Direct Effects of Air Pollution

Air pollution has a direct effect on both human health and the environment. Smog, acid rain and climate change are among the wide array of problems that humans and their environment can suffer when air isn't clean.

Smog--Human Health

• One of the direct effects of air pollution is smog, which is formed by the emissions given off by factories, refineries and cars. Smog contains ozone, which, while good at high elevations, is dangerous at ground level.

  Smog effects the respiratory system when it is inhaled in large quantities. First, it can reduce the functioning of the lung by limiting the oxygen capacity. Second, it has been shown to aggravate asthma, forcing some asthmatics to seek immediate medical attention. Finally, it can damage and inflame the lining of the lungs. There is ongoing research into the other effects of smog such as aggravating bronchitis and emphysema.

  Certain people are more at risk then others. Children are more susceptible than adults due to their respiratory system still developing. Adults who spend considerable time outdoors are more at risk than those who work indoors (See Reference 1).

Acid Rain--Environment

• Acid rain is also caused by emissions, mainly via fossil fuel combustion. The hazardous components in these emissions are sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide. In the atmosphere, these mix with water and oxygen. They become heavy and return to Earth's surface in the form of acid rain.

  Acid rain effects the environment in many different ways. The effects are seen primarily in surface water such as lakes and rivers. When streams and lakes become acidic, the entire surrounding ecosystem falters. Populations of fish and other aquatic life are harmed or even killed. Slight differences in the pH levels are enough to prevent eggs from hatching. This adversely effects the animals who feed on the fish by hindering their food supply as well as the organisms that fish feed on by causing overpopulation.

Climate Change

• Of the current environmental concerns, none is more critical than climate change. The release of greenhouse gases into the air prevents the sun's heat and radiation from escaping and causes the temperature to increase. These greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, are released into the environment by the same way as the harmful substances in smog and acid rain, through emissions.

  The most obvious effect is increased temperatures. This can adversely effect the elderly and people with cardio-respiratory problems. Of major concern is poorer populations who reside in buildings that are not sufficiently prepared to handle higher temperatures. Another effect is the melting of the polar ice caps, causing rising ocean levels and reducing the amount of livable land.