Double trouble

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Double trouble

Thursday, 07 July 2022 | Pioneer

Double trouble

Peak summer conditions increase pollution levels  and risk to environment, human health, economy

As the weather turns scorching and the wind speed picks up, pollution levels in the summer are supposed to be lower than in the winter. However, pollutants in the former case are more easily dispersed in the atmosphere thanks to the clear skies. The increase in dust particles brought on by building activity and vehicle traffic is the main cause of summertime pollution, experts aver. This summer, a case in point is that India not only faced increased heat but also more air pollution. A new report released on Wednesday stated that the Capital experienced increased summertime air pollution in 2022 compared to 2021, with the city’s particulate matter levels significantly exceeding the normal limits. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) confirmed that the allowed levels for PM 2.5 and PM 10 in Delhi during the four summer months (March, April, May and June) this year were five times higher, according to an analysis by NCAP Tracker, a project of environmental organisations Climate Trends and Respirer Living Sciences. Interestingly, even abroad, in the Los Angeles region for example, the air quality significantly declined and remained dangerous after hundreds of Fourth of July fireworks displays lit up the skies there.

Due to the fireworks’ high amounts of particulate matter and metal air pollutants, the South Coast Air Quality Management District issued a particle advisory for most of Southern California, from Los Angeles to the Coachella Valley. The South Coast Air Basin’s fine particulate matter levels on July 4 and July 5 are routinely among the worst of the year. In addition to the fine particles already existing in the basin, mostly brought on by vehicles, fugitive dust and industrial pollutants, fireworks also contribute to smoke and combustion products. It has been well established that the summertime and a warmer environment can affect air quality in a number of ways, with a variety of negative effects on human health and economy. Extreme weather conditions, as well as both natural and man-made pollution, run the risk of worsening our air quality and having a variety of negative health effects as our planet’s climate changes. Fortunately, we have some control. Environmental insights with a health focus help us see the year-round effects of invisible air pollution. With the correct knowledge, we can enable individuals to take responsibility for the air they breathe.

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