Air pollution

🌍 Air Pollution – Notes

🔹 Definition

Air pollution refers to the presence of harmful substances (pollutants) in the atmosphere that cause damage to living beings, property, and the environment.

🔹 Major Causes of Air Pollution

1. Industrial Emissions – smoke, chemical gases, particulate matter.

2. Vehicle Emissions – carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, hydrocarbons. 🚗💨

3. Burning of Fossil Fuels – coal, oil, natural gas.

4. Agricultural Activities – pesticides, fertilizers, stubble burning. 🌾🔥

5. Household Activities – burning of wood, kerosene, and solid fuels.

6. Natural Causes – volcanic eruptions 🌋, forest fires, dust storms.

🔹 Major Air Pollutants

Carbon Monoxide (CO) – harmful to the respiratory system.

Sulphur Dioxide (SO₂) – causes acid rain.

Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) – smog and respiratory problems.

Particulate Matter (PM2.5, PM10) – causes lung diseases.

Ozone (O₃) – harmful at ground level.

Lead & Heavy Metals – toxic to health.

🔹 Effects of Air Pollution

🌱 On Environment:

Global warming & climate change 🌡️

Ozone layer depletion 🕳️

Acid rain damaging crops, forests, and buildings 🌳🏛️

Loss of biodiversity

👩‍⚕️ On Human Health:

Respiratory diseases (asthma, bronchitis, lung cancer)

Cardiovascular problems

Eye irritation & skin diseases

Reduced immunity and life expectancy

🔹 Control Measures

1. At Individual Level

Use public transport, carpooling, cycling 🚴

Plant more trees 🌳

Use energy-efficient appliances

Avoid burning garbage

2. At Government Level

Strict emission standards for vehicles & industries 🚦

Promotion of renewable energy sources (solar, wind) ☀️💨

Ban on stubble burning

Creating awareness among people

🔹 Conclusion

Air pollution is one of the greatest challenges of modern times. Collective efforts of individuals, society, and government can help ensure clean air for a healthy future. 🌍💚

📖 Quote: “The Earth is what we all have in common; keeping the air clean is keeping life alive.” 🌿✨