Air Pollution and Its Effects on Health
Air pollution is one of the most important environmental problems of our time. Especially in big cities, increasing population density, unplanned urbanization and industrialization negatively affect air quality. This situation also brings health problems related to air pollution. The decrease in air quality causes an increase in respiratory diseases, heart diseases and many chronic diseases. Various policies need to be developed to combat air pollution in our country and around the world.
Causes of Air Pollution
Among the main causes of air pollution are, fossil fuel use, industrial production, traffic density ve Forest fires The increase in motor vehicles, especially in big cities, leads to the release of exhaust gases into the atmosphere. Smoke and chemical substances coming out of the chimneys of industrial facilities are other factors that increase air pollution. In addition, natural events can also negatively affect air quality.
Air Pollution and PM2.5
An important indicator of air pollution PM2.5, are fine particulate matter found in the air. These particles pose serious threats to human health. According to reports, Bangladesh became the most polluted country in the world in 2023 with 79,9 micrograms of PM2.5 per cubic meter. Turkey ranks 44th in this ranking, reaching 20,3 micrograms of PM2.5 per cubic meter. It is stated that 92% of the population in Turkey breathes polluted air.
Air Quality in Istanbul
In addition to being the most populous city in Turkey, Istanbul also has serious problems in terms of air pollution. While Istanbul's annual PM2021 average was 2.5 micrograms in 23,56, this figure increased to 2022 micrograms in 23,76. Istanbulites were exposed to an average of 2022 micrograms of PM38,41 pollution throughout 10. PM10 levels are 2,5 times the WHO guideline value.
Sources of Air Pollution
Among the main sources of air pollution traffic, residential heating ve industrial activities Studies conducted in Istanbul show that emissions from traffic negatively affect air quality. Traffic has been identified as the main source of air pollution, especially in areas such as Esenyurt, Mecidiyeköy and Sultangazi. In addition, quarries in these areas are also an important source of pollution.
Effect of Meteorological Conditions on Air Quality
Meteorological conditions are one of the important factors affecting air quality. During periods of high pressure, it is difficult for pollutants to mix into the atmosphere, which causes air pollution at ground level to increase. Dense fog events around the Bosphorus Strait cause further pollution as a result of high pressure. Therefore, making air quality predictions based on meteorological data is an important step in combating air pollution.
Effects on Health
Air pollution is a serious health threat. Exposure to fine particles such as PM2.5 and PM10 can lead to respiratory diseases, asthma, bronchitis and heart disease. In addition, air pollution can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of various types of cancer. Children, the elderly and individuals with chronic diseases are especially sensitive to the negative effects of air pollution.
Methods to Combat Air Pollution
There are various methods to combat air pollution. Public transport increasing the use of, electric vehicles to be preferred and reducing traffic congestion Measures such as these can contribute to improving air quality. In addition, individuals can protect their health by following the air quality index and wearing masks outside in bad weather conditions. It is also extremely important for local governments to develop and implement various projects to improve air quality.
Conclusion
Air pollution is a major problem today. The negative effects of this situation on health are an issue that requires awareness. There are steps that need to be taken at both individual and societal levels to combat air pollution. Therefore, we need to make continuous efforts to improve air quality.
