ORLANDO, Fla. (IVANHOE NEWSWIRE) – According to the Environmental Defense Fund, air pollution is now the greatest environmental risk to premature death. So, what is the impact of this danger on your health?
Air pollution is not just an ugly sight. It is responsible for more than six million premature deaths every year! Children, the elderly, minorities and low-income communities are most vulnerable to the effects of the environment on health.
“That’s how the fossil fuel industry works. They exploit people so they can make a profit,” said Isha Clarke with Youth vs. Apocalypse.
“Young people are the ones who have really lived with air pollution, droughts, wildfires,” added Aniya Butler of Youth Vs. Apocalypse.
A recent study found that children exposed to air pollution are more likely to contract community-acquired pneumonia and to be hospitalized longer. A study was done in 2020 that linked wildfire smoke to more COVID-19 cases and deaths.
Other research has shown that air pollution can increase the risk of lung cancer, asthma, and emphysema. It has also been linked to cardiovascular disease, neurological disorders and other cancers.
Under the Clean Air Act, the EPA works with state, local, and tribal governments to reduce air pollution. Simple ways to help include carpooling or bicycling to work, conserving energy where possible, using environmentally friendly paints, and purchasing appliances or supplies. equipment bearing an Energy Star label. Small steps that can add up.
“The goal is to change the world. It is to change the society we live in,” Isha said.
Research suggests that long-term exposure to certain pollutants increases the risk of emphysema more than smoking a pack of cigarettes a day. Studies show that air pollution can also impact mental health, productivity, and even stock market performance.
Click here to report a typo.
Copyright 2022 WAFB. All rights reserved.