The Effects of Air Pollution by Industries

Air pollution is hazardous chemicals and toxic matter released into the Earth's atmosphere. While there are numerous causes of air pollution, industries are considered a prime source. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that industrial pollution is responsible for 50 percent of the air pollution in the United States. There are several serious environmental and health effects associated with air pollution by industries.

Global Warming

• Global warming is one of the most controversial aspects in environmental science. Nevertheless, global warming is considered by most experts in the field of air pollution as the most serious hazard caused by industries. Global warming is caused by greenhouse gases. These are combined gases such as methane, carbon dioxide, CH4 and CO2. Greenhouse gases cause a rise in the atmosphere's temperature-causing global warming. Global warming can cause an increase in water levels of seas, lakes and rivers when high temperatures melt glaciers and snow caps from mountains. In addition, global warming causes serious health conditions due to diseases such as the plague, cholera, malaria, Lyme disease and dengue fever.

Ozone Layer

• The ozone layer helps protect life from dangerous exposure to radiation from UV rays. Industries release compounds containing carbon, fluorine and chlorinepollutants (CFC) in everyday items such as aerosol cans, refrigerator coolants and packing foam which harm the sustainability of the ozone layer. Hence, air pollution can cause several health problems in humans such as skin cancer.

Acid Rain

• Acid rain is caused when nitrogen and sulphuric gases are released into the atmosphere. These gases react with water vapors to create aggressive gases like nitric acid and sulphuric acid. Acid rain has various environmental and health dangers. It can cause the erosion of buildings, create acidic soil in agriculture and decrease the growth of plants and animals. Acid rain can also cause skin disorders, cancer and death.

Respiratory Disorders

• Air pollution from industries can even enter your home and work place. Carbon monoxide gases released from industrial air pollution often causes respiratory disorders and death in humans. For example, people may be diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma and bronchitis. Additionally, air pollution from industrial emissions can lead to occupational diseases such as asbestosis and pneumoconiosis.