Air Pollution – What are its Main Causes and Contributors

Air Pollution is a term that has become really common while referring to climate change and other problems related to the environment. The scientific definition states that it is a process wherein harmful pollutants are released into the air which is hazardous to humans and other species.

The abbreviation AQI is the Air Quality Index which refers to the number of pollutants present in the air at a particular time. With degrading levels of AQI around the world, it is important for us to know what are exactly the main contributors to air pollution.

• Vehicular Emissions: In urban areas, the number of vehicles is increasing day by day. We can also see a rise in the number of vehicles in the rural areas. Vehicles and other automobiles mostly run on fossil fuels like petrol and diesel. The burnt fuel produces harmful gases which are released into the air and in turn increases the level of pollution. One of the solutions to this problem is the use of electric cars and other electric vehicles. This will significantly reduce the number of vehicular emissions.
• Waste Generation and Deposition: Daily waste generated by humans is dumped at a particular place known as landfills. Landfills become a major source and contributor to pollution. They generate a gas known as methane gas which contributes to the Green House Effect and also can be harmful to humans if left uncontrolled. This is a modern-day problem as the waste generation is increasing day by day with the increasing population in our towns and cities.
• Wildfires and Volcanic Activity: With increasing temperatures in the summers, the incidents of wildfires are also increasing. The spread of wildfires has a very significant effect on pollution levels. With the forests burning, there is a release of dust and harmful gases into the atmosphere. Another contributor is volcanic activity. We all know that whenever a volcanic eruption takes place a large amount of dust, ash, and other harmful gases are released. Even though these two are categorized as natural causes of air pollution, they do have a link with man-made effects. For example, the rise in temperatures that causes wildfires is directly related to the effect of global warming.

To control air pollution and other forms of pollution scientists and other groups are working to find innovative solutions to tackle this problem. But it is also our responsibility that we become responsible citizens and not cause any harm to the environment.