What Are the Most Dangerous Threats to Air Quality?
Earth Talk
Scientific American
September 29, 2014
Full article: http://www.scientificamerican.com/article/what-are-the-most-dangerous-threats-to-air-quality/
Topic: Air Pollution
Summary:
The main threats to local air quality across the U.S. are smog and particulate pollution. According to the American Lung Association (ALA), almost half of all Americans live in countries where air pollution routinely reaches unhealthy levels and thus can make people sick or worsen pre-existing health conditions. The sources of air pollution are mobile transportations, industrial factories and power plants. When smog gases come in contact with sunlight, they form ozone smog which can damage the cardiovascular system and cause other health problems. Particulate pollution contributes to cardiovascular issues, cancers, and reproductive problems. Fortunately, the Clean Air Act allowed 68% of air pollutants to be reduce. As an individual, you can improve your local air quality by driving less, using less electricity, etc.
Reflection:
I chose this article because I wanted to know if the United States could potentially have severe air pollution similar to China’s air pollution. The biggest contributor to air pollution and global warming is the burning of fossils. We need to think of a better means of fuel that will drive our economy while protecting the environment. Although the air pollution is not as dramatic as it used to be before the Clean Air Act, I believe that the government should implement stricter laws to reduce any kind of pollution and lead the economy on a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable path.
Earth Talk
Scientific American
September 29, 2014
Full article: http://www.scientificamerican.com/article/what-are-the-most-dangerous-threats-to-air-quality/
Topic: Air Pollution
Summary:
The main threats to local air quality across the U.S. are smog and particulate pollution. According to the American Lung Association (ALA), almost half of all Americans live in countries where air pollution routinely reaches unhealthy levels and thus can make people sick or worsen pre-existing health conditions. The sources of air pollution are mobile transportations, industrial factories and power plants. When smog gases come in contact with sunlight, they form ozone smog which can damage the cardiovascular system and cause other health problems. Particulate pollution contributes to cardiovascular issues, cancers, and reproductive problems. Fortunately, the Clean Air Act allowed 68% of air pollutants to be reduce. As an individual, you can improve your local air quality by driving less, using less electricity, etc.
Reflection:
I chose this article because I wanted to know if the United States could potentially have severe air pollution similar to China’s air pollution. The biggest contributor to air pollution and global warming is the burning of fossils. We need to think of a better means of fuel that will drive our economy while protecting the environment. Although the air pollution is not as dramatic as it used to be before the Clean Air Act, I believe that the government should implement stricter laws to reduce any kind of pollution and lead the economy on a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable path.