Did you know that particle pollution, also known as particulate matter, is one of the leading causes of poor air quality and a significant threat to human health worldwide?
According to recent studies, exposure to particle pollution is responsible for millions of deaths every year, making it a silent but deadly killer. The tiny airborne particles come from a variety of sources, such as industrial activities, transportation, and natural sources, and can have severe effects on both the environment and human health.
Particle pollution, or particulate matter (PM), refers to tiny airborne particles that can harm human health and the environment. These particles come in different sizes and shapes, ranging from coarse dust to fine soot, and can be found indoors and outdoors.
But what are the sources of daily exposure to particulate matter?
Sources of Particle Pollution:
The different sources of particle pollution and their impact on the environment and human health:
Although the major source of PM particles may be outdoors, it also contributes to indoor PM. Indoor particulate matter originates from indoor activities, which include cooking, fireplaces, smoking, fuel combustion for heating, human activities, and burning incense.
Pollutants that cause Particle Pollution:
What particle pollution does to our body?
Particle pollution can have several adverse effects on human health. The following are some of the health risks associated with exposure to particulate pollution:
Effects of Particle Pollution on the Environment:
Particle pollution can also have several adverse effects on the environment. These include:
Recent News About Particle Pollution:
According to a recent report published in The Lancet, over 330,000 people in India died in 2020 due to exposure to particulate matter resulting from fossil fuel combustion. The study also found that the mortality rate from exposure to particle pollution was highest in Asia, followed by Africa. With a high reliance on fuels, average household concentrations of particulate matter exceeded the World Health Organisation (WHO) recommendation by 27-fold nationally and 35-fold in rural homes, said the report.
The report highlights the need for urgent action to address the issue, which is a major public health challenge in India.
Government Actions to Reduce Particle Pollution:
Governments around the world have taken several actions to reduce particle pollution. For example:
Ways to Limit Exposure to Particulate Pollution:
Conclusion:
Particle pollution is a severe issue that requires immediate action from individuals and governments alike. While we may not have control over some of the sources of particulate pollution, such as industrial activities and transportation, we can take steps to reduce our exposure to it. By installing emerging green technologies like air purifiers, using public transportation or cycling, and supporting government policies prioritizing clean air, we can play a vital role in reducing particle pollution and protecting our health and the environment.
#CleanAirForAll
References:
https://www.cdc.gov/air/particulate_matter.html
https://www.epa.gov/pmcourse/what-particle-pollution
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fendo.2018.00680/full
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/ambient-(outdoor)-air-quality-and-health