Air pollution is the presence of pollutants in the atmosphere in solid (dust, institution, particles), liquid (acid droplets), and gaseous (carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides) forms at levels that pose a risk to human health, ecosystems, and climate. World World Health Organization (WHO) defines air pollution as an “invisible killer” because it contributes to millions of premature deaths annually. road
Types of Air Pollution
- Ambient (Outdoor) Air Pollution: Originates from vehicle exhausts, industrial emissions, and power plants in urban areas.
- Indoor Air Pollution: Caused by factors such as coal and wood burning, tobacco smoke, cleaning chemicals, and mold in homes.
- Point Source Pollution: Pollution emitted from a single identifiable source such as factory chimneys.
- Non-point Source Pollution: Pollution dispersed over a wide area, such as from traffic or agricultural pesticides.
Main Causes of Air Pollution
1. Fossil Fuel Combustion
- Primary pollutants include sulfur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and carbon monoxide (CO) released from burning coal, oil, and natural gas.
- Thermal power plants are among the largest contributors to air pollution due to their heavy reliance on coal for energy production.
2. Motor Vehicles
- Exhaust emissions, particularly PM2.5 and PM10 particles from diesel vehicles, increase the risk of lung cancer.
- Although leaded gasoline has been largely phased out, older vehicles and low-quality fuels continue to contribute to pollution.
3. Industrial Activities
- Cement, iron and steel, chemical, and petrochemical industries emit heavy metals (lead, mercury, cadmium) and VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds).
- Inadequate filtration from chimneys allows toxic gases to enter the atmosphere.
4. Agriculture and Livestock
- Ammonia (NH₃) emissions from fertilizer use and animal waste contribute to air pollution.
- Pesticides and herbicides can be carried by wind and enter the body through inhalation.
5. Forest Fires and Waste Burning
- Fires release carbon monoxide (CO) and particulate matter (PM), degrading air quality.
- Open-air waste burning releases carcinogenic substances such as dioxins and furans.
Health Effects of Air Pollution
1. Respiratory Diseases
- Triggers chronic conditions such as asthma, COPD, and bronchitis.
- PM2.5 particles penetrate lung tissue and cause inflammation.
2. Cardiovascular Diseases
- Carbon monoxide (CO) reduces the blood’s oxygen-carrying capacity and increases the risk of heart attacks.
- Fine particles (PM2.5) can contribute to arterial hardening (atherosclerosis).
3. Cancer and Neurological Effects
- Diesel exhaust particles are linked to lung and bladder cancer.
- Lead (Pb) exposure in children causes cognitive impairment and behavioral disorders.
4. Effects on Vulnerable Groups
- Children: Impairs lung development and increases asthma risk.
- Elderly: Raises mortality rates due to heart and respiratory diseases.
- Pregnant Women: Increases the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight.
Environmental and Climate Impacts
1. Acid Rain
- Sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) react with water vapor in the atmosphere to form sulfuric acid and nitric acid.
- Reduces soil fertility, contributes to forest decline, and contaminates water sources.
2. Ozone Layer Depletion
- Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) deplete the stratospheric ozone layer, increasing ultraviolet radiation exposure.
3. Global Warming and Climate Change
- Carbon dioxide (CO₂) and methane (CH₄) enhance the greenhouse effect, driving climate change.
- Extreme weather events such as heatwaves, floods, and hurricanes become more frequent and intense.
Methods to Prevent and Reduce Air Pollution
1. Individual Solutions
- Use of public transportation and bicycles
- Energy-efficient LED bulbs and A+++ rated appliances
- Air-purifying plants (areca palm, peace lily)
- N95/FFP2 masks (on days of high pollution)
2. Industrial and Technological Solutions
- Installation of filters and electrostatic precipitators in chimneys
- Adoption of renewable energy sources (solar, wind, hydropower)
- Electric and hybrid vehicle technologies
3. Policies and Regulatory Measures
- European Union’s “Euro 6” emission standards
- Türkiye’s “National Air Quality Monitoring Network”
- Green urban planning (green buildings, bicycle lanes)
