Clean Breathing

As our planet continues to be polluted we are seeing the negative effects of overconsumption, a lack of clean water, harmful waste, deforestation, and unethical work practices, but how often are we thinking about what we most need to survive: air.

The topic we are all perhaps most familiar with are the health implications. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution is responsible for an estimated 7 million premature deaths annually worldwide. To put this into perspective, that's roughly equivalent to the entire population of Hong Kong succumbing prematurely each year. Furthermore, a study published in The Lancet Planetary Health journal revealed that exposure to air pollution increases the risk of developing respiratory diseases, cardiovascular ailments, and even cancer, contributing to a substantial burden on global healthcare systems. According to the National Weather Service, a good air quality range is between 0-50 on the AQI scale, and with 72 of the world’s most populated ratings already falling into moderate to unhealthy on the AQI scale, a lack of clean air is much more common than we may think. You can find where your city ranks by looking on the weather app and finding air quality.

Let's also consider the economic toll of poor air quality. The World Bank estimates that air pollution costs the global economy over $5 trillion annually in welfare losses, with low- and middle-income countries bearing the brunt of this financial burden. In addition,

a report by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) highlights the detrimental impact of air pollution on labor productivity, citing that workers exposed to polluted air experience reduced cognitive function and diminished work performance.

Turning our gaze to the environmental realm, the statistics paint a stark picture of degradation. Atmospheric pollutants, such as nitrogen oxides (NOx) and sulfur dioxide (SO2), contribute to the formation of smog and acid rain, posing a grave threat to ecosystems. In fact, a study published in the journal Nature Communications estimates that air pollution is responsible for the loss of over 2 million hectares of forest annually, exacerbating biodiversity loss and ecological imbalance.

Despite these sobering statistics, there is still hope. Through concerted efforts and evidence-based policy interventions, significant strides have been made in mitigating air pollution. For instance, the adoption of cleaner energy sources and the implementation of stringent emission standards have yielded tangible improvements in air quality in numerous regions globally. Moreover, advancements in technology, such as catalytic converters and particulate filters, have contributed to reducing emissions from vehicular sources, further bolstering air quality management efforts. There are also a couple steps we can take ourselves to ensure our own quality of air remains as pure as possible:

1. Indoor Air Quality Management: Since we spend a significant portion of our time indoors, it's crucial to maintain good indoor air quality. This can be achieved by regularly cleaning and vacuuming to remove dust, pet dander, and other allergens. Additionally, using air purifiers with HEPA filters can help capture airborne particles and improve indoor air quality.

2. Ventilation: Proper ventilation is essential for circulating fresh air indoors and reducing the buildup of indoor pollutants. Open windows and doors whenever possible to promote air exchange. Additionally, consider installing exhaust fans in areas prone to moisture buildup, such as bathrooms and kitchens, to prevent the growth of mold and mildew.

3. Reduce Chemical Exposures: Many household products, such as cleaning agents, paints, and air fresheners, emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can contribute to indoor air pollution. Opt for eco-friendly, low-VOC alternatives whenever possible, and ensure proper ventilation when using chemical products.

4. Monitor Outdoor Air Quality: Stay informed about outdoor air quality conditions in your area by accessing local air quality reports or using smartphone apps that provide real-time air quality data. Limit outdoor activities during days with poor air quality, particularly during times of high pollution or allergen levels.

The journey towards clean air is far from over, and collective action is crucial. Individuals, communities, governments, and industries must collaborate to enact meaningful change. Whether through advocating for sustainable urban planning, investing in renewable energy infrastructure, or promoting public transportation initiatives, each stakeholder plays a pivotal role in safeguarding our shared right to clean air.

Clean air is not merely a matter of public health or environmental responsibility but a fundamental necessity for human well-being and planetary sustainability. Armed with the insights gleaned from statistics and data, let us forge ahead with determination and resolve, striving towards a future where every breath we take is clean.

Thank you for reading,

Breath