The European Environment Agency (EEA) has identified the culprit responsible for nearly half a million deaths in 2021 – and it’s in the air we breathe.
What happened?
Researchers in the European Economic Area mainly blame fine particulate matter, the respirable particles known as PM2.5. According to The Guardian, 253,000 of these “premature deaths” were attributed to PM2.5 levels exceeding the World Health Organization’s (WHO) maximum guidance limits.
More deaths were found to be caused by elevated levels of nitrogen dioxide and ozone.
“The data released today by the European Economic Area reminds us that air pollution remains the number one environmental health issue,” EU Environment Commissioner Virginijus Sinkevičius told the Guardian.
Why is air pollution a concern?
Many people forget that saving the planet means saving ourselves. Air pollution directly affects the environment and all plants, animals and humans that live in it.
Often called the “silent killer,” air pollution is one of the biggest health emergencies since tobacco, leading to increased risks of everything from respiratory infections and heart disease to asthma and cancer, according to the World Health Organization.
A Guardian investigation this year found that 98% of Europeans were breathing air that violated World Health Organization guidelines.
The World Health Organization states that this is true for nearly the entire global population, with air pollution causing 6.7 million premature deaths each year.
What measures are being taken to combat air pollution?
Over the years, knowledge has become our power in identifying ways to improve air quality.
The Clean Air Act requires the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to regulate and monitor toxic gases released into the atmosphere.
In recent years, the EPA has taken steps to minimize pollution from large industrial facilities and transportation, two significant contributors to the health crisis we face today.
Switching to clean energy sources such as solar and wind power is critical to reducing air-polluting gases.
Sometimes it’s hard to know where to start with fixing problems at home, but it’s easier than you think.
Recycling, saving and repurposing products are great ways to make a change. You can also purchase an air purifier to purify your living space.
Switching to public transportation and walking whenever possible instead of using gas-powered vehicles are other low-effort ways to combat air pollution. If you’re in the market for a new car, consider upgrading to an electric vehicle.
“The good news is that clean air policies are working,” Sinkevicius told the Guardian. “But we need to do better to further reduce pollution levels.”
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