Breathe Easy: How to Fight Air Pollution

Did you know that almost everyone on Earth is exposed to harmful air at some point? Nearly 99% of us are breathing in air that doesn't meet the clean air standards set by the World Health Organization. That's right, even when the sky looks clear, the air might not be safe. This isn't just something happening somewhere far away but rather a reality in many cities, like New Delhi, Dhaka, Bangkok, and Jakarta. But it's not all doom and gloom. There are things we can do to protect ourselves. First, let's understand what we're up against. Bad air comes from burning things, like coal, gas, and diesel for energy, or crops and trees for farming. Gases like nitrogen dioxide and sulfur dioxide are also major culprits, along with tiny particles called particulate matter. These can sneak into our lungs and cause serious harm. These pollutants aren't just around us but also inside our homes. Common activities like cooking and even burning incense can pollute the air we breathe. The problem is so severe that it kills millions of people prematurely every year. And this pollution affects more than just our lungs; it makes us more susceptible to heart attacks and strokes which is why people who are most at risk are often the elderly, or those with pre-existing health issues. But how can you tell if the air is dangerous? Unfortunately, it's not as simple as looking out the window. A lot of countries have air monitors, and apps that track air quality levels but it can be confusing to make sense of the numbers. Luckily, many places have an Air Quality Index (AQI) that uses colors and numbers to show how clean the air is. But be aware that different countries have different standards, so what's considered "safe" in one place might not be in another. So, what can we do to stay safe? The best thing is to limit your exposure to bad air. If the AQI is high, try to stay indoors and wear a mask when you go outside. But remember, not everyone can avoid going out, especially those who work or live outside. That's where masks and indoor air purifiers come in. They can help, but they aren't perfect. Air purifiers work best in small spaces and can be expensive. And let's not forget about the kids. Polluted air can seriously harm children's growth, lungs, and even their ability to think clearly. According to UNICEF, more than 500 million children in East Asia and the Pacific breathe unhealthy air every day. But it's not just about protecting ourselves. We need to push for change to reduce pollution and protect our planet. What is usually overlooked is the importance of public awareness and advocating for stricter regulations and better enforcement of existing laws. We need to hold governments and industries accountable for the air they produce.