The Chrysler Building in New York stands in an orange glow with the words «Air Pollution» in front of it. The photo was taken in June last year, when smoke from fires that were already ravaging Canada had spread all the way to the Big Apple, polluting the air further with exhaust fumes. In its edition dated July 26, the American magazine Science looks at recent developments in air pollution monitoring and policies, as well as the discoveries of its effects on health. «For many people around the world, air pollution is a consequence of desired but inequitable development and progress,» notes the introduction to this special issue. It’s not just smoke from fires that makes the air unbreathable.
The production of electricity, large-scale agriculture, modern construction methods, transportation, and manufacturing are all factors that have degraded air quality, the authors list, even though they have had other benefits elsewhere. Increased risk of osteoporosis. In addition to the latest scientific research on the subject, the scientific weekly highlights two popular articles on the effects of air pollution on health. In one of them, journalist Roberto González, based in Mexico, describes how communities living near mining waste in Brazil, Chile, or Mexico breathe air laden with potentially toxic dust. «The health effects are starting to be felt,» he writes, drawing on a range of scientific studies.
In the other article, a report from India, journalist Sanket Jain focuses on osteoporosis, a «silent» skeletal disease, he writes, because it is often not recognized until a person suffers a major injury. However, an increasing number of studies show a correlation between this disease and the quality of the air we breathe. In India, the air quality is particularly poor. The fight against pollution is crucial for a sustainable future. It is essential to address the sources of air pollution such as industrial activities, transportation, and agriculture to protect public health and the environment. Governments and industries must work together to implement effective policies and technologies to reduce air pollution levels and improve air quality for everyone. In addition to health issues, air pollution also has significant environmental impacts, including climate change, acid rain, and damage to ecosystems. By taking action to reduce air pollution, we can create a cleaner and healthier world for current and future generations.