Air quality in danger due to climate change is a concern not only for those living in struggling areas, but also for those who rely on environmentally-friendly products and services.
Since the release of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate change’s latest report last year, there has been increasing concern about the impact of global warming on the air quality in cities around the world. Although there is still much that remains unknown, one thing is clear: adaptation and research must continue to ensure that current levels of clean air are maintained. With that in mind, here are some things you can do to protect your health and the environment.
Changing bad habits. The report discusses the need to reduce emissions as much as possible. However, it makes clear that even with mitigation efforts, there will be times when emissions surpass safe limits. Emissions that exceed safe limits can cause major damage to the environment, and could increase the risk of exposure. In such times, a person could consider switching to energy options that come from clean, renewable sources, which can be harnessed or recycled easily.
Being careful about what’s breathed in the air. This is particularly important if one is exposed to particular types of air pollution. Emissions from cars, for example, contribute to air quality in many ways, since they can pollute the air by combining with other pollutants. Moreover, the fuel exhaust from power sourced places pollute the air because emissions can be absorbed through the skin and respiratory systems.
Change a car’s air conditioning settings to those optimized for specific locations and time of day. This will ensure that one receives optimal temperatures regardless the season. One could also consider the possibility that the temperatures could change dramatically during the night hours.
Do what you can to save energy. It can be surprisingly easy to do so. For example, consider having ceiling fans installed in rooms that don’t ordinarily need them, such as the bedroom or dens. On sunny days when the air temperature is high, open windows by opening them slightly and pulling the curtains to let fresh air in. These simple changes can have a big effect on energy bills, even if they aren’t able to do much in reversing the current state of climate change.
But every little bit counts.
Changing light bulbs. Some people have lighting equipped with UV filters. Others may use lamps with lower wattage in order to reduce their energy use. The best way to save on home electricity bill and keep air quality at a good level is by switching light bulbs to energy-efficient lamps and using dimmers on lights to control the amount of light that shines in rooms. Even if it costs a little more for light fixtures, it will be money well spent in the long run.
Protecting health and the environment. Air pollution contains some dangerous ingredients that contribute to climate change. Organic pollutants, for instance, become airborne due to nearby pollution and contain health risks. The most common types of air contaminants are indoor air pollutants and greenhouse gases. Air quality experts recommend getting a reliable air quality monitor to help check whether a home’s air quality is at risk due to such things.
One may also consider making heating and cooling systems more efficient to keep down energy consumption. Energy efficient appliances consume less electricity, meaning that the air conditioner or heater will have to work less while letting in more fresh air into the home. This, in turn, means that that home air quality is better regulated and air pollutants are less likely to be trapped inside filters that these appliances tend to use to keep the air clean and safe.
Provided by Antonio Westley
Disclaimer: This article is meant to be seen as an overview of this subject and not a reflection of viewpoints or opinions as nothing is definitive. So, make sure to do your research and feel free to use this information at your own discretion.
