How We Can Reduce Air Pollution

Air pollution is an incredibly dangerous occurrence which is threatening our health and the health of our planet. The WHO estimates that air pollution kills 7 million people every year, while 9 out of 10 people breathe air that exceeds their guideline limits. We take a look at how to reduce air pollution and create a safer and healthier environment.

What is air pollution?

Air pollution refers to the harmful particles present in the atmosphere, from both natural and man-made sources, that might negatively affect the health of humans, animals, plants and the planet in general.

Air pollution is closely linked to climate change, because many of the sources of greenhouse gas emissions that are contributing to the warming of the planet are also causing air pollution, such as the burning of fossil fuels.

Personal strategies for reducing air pollution

We can all do our bit to reduce the air pollution which is damaging our environment and our health. Below are some strategies for air pollution reduction.

1) Cutting down use of your car

A lot of air pollution is caused by car exhaust fumes so one of the simplest ways to reduce it is to cut down on the use of your car. Ask yourself if you really need to drive on a certain occasion – could you perhaps use public transport instead, or even share a lift with a friend?

You can also give your backing to and support things like the Ultra Low Emissions Zone (ULEZ) in London which has been introduced to try and reduce the extremely high levels of air pollution in central London. Most vehicles, including cars and vans, need to meet the ULEZ emissions standards or their drivers must pay a daily charge to drive within the zone.

2) Embrace cycling/walking

As an alternative to using your car for short or medium journeys, you should try embracing cycling and walking. While it might take a little longer, it’s a very pleasant way to travel and it will also help you keep healthy!

3) Review your energy supplier and consider switching

One of the main causes of air pollution is, of course, fossil fuels. Energy efficiency needs to be improved, but we also need to increase the supply of renewable energy. You can take a look at your current energy supplier to see how much of their electricity and gas come from renewable sources compared with other potentially greener options on the market.

4) Cut down on meat and dairy intake

This may seem like a strange area to target in relation to air pollution but research has shown that agriculture is a major source of air pollution, killing an estimated 17,900 people in the US every year. Indeed, action to reduce emissions from farming was included in the UK government’s 2019 Clean Air Strategy due to the fact that it contributes greatly to air pollution.

5) Support green space initiatives in your local area

One of the ways we can absorb existing air pollution is through creating more green spaces, such as parks and gardens, in urban environments that are heavily polluted. Supporting local initiatives and campaigns in your area to create more green spaces will help to improve air quality and create a nicer place for everyone to live!

The wider picture

Our individuals actions do matter, but there is no denying that much of the air pollution that is created is a result of large companies. However, you are not necessarily powerless against their actions.

You have the power to campaign for local and national policies. For example, the London ULEZ we mentioned earlier can be replicated in other parts of the world that would benefit from a reduction in vehicle traffic.

You can also raise awareness of the companies who are major air polluters, and campaign for them to change their behaviours. Creating and signing petitions is a great way to do this, as well as connecting with people online and raising awareness there.

Here at SearchScene, we support a range of charities who are working to combat air pollution and climate change. We do this by donating 95% of the profits we make through advertising.