid fuel stoves. 12% from road transport. 13% from solvent use and industrial processes.” 

Moving on from its causes to its effects, air pollution can range in the level of harm it induces in others. Starting from causing irritation in the eyes, throat, etc., and bringing about small illnesses, it can develop respiratory infections, heart disease, stroke, and lung cancer in others. One source even states, “Air pollution is considered…the…factor of some diseases such as asthma, lung cancer, ventricular hypertrophy, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases, psychological complications, autism, retinopathy, fetal growth, and low birth weight.”

• “75% of recorded UK air pollution zones are above the legal limit. Studies show that this will soon increase to 100%.” 
• “There is one car for every two people living in England. What’s more, vehicles’ CO2 emissions account for 13% of the total UK’s pollution.” 
• “Rearing livestock in the UK is the highest pollutant at 50%.” This means animal husbandry in and of itself in the UK, is a major contributor to their pollution, almost a shocking 50%.

What you can do to prevent air pollution:

1. When purchasing a new car, consider one that is the most efficient, lowest-polluting vehicle. 
2. Walk or ride a bike when possible.
3. Organize and condense errands into one trip. 
4. When driving, accelerate gradually and obey the speed limit. 
5. Drive less, particularly on days with unhealthful air quality.
6. Maintain your vehicle and keep the tires properly inflated. 

Sources:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/air-quality-explaining-air-pollution/air-quality-explaining-air-pollution-at-a-glance#:~:text=Particulate%20emissions%20in%20the%20UK,solvent%20use%20and%20industrial%20processes

https://www.pca.state.mn.us/air/air-quality-and-you-health-effects-air-pollution#:~:text=Air%20pollution%20also%20increases%20the,health%20effects%20from%20air%20pollution.

https://www.wri.org/insights/how-reduce-plastic-and-other-ocean-pollution-simultaneously

https://www.wri.org/insights/opportunities-reduce-emissions-beef-production

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/17-simple-ways-prevent-air-pollution-home/