Category: Pollution

Pollution has become a prominent problem in the modern world, affecting both individuals and the state of the planet as a whole. Air pollution, in particular, remains among the most pressing problems of today’s age, bringing with it certain systematic issues and concerns. The United States of America is an industrial powerhouse, a powerful nation that devoted much of its time to the growth and development of the petrochemical industry. Subsequently, the need to evaluate the state of the environment becomes more apparent. The state of Louisiana is among the top five in total carbon oxide emissions in the recent years, with 211 million metric tons being recorded in 2018. Previous research from both climate specialists and medical professionals reveals that the levels of air pollution within an area are linked with development of respiratory disease. There is a positive correlation between petrochemical emissions in an area and the likelihood of its inhabitants to fall ill. In order to effectively design public policy, fully understand the healthcare and wellness implications of pollution, and oppose it on a legislative level, it is necessary to do more research. An examination focusing on the state of Louisiana in particular will be conductive towards realizing the unique problems on the state, and furthering the discussion. The main purpose of this research is to determine the significance of corporate CO2 emissions in causing respiratory disease. A quantitative survey will be used to interview participants living near areas of high and low petrochemical pollution, with the subsequent results being compared.

The Research Question(S) and/or Hypotheses That Will Be Addressed

1. Does living in areas of high petrochemical pollution concentration cause people to develop respiratory disease more frequently?
2. How is the prevalence of respiratory disease distributed among the Louisianan population
3. Have the rates of respiratory disease changed within the most recent decades?
4. How do the residents of the Louisiana state perceive the effects of pollution on their respiratory health?
5. What percentage of the population is aware of the implications petrochemical pollution has on their quality of life?
6. Do residents consider air pollution to be a significant part of their quality of life?
7. Is there incentive to stop pollution or regulate petrochemical emissions among the public?

A Description of Research Design and Methods, (Including Data Collection Strategies, A Description of the Sample, Variables (Or Information) Collected, Analysis Plan)

In order to conduct this research, a survey method will be utilized. Surveys allow to gauge and understand the public opinion, while also gathering the necessary data to conduct research. For this work, the intended audience are residents of Louisiana who have lived in their home for at least 5 years. This period of time will allow data regarding respiratory health to be reliably connected with the respondent’s living conditions, and rule out the effects of moving. People of all genders from 18 to 75 years old will be included in the survey. Exclusion criteria includes working in a hazardous environment or high pollution workplaces, as well as having a family history of respiratory disease. The survey will be distributed over recorded phone calls and the internet. According to Louisiana US census statistics, the number of adults in the state between the ages of 18 and 75 is around 3073849 (La demographic statistics). Taking this number, the appropriate sample size for this research, taking an average confidence level of 95% and a 5% margin error, would be 385 respondents.

A survey for 385 respondents within the Louisianan population, with an percentage of respondents from each parish will be completed. The proposed survey questions include:

• What is your age?
• Do you work in a hazardous/pollution heavy environment?
• Have you been diagnosed with a respiratory disease within your time living in your home?
• Have you experienced respiratory problems/concerns?
• Does your family have a history of respiratory illness?
• Do you think the air quality in your area is good?
• Do you think petrochemical pollutions have an effect on the public health?
• Do you think petrochemical pollutions have an effect on your health?
• Are you supportive or regulatory legislation to limit petrochemical pollution?
• Are you supportive of environmental action?

Implications for Public Policy, Practice, and Theory

Public Policy

Discussions about the environment and air pollution are directly connected with concerns of governance, lawmaking and politics. Companies working in industries responsible for high levels of pollution work in a pursuit of profit, growth and potential business benefits. However, environmental concerns and other potential implications of their actions are often ignored. In order to ensure that companies act within the constraints of society without harming people that work for them, public policy adjustments are necessary. If the results of this research showcase that petrochemical emissions cause a significant number of respiratory illnesses in Louisiana residents, both local and state governments have a responsibility of addressing this problem. Emission limits, adoption of better waste management practices or strong financial incentives against polluting can all come into prominence as a result of completing this research.

Theory and Practice

In regards to academic theory and practice, this work may be conductive towards further environmental pollution research, and adoption of similar surveying methods in other parts of the country. The practice of using surveys has been previously explored, but the combination of phone and internet surveying, coupled with a specific set of questions can be useful to scholars in similar fields of research. If the methodology outlined within this paper is found to be sufficient, including its potential limitations or caveats, this will be a productive opportunity to promote discussion. Alternatively, if there are significant problems with the results of research, data collection methods or any other parts of the process, the academic community can engage in discussions that lead to the promotion of knowledge within the field.

Reference

Infoplease. (n.d.). La demographic statistics. Infoplease.

The articles by Carson and Williams are focused on what may well be the greatest danger of the modern world: environmental pollution that causes drastic changes in nature and people’s organisms. While the authors describe different aspects of contamination, they agree that unless humanity starts treating the world with more respect, soon habitable land will be impossible to find, and no natural beauty will survive for humans to admire.

Carson’s article is focused on describing the detrimental effect of pesticides on living organisms. The writer introduces the subject by way of a beautiful illustration of a town full of blossoms, singing birds, and freshwater. Soon, however, the picture changes: “a strange blight crept over the area” and “everywhere was a shadow of death” (Carson). Plants and animals die, and the spring is characterized as silent, “without voices”; no pollination takes place, and consequently, no fruit emerges (Carson). The author explains that the damaging alterations have become possible due to the use of a large number of pesticides in the area.

The dramatic effect of the story is intensified by the author’s meticulous choice of descriptive words. Carson boldly declares that “no witchcraft” of “enemy action” has “silenced the rebirth of new life.” She emphasizes that only humans are to blame for the severe damage. The same thought can be traced to William’s story, in which the writer analyzes the detrimental impact of nuclear bomb testing on people’s health.

Through the prism of her family history, Williams shows the big picture in terms of America’s attitude toward its people during the 1950s (608). Williams’s story is full of bitter irony that she employs to describe the tremendous losses of her family and many other families living in the neighborhood. The author’s family endured so many instances of breast cancer that she even came up with the title “The Clan of One-Breasted Women” (Williams 607). The author became so accustomed to the deadly disease that she admitted that “cancer was part of life” (Williams 7). The reason why so many people suffered was the nuclear testing performed in the area.

Williams was appalled by the reaction of the government, which said, “despite burns, blisters, and nausea,” that nothing should interfere with the series of tests (608). Like Carson, Williams urges people to take care of the world in which they live before it is too late. Both readings raise a vital question regarding the peaceful co-existence of scientific and technological advancements and humans.

Marine

While globalization has improved many aspects of people’s lives, it is evident that the environmental toll taken by ships carrying people and goods worldwide is high. Consequently, beneficial cargo owners (importers) also play an important role in ensuring the shipping industry continues to thrive while simultaneously reducing its environmental impact (Oturakci & Dagsuyu, 2020). Emissions of greenhouse gases, air pollution, the release of ballast water, aquatic invasive species, and oil and chemical leaks are only some of the environmental problems that marine transportation continues to cause. During transshipment or shipbreaking activities, sediment contamination of ports is obvious due to the release of dry bulk consignment, rubbish, marine noise pollution, cargo vessel on marine megafauna, fear of ship grounding or collapsing, and broad deposit contamination.

Seafarers can significantly reduce their ship’s carbon footprint by contributing to more efficient ship operations. Owners of vessels should instill a culture of energy management amongst crew members and gradually introduce pollution-reducing technologies as the needs of society evolve. Turning off unused lights, switching to halogen or sodium vapor lamps, making better use of the ship’s laundry, and turning off auxiliary pumps (ballast, fire, lubricating oil, camshaft pumps) are just a few of the many ways to cut the ship’s energy use. Effective management of the ship’s engine and deck gear is crucial for avoiding wasteful use of fuel (Oturakci & Dagsuyu, 2020). To maximize productivity and minimize breakdowns, sailors must be familiar with the proper beginning and ending procedures for any machinery on board.

Rail

Air pollution, noise, global warming, greenhouse gas emissions, water pollution, and ecosystem loss and fragmentation are some environmental problems that the expansion of rail transportation could exacerbate. Rail travel serves a vital purpose, but at the cost of soil contamination by toxic heavy metals (Göçmen & Erol, 2018). Heavy metal contamination has devastating effects on ecosystems particularly vulnerable to its effects, such as a reduction in soil enzyme activities.

During railway expansion, there are numerous options for lowering carbon dioxide emissions. Emissions from building sites and accompanying transports can be greatly reduced by the efficient use of construction equipment and vehicles. Cutting down on construction equipment idling time, reviewing idle limitation restrictions, and implementing other operational techniques could help reduce emissions (Göçmen & Erol, 2018). Using suitable equipment for the job, avoiding inefficiently large machines, performing regular maintenance, and providing effective training for individuals who operate mobile equipment are helpful initiatives.

Road

Major contributors to transportation-related air pollution include fossil fuel-powered roads, vehicles, trains, and buses. Emissions cause air pollution at every stage of their lifecycle, which has negative consequences on both people and the environment. Pollutants can also originate from the production and disposal of vehicles, as well as the refining and distribution of fuels (Aminzadegan et al., 2022). It is important to implement measures like switching to more fuel-efficient vehicles, boosting overall fuel efficiency, and cutting down on unnecessary idling to lessen the environmental impact of road travel. Using less single-occupant automobiles and fewer miles driven vehicles, as well as increasing public transit usage, reduces traffic congestion and greenhouse gas emissions. Increasing the adoption and implementation of transportation methods limit or eliminate human-caused emissions of greenhouse gases across all relevant industries, working together to do so. France, Japan, Norway, and Switzerland are some of the countries that have passed laws specifically to combat global warming. The Norwegian law tries to cut carbon dioxide emissions by introducing a carbon tax, while the French, Japanese, and Swiss laws build a national approach to tackling global warming.

References

Aminzadegan, S., Shahriari, M., Mehranfar, F., & Abramović, B. (2022). Factors affecting the emission of pollutants in different types of transportation: A literature review. Energy Reports, 8, 2508-2529. Web.

Göçmen, E., & Erol, R. (2018). The problem of sustainable intermodal transportation: A case study of an international logistics company, Turkey. Sustainability, 10(11), 1-16. Web.

Oturakci, M., & Dagsuyu, C. (2020). Integrated environmental risk assessment approach for transportation modes. Human and Ecological Risk Assessment: An International Journal, 26(2), 384-393. Web.

Environmental Hormones

Environmental estrogen is the scholarly nomenclature that refers to any group of artificial substances that exist in the environment. If and when they get into the system of a human being, they function in a closely related way to estrogen, which generally refers to sex hormones in the female species. They are also called environmental hormones. They are known to interfere with the normal hormonal secretion and also mess up with the assimilation of food, which in turn damages reproductive activities.

Consequences of Ozone Depletion and Acid Rain

Depletion of the ozone layer has consequences. Chief among these are the skin cancer menace due to ultraviolet radiation, which is absorbed by DNA. Others include a high rate of lung related diseases and eye cataracts, which can cause blindness. Depletion is also known to decrease crop yields and also causes disruption of the balance in ecology in the oceans.

Acid rains, on the other hand, cause damage to structures like buildings. The rains are known to corrode marble and metals, cause respiratory diseases in human beings and increase the acidity of the soil. Acid rains also make lakes acidic and thus affecting the ecology of such areas.

Food Chain Contamination

This refers to the process by which contaminants find their way to the environment. Such contaminants include chemicals, metals like lead, among others. For instance, directing effluence to lakes will contaminate fish, which is taken as food by the surrounding population, affecting their health.

Sources and Types of Water Pollution

There are three types of water pollution. These include point-source pollution, nonpoint-source pollution, and transboundary pollution. Point-source pollution, as the name suggests, is caused when pollution originates at a certain point. Pollution caused by the oil spill is, for instance, point-source pollution. Nonpoint-source is caused by many types of pollution affecting water in the same locality. Transboundary pollution affects the environment distances away from the origin. Sources can either be classified as direct or indirect. Examples of direct include waste from factories. Indirect would include seepage of chemicals like fertilizers.

Ultraviolet Radiation

This refers to a type of energy that travels through space. It belongs to a class of radiation called electromagnetic radiation. Others in this class include light and heat. To distinguish each of the radiations, the issue of wavelength vis-à-vis the energy comes to play. Ultraviolet radiation is more energetic with an equally short wavelength. The sun is the chief source of ultraviolet radiation/rays.

Details of the Last Ice Age and Warming Period

The last ice age took place over ten thousand years ago. Before then, ice-covered around one-third of the earth’s surface. During the initial ice age, the earth warmed up and what followed was the melting of ice. This lead to the formation of glaciers as sheets of ice covered valleys and rivers. In the last ice age, the sheets melted, and this left lakes. Ice that remained can only be found on top of mountains. The warming period, also known as the interglacial periods, are the periods between ice ages. They last between 15,000 and 20,000 years. In other words, we are in a warming period.

Climate Factors

These are factors that influence the climate. They include wind patterns, topography, latitude, and angle of the sun rays and surface of the earth, among others.

Introduction

Carbon offsets are a method of combatting environmental pollution. In essence, it refers to the practice of reducing the negative impact of one’s CO2 emissions by reducing or removing it in another area. For example, using a car or a plane to ride across countries is detrimental to the environment.

Discussion

A person wishing to remain carbon neutral, then, could donate their money to an organization capable of producing the same amount of environmental benefits as their trip did harm. The organized process of carbon offsetting usually involves planting trees in various areas of the globe that need it (Schmidt, 2009). This principle aims to make human action more environmentally neutral, while also allowing people to live their regular lives freely. It is also beneficial to businesses, who may find practices of sustainability or environmental concerns difficult to manage. However, there are significant problems associated with this method of environmentalism.

In particular, it is connected with one’s need to rely on third parties or specific organizations in order to create climate benefits. As shown by research, carbon offset organizations can make mistakes in the way they calculate carbon emission reductions/removals. An analysis completed using California’s data is an example of the biggest flaw of the carbon offset system. Instead of improving the climate of the planet or facilitating better environmental conditions in forest areas, many organizations are incentivized to over-report their success (Badgley et al., 2021).

Conclusion

I think that using other organizations or projects to offset an entity’s carbon footprint avoids the main goal of any present environmental protection efforts – sustainability. A focus should be made on allowing organizations and individuals to develop pathways to ensure they do not harm the planet. This includes using recyclable materials and introducing carbon-free transport. Comprehensive change is necessary to truly fight climate change (Liu & Li, 2011). The sole use of carbon offsets only takes away from the global effort to change our approach toward carbon emissions.

References

Badgley, G., Freeman, J., Hamman, J. J., Haya, B., Trugman, A. T., Anderegg, W. R., & Cullenward, D. (2021). Systematic over-crediting in California’s forest carbon offsets program. Global Change Biology, 28(14). Web.

Liu, W., & Li, H. (2011). Improving energy consumption structure: A comprehensive assessment of fossil energy subsidies reform in China.Energy Policy, 39(7), 4134-4143. Web.

Schmidt, C. W. (2009). Carbon offsets: Growing pains in a growing market.Environmental Health Perspectives, 117(2). Web.

Air pollution occurs when gaseous substances are released into the atmosphere. Industrialization is the major source of air pollution. An alteration in the gaseous composition of the atmosphere is called air pollution. Air pollution is caused by the release of gaseous elements into the atmosphere (Schwartz 7). The gaseous substances contaminate the atmosphere and causes harm to living and nonliving things.

The chemical composition of the atmosphere can be seen below:

The composition table shows that gaseous elements can combine to cause adverse effect on humans and the atmosphere. Gaseous emissions from the atmosphere can cause short and long-term hazards. Air pollutants can be divided into primary and secondary pollutants.

Classification of Air Pollutants

Air pollutants can be classified into two types namely: Primary and secondary pollutants

Primary Pollutants: Gaseous substances released into the atmosphere are called primary pollutants. These substances have direct access to the atmosphere and can cause great danger to human health and the environment. When these gases are released in large quantities they combine to form a harmful product. These substances include compounds of carbon, Nitrogenous compounds, compounds of sulphur, compounds of halogen and solid particles (koop 4).

Secondary Pollutants: Primary pollutants react to form secondary pollutants. The accumulation of gaseous elements produces secondary air pollutants. Secondary pollutants include acidic oxides which are formed from the release of nitrogen oxides.

Characteristics of Air pollutants

1. Particles of matter: Pollutants in this category consist of residues from bush burning, construction sites, combustion engines, dust particles, soot or smoke and heavy metals. When this particulate suspensions are inhaled there cause harm to the respiratory system.
2. Nitrogen oxides: Oxides of nitrogen are released from heavy-duty engines. Accumulation and deposition of this substance can damage the ozone layer and affect the visibility of the environment.
3. Oxides of sulphur: The emission of this substance produces a pungent smell. Oxides of sulphur are released into the atmosphere during gas flaring. Sulphur dioxide cause irritation of the skin and affects the lungs.
4. Oxides of carbon: This gas is not visible; it is a colorless gas and has an adverse effect on human health. Oxides of carbon are produced from the combustion engines. High volumes of this substance can cause brain damage and immediate death.
5. Depleted Ozone: when gaseous substances are released into the atmosphere, they cause depletion of the ozone layer. Ozone depletion is caused by the emission of primary pollutants into the atmosphere. The ozone becomes depleted and causes damage to the central nervous system.
6. Lead particles: The burning of crude oil produces huge deposits of lead. The accumulation of this pollutant in the atmosphere can cause severe damage to the reproductive organs, lungs and the central nervous system.
7. Toxic and radioactive pollutants: Toxic pollutants are found in products containing gasoline. Toxic substances increase the mortality rate in children and affect the female reproductive organs. Radioactive pollutants can cause breast cancer and other respiratory diseases (Wai 4).

The table below shows a list of some common pollutants and their sources

Effects of Air Pollution on Human Health

Previous literatures indicate that air pollution is a major source of health problems globally (Daly and Zannetti 3). Air pollution has short and long term effect; it affects the climate and human beings. Depletion of the ozone layer is a long-term effect of air pollution. Health workers believe that the rate of gaseous emission has increased geometrically, this account for the health hazards and death of children.

Children are more vulnerable to air pollutants because the accumulated chemical substance would reduce the metabolic rate in the body (Daly and Zannetti 5). Health workers argue that the high rate of infant mortality and abnormalities is caused by the accumulation of gaseous substances in the atmosphere. Children have been diagnosed with lung cancer, a trend that began with industrialization. There are many other ailments associated with air pollution.

The table below summarizes the effects of air pollution on human health.

The table below summarizes the effects of air pollutants on the environment

Effect of Air Pollutants in the Environment

Finally, air pollution must be controlled in order to guarantee a safe environment. Burning of fuels must be controlled and proper care must be taken to ensure proper management of these air pollutants.

Works Cited

Daly, Arter and Zannetti Paker 2007, Introduction to Air Pollution. PDF file. Web.

Koop, Gary 2002, Measuring the Health Cost of Air Pollution. PDF file. Web.

Schwartz, Joel 2006, The Health Effects of Air Pollution. Web.

Wai, Wong 2008, Air Pollution and Health Studies in China: A Literature Review. Web.

Introduction

By definition, haze is an atmospheric aerosol that cumulatively concentrates to a visible status. The aggregating particles are minute and hardly invisible; however are able to cause scene distortion and limit the visual range.

According to the manual of codes by the World Meteorological Organization, haze develop from volcanic ash, smoke, dust, mist, sand, steam fog, ice fog as well as snow. Often, haze forms in relatively dry air when dust and smoke particles accumulate.

Laws and Regulations

Atmospheric emissions are the precursors for most haze pollutants. The federal government passed into law the ambient air quality guidelines in 1971 via the Clean Air Act (now CEPA). The legislation is the oldest of its kind and empowers the national government to initiate programs relating to air pollution assessment; set air quality objectives and set standards linked to the source.

Chronologically, the provincial governments were the first to introduce air quality regulations there after the federal government followed suit. Ontario was the first to describe air pollution standards in 1963, under the Air Pollution Control Act.

The legislation sets the maximum concentrations for 13 substances released by stationary sources of pollution. Other provinces that have applied regulation on the point of impingement concentrations are Manitoba, Newfoundland and Labrador.

Recent regulations that relate to air quality were provided through the introduction of National Ambient Air Quality Objectives (NAAQOs) and Canada Wide Standards at provincial and federal government levels. Often, provincial governments have air standards and objectives that reflect the national ones.

NAAQOs objectives set targets on risk towards key biological receptors; while, the Canadian Wide Standards put into perspective relatively more substances and metrics of assessments.

Additionally, there is a proposal to introduce emission standards through the Canadian Ambient Air Quality Standards, Air Management Zones and Base-Level Industrial Standards. The Canadian Wide Standards set limits for particulate matter (PM2.5) and ozone at averages of 30μg/m³ over a 24-hour and 65 ppb over an 8-hour.

Towards the end of 2010, the US and Canada agreed under the Ozone Annex to lower trans-boundary smog. This led to a 44% reduction of NO_x. Both Quebec and Ontario that lie within the Industrial heartlands of Canada were set to have emission cuts.

By 2007, the annual cap of 39 kilotons of NO_x for central and southern Ontario and 5 kilotons for Quebec. The Canadian government has provided money to support electricity generation through fossil fuel.

The Motor Vehicle Safety Act (under the CEPA) sets emission limits for motor vehicles for different pollutant such as CO, NO_X as well as hydrocarbons. Policies on vehicle emission in Canada and the US depend on technological advances to lower pollutant release such as the CAF standards of Canada.

The realization that electric plants among other industrial establishments in North America and Europe were leading emitters of precursors of pollutants like sulfur dioxide motivated the signing of multilateral agreements.

The US and Canada have made an agreement with Europe such as the Convention on Long-Range Trans-boundary Air Pollution established in 1979 to limit the trans-boundary release of acid rain precursors. Thereafter, US and Canada have not signed the succeeding protocols agreed in Europe on the same.

The British introduced the Clean Air Act as a national legislation in 1956 and the US Congress followed suit in 1963. The US Environmental Protection Agency established the Regional Haze Rule to aid in lowering the national anthropogenic pollutant releases intended to improve linear visibility in wilderness between 2004-18 duration that will culminate to a natural visibility condition status by 2064 (Park et al. 5405).

Air Pollution and the Current Situation (in particular The Arctic Haze Phenomenon)

Quinn et al. (99) explain that Alaskan Arctic and Canada have for a half century experienced haze of unknown origin. The initial perception of its origin attributed to either dust blowing from the riverbeds or open ice seeding ice crystals.

Chemical analysis led to reveal its anthropogenic origins (Yalcin and Wake 4487). The haze comprised to a greater extent sulfate and particulate organic matter (Singh et al. 3). Other components like NO_X species, ammonium, dust and black carbon were small amounts.

The presence of heavy metals gave the indications of industrial emissions. The initial measurement of the haze involved a handheld sunphotometer from an aircraft that flew vertically across Alaska. The realization of anthropogenic sources prompted the Europe and North America to convene in 1978 the Arctic Air Chemistry Symposium in Norway to agree on a concerted effort towards measurements.

Aerial measurements since in the 1980s revealed that haze existed in the lowest 5km of the atmosphere with its highs at the lowest 2km. The haze pollutants remain consistent throughout the season.

Quinn et al. (100) note that recent revelations show that natural climate variability influence inter-annual changes in levels of Arctic haze. The North Atlantic Oscillation has a positive phase leading to rise in concentrations of haze resulting from pollutants from North America and Europe.

According to Law and Stohl (1537), within a transport time span of 10 days, there was a revelation that stratospheric air-masses contributed a fifth (within a range of 3 to 5km), but close to sea level and at winter this declined to 1-0.5 percent. Asian dust contributes to haze in British Columbia, Canada (McKendry et al. 18361).

Monitoring Fluctuations of Arctic Haze Precursors

The seasonal cycle for Arctic haze reaches its climax towards the end of winter and at the beginning of spring (Quinn et al. 100). Figure 1 shows monitoring cycle for black carbon. Haze appears close to the surface in April; but in higher altitudes till in May.

Inferentially, black carbon concentration is significant during the Arctic haze season but deeps in summer. In the period between 1989 to 2003 concentration of black carbon reduced by 54 percent at Alert coinciding with emission cuts (Quinn et al. 100).

Figure 1: Monitoring of Black Carbon contributing to Arctic Haze pollutants

Source: Law and Stohl (1537) where (A and B) illustrate the long-term trends and across seasons of Black Carbon (as a haze indicator). The measurements collected at Alert, Canada.

Measurement of Arctic haze precursors in the last 20 years show a declining trend of emissions, particularly for the sulphates and light scattering aerosols. Figure 2 shows that 2010 emissions declined in the ranged between 18 and 57% vis-à-vis 1990 levels. Ammonia was the outlier with a 10% rise.

Figure 2: Canada’s Emission Trends for 1990-2010

Source: Environment Canada

Figure 3 shows that burning of firewood and industrial releases were important emitters of particulate matter. Electrical plants and combustion were main emitters of SO₂. Automobiles led in NO_X and CO emissions.

Figure 3: Canada’s Emission Trends for 2010 (distribution by sources)

Source: Environment Canada

Figure 4 shows that regions that higher emissions were Ontario, Quebec and Alberta. Presence of a oil and agrarian activities in Alberta could explains the high emissions for SO_X, NO_X and VOC as well as NH₃. Firewood use in Quebec explains the high atmospheric particulate matter.

Figure 4: Canada’s Emission Trends for 2010 (distribution by regions)

Source: Environment Canada

Health Effects and Remedial

There are human health concerns associated with pollutants in the Arctic, especially within the urban settings. Incidences of throat irritation and worsening of asthma prevalence among other cardio-respiratory diseases have links with SO₂ and acid haze, dust and particulate matter.

Jerrett et al. (31) found that in Hamilton, Canada that haze pollution had higher adverse effects on manufacturing workforce that had ambient exposure. Villeneuve et al. (1) found asthma (among young children) incidences associated with air pollution in Albert, Canada.

Haze Pollution Management Technologies and Procedures

Canada and the US have collaborated for a mutual approach to air quality issues. Among the collaborative efforts made include passing legislation that establishes air quality monitoring through ground-based air monitoring and remote sensing (Turquety et al. 2; DeBell et al. 2).

For instance, the Canada-United States Border Air Quality Strategy executed by the environment ministers for member countries introduced projects for the management of air quality improvement and associated creative strategies. Creative strategies include trans-boundary trading of capped emissions of NO_X and SO_2.

The ultimate intentions of the cap-trading program are to lower the overall loading of precursors into the atmosphere.

Precaution and control mechanisms

Precautionary health measures against haze pollution include wearing of facial masks, remaining indoors, use of air cleaners and apply emergency measures. Air cleaners fitted with effective filters lower the level of indoor particles. However, it is requisite that the air cleaner be calibrated in line with the immediate indoor environment.

Economic status of users presents the immediate challenges to prospective users of air cleaners. The use of facial masks for individual protection circumvents the immediate cost implications associated with air cleaners.

There is a need for public education to raise awareness on the recommended mask; when to wear and when the need for replacement arises. Whether to recommend the closure of premises that release pollutants is subject to immediate local, health and environmental but also economic, traffic and social factors.

Conclusion

The province of Ontario was first to set air pollution standards in 1963. Canada’s national government established the Clean Air Act in 1971 to check on the ambient air quality.

The US and Canada agreed on the Ozone Annex in 2010 that intended to lower trans-boundary smog. Europe and the North America put in place the Convention on Long-Range Trans-boundary Air Pollution established in 1979. Remote-sensing and ground-based measurements are some of the approaches for gauging haze pollutant levels.

The Arctic haze phenomenon has provided significant bases for action against anthropogenic releases, particularly from industrial processes. Findings from chemical fingerprinting established precursor element to include SO₂, NO_X, metal traces and POM. Though health effects are evident, no health problem has links to an individual pollutant type.

Public education and safety devices are some of the soft mitigation measures for haze pollutants.

Works Cited

DeBell, Linsey, Robert Talbot, Jack Dibb, William Munger, Emily Fischer and Steve Frolking. “A major regional air pollution event in the northeastern United States caused by extensive forest fires in Quebec, Canada.” Journal Of Geophysical Research. 109 (2004):1-16. MTU. Web.

Environment Canada. 2012, National Air Pollutant Emissions. Web.

Jerrett, M., R. Burnett, J. Brook, P. Kanaroglou, C. Giovis, N. Finkelstein and B. Hutchison. “Do socioeconomic characteristics modify the short term association between air pollution and mortality? Evidence from a zonal time series in Hamilton, Canada.” J Epidemiol Community Health. 58 (2004): 31–40. BMJ. Web.

Law, Kathy and Andreas Stohl. “Arctic Air Pollution: Origins and Impacts.” Science. 315 (2007):1537-1540. Sciencemag. Web.

McKendry, I., J. Hacker, R. Stull, S. Sakiyama, D. Mignacca and K. Reid. “Long-range transport of Asian dust to the Lower Fraser Valley, British Columbia, Canada.” Journal Of Geophysical Research. 106 (2001):18361–18370. UBC. Web.

Park, Rokjin, Daniel Jacob, Naresh Kumarb and Robert Yantosca. “Regional visibility statistics in the United States: Natural and transboundary pollution influences, and implications for the Regional Haze Rule.” Atmospheric Environment. 40 (2006):5405–5423. Elsevier. Web.

Quinn, P., g. Shaw, E. Andrews, E. Dutton, T. Ruoho-Airola and S. Gong. “Arctic Haze: Current Trends And Knowledge Gaps.” Tellus. 59B (2007):99–114. Blackwell Munksgaard. Web.

Singh, H., W. Brune, J. Crawford, D. Jacob and P. Russell. “Overview of the summer 2004 Intercontinental Chemical Transport Experiment–North America (INTEX-A).” Journal Of Geophysical Research. 111 (2006):1-17. Harvard. Web.

Turquety, Solene, Jennifer Logan, Daniel Jacob, Rynda Hudman, Fok Yan Leung, Colette Heald, Robert Yantosca, Shiliang Wu Louisa Emmons, David Edwards, and Glen Sachse. “Inventory of boreal fire emissions for North America in 2004: Importance of peat burning and pyroconvective injection.” Journal Of Geophysical Research. 112 (2007):1-13. Harvard. Web.

Villeneuve, Paul, Li Chen, Brian Rowe and Frances Coates. “Outdoor air pollution and emergency department visits for asthma among children and adults: A case-crossover study in northern Alberta, Canada.” Environmental Health. 6.40 (2007):1-40. Ehjournal. Web.

Yalcin, Kaplan and Cameron Wake. “Anthropogenic signals recorded in an ice core from Eclipse Icefield, Yukon Territory, Canada.” Geophysical Research Letters. 28.23 (2001):4487-4490. ORST. Web.

Mammadova, Shakar, and Sadegh Rostamnia. “The Ecogeographical Impact of Air Pollution in the Azerbaijan Cities: Possible Plant/Synthetic-Based Nanomaterial Solutions.” Proquest, 2022. Web.

The text assesses the main causes of air pollution in Azerbaijani cities. Its main focus is on industrial gas wastes and transport systems. Due to the effects of the latter on health being connected to air pollution, it offers using geographical and ecological information as a suitable way to prevent this problem. Moreover, the source advises to refer to the capabilities of nanotechnology to remove different air pollutants. This is a rather strong aspect of the paper, as it provides specific data on the matter. The other valuable advantage of the paper is that it depicts methods that can help improve the urban environment and control various pollutants. The weakness of the text is that the safety of NPs and their probable toxic effects on human health and the environment are not evaluated. This paper adds me to my project, as I wanted to add a source that would depict the data and nanotechnology.

Pan, Wei-Yi, and Shen, Hong-Yan. “Correlation Analysis between Motor Vehicle Types and Air Pollution in Shijiazhuang City.” Proquest, IOP Publishing, 2018. Web.

This paper reviews the connection between various kinds of motor vehicles and air pollution. It was done with the help of traffic data of the usual roads and emission factors. Moreover, it compared the EDMS model with said information and implemented the model to calculate the inventory of air pollutant discharge emissions. The strong aspect of the paper is that it provides specific information regarding various emission factors and suggests some solutions that can be performed by relevant departments. The weak aspects of the paper is that the EDMS model implemented in the text is rarely used, thus, its flaws and advantages are yet to be fully assessed. The source adds me to the paper, because I wanted to choose a text that would depict how motor vehicles are correlated with air pollution.

Wang, Jin, Wu, Qiuxia, Liu, Juan, Yang, Hong, Yin, Meiling, Chen, Shili, Guo, Peiyu, Ren, Jiamin, Luo, Xuwen, Linghu, Wensheng, and Huang, Qiong “Vehicle emission and atmospheric pollution in China: problems, progress, and prospects.” Europe PMC, PeerJ, 2019. Web.

The following source reviews the reasons and circumstances of air pollution caused by vehicle emissions. It emphasizes the importance of comprehending the barriers in the industry of vehicles, so that appropriate and eco-friendly solutions and policies could be implemented to control air pollution caused by vehicles. The strong aspect of the paper is that the review depicts the insight regarding the reasons and circumstances of said pollution and writes about the progress that is being made regarding the long-term strategies and regulations of the policymakers. Moreover, experiences from other countries may be rather insightful for future research on the matter. Finally, the third strong feature of the text is that its implications are supposed to be extended to other countries that experience similar problems regarding air pollution. The weakness is that this paper is focused only on one country, thus, being more considerate of its individual circumstances. The source will add me in my project through offering ideas how the problem of air pollution can be resolved.

Wang, Lai. “Discussion about the Health Effects, Causes, and Probable Solutions to the Air Pollutions Caused by Vehicle Exhaust Emissions.” Proquest, IOP Publishing, 2018. Web.

This text reviews the causes and categories of pollution, the health problems caused by it and the evaluation systems being used. Closer to the end of the text, Lai Wang offers ideas that could help overcome this problem from various aspects. The strong aspect of the paper is that it provides a rather in-depth depiction of the aforementioned topic. The weak aspect, however, is that it focuses on only one country, and that some of the solutions being offered may be time-consuming and have other underlying flaws. This source adds me to the project because I wanted to add another source that discusses the issue and helpful ideas to resolve it.

Problem

In the modern world, plastic has penetrated almost everywhere: hygiene products and food are packed into it, car parts, phones, computers, and even chewing gum are made of it. While we are told about plastic recycling, students should be aware that waste will never produce the same material – maximum products of lower quality that can no longer be recycled. Of the 30 million tons of plastic waste in the United States in 2009, only 7% were sent for recycling, which primarily damages marine life (Wilcox et al. 11901). The rest ended their life cycle in garbage heaps on beaches, rivers, and oceans (De Wolff 36). This creates problems such as trash islands floating in the Pacific. In addition, plastic is made using crude oil, which means that the problem with fossil fuels also applies here.

Solution

Reduce the consumption of plastics is beneficial, but sometimes difficult to access due to the insecurity of food storage and lack of convenience. However, it is possible to avoid unnecessary packaging or choose environmentally friendly alternatives. The growing demand for plastic-free products, in turn, will force companies to redesign their products. Raising consumer awareness of the environmental impact of their choices is a long-term strategy (Liboiron 98). Therefore, KSU students should organize on-campus events that will promote eco-friendly alternatives. It can be provided through formal education: in schools, universities, or non-formal – news, videos. Interest in environmental issues is growing and supported by free online courses, lectures, and events, thematic mobile applications. Plastic materials are not biodegradable, which makes them toxic and highly detrimental to marine animals (Bergmann et al. 297). It is necessary to evaluate the life cycle of the product and packaging – this helps to identify ways to improve the environmental parameters of products at different stages of their use.

Works Cited

Bergmann, Melanie, et al. “Sea Change for Plastic Pollution.” Nature, vol. 554, no. 1, 2017, pp. 297-298.

De Wolff, Kim. “Plastic Naturecultures: Multispecies Ethnography and the Dangers of Separating Living from Nonliving Bodies.” Body & Society, vol. 23, no. 3, 2017, pp. 23-47.

Liboiron, Max. “Redefining Pollution and Action: The Matter of Plastics.” Journal of Material Culture, vol. 21, no. 1, 2016, pp. 87-110.

Wilcox, Chris, et al. “Threat of Plastic Pollution to Seabirds is Global, Pervasive, and Increasing.” PNAS, vol. 112, no. 38, 2015, pp. 11899-11904.

Water is a vital resource for any city, and Cashion, Oklahoma, is no exception. As a small city in the northwest part of Oklahoma, Cashion is a thriving community that relies heavily on its water sources for everyday life. Cashion’s water supply comes from various sources, including local wells, surface water from nearby lakes, and water purchased from Oklahoma City (Eck et al., 2019). Additionally, Cashion is home to a state-of-the-art water treatment facility that provides safe, clean drinking water to the city’s residents.

The city of Cashion also has a unique relationship with its local water sources. The nearby lakes provide recreational opportunities for the citizens of Cashion, including fishing, boating, irrigation, swimming, and camping which helps the agricultural industry in Cashion (Eck et al., 2019). This essay discusses the quality of water as per the report of 2021 obtained from the municipality, the quality issue and the source of pollution, and how the pollution impacts human health and the environment while identifying the management practices to minimize water pollution.

In Cashion, the water quality is monitored by our local municipality. The most recent water quality report for Cashion was issued in 2021. It found that the water complied with all local and federal regulations. It also stated that the water was free from harmful contaminants like lead, bacteria, and pesticides (2021 water quality report, 2021). In addition to checking for contaminants, the report also tested for levels of certain minerals.

The report found that the water had good calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels. These minerals can benefit health and are commonly found in water sources. The report also tested for chlorine, which is used to disinfect water and kill harmful bacteria. The report found that chlorine levels in the water were within acceptable levels. This is important, as high chlorine levels can be hazardous to health. Overall, the water quality in Cashion complies with all local and federal regulations.

Various sources of pollution have affected the water quality in the community, including point sources, non-point sources, and natural sources. Point sources of water pollution in Cashion include several industrial factories and two Superfund sites (Datta et al., 2018). The factories release various environmental pollutants, including heavy metals, petroleum products, and other hazardous chemicals. The Superfund sites are former industrial sites that have been contaminated with hazardous materials and require remediation. The pollutants from these sites can contaminate the local water supply and cause harm to human health.

Additionally, non-point sources of water pollution in Cashion are primarily attributed to agricultural runoff. Runoff from agricultural fields can contain pesticides, fertilizers, and other chemicals that can harm aquatic life and human health (Datta et al., 2018). Additionally, agricultural runoff can also cause eutrophication, which occurs when excess nutrients from runoff cause algal blooms that can deplete oxygen in the water. Further, natural sources of water pollution in Cashion include sedimentation and runoff from storm events. Sedimentation can cause turbidity in the water, reducing the amount of sunlight that can penetrate the water and limiting the growth of aquatic plants and organisms. Also, storm runoff can cause flooding, increasing the number of pollutants entering the water, including oil and petroleum products, heavy metals, and other hazardous materials.

Pollution from both point sources and non-point sources is having a significant impact on the environment and human health in Cashion, Oklahoma. According to Weckler (2021), point sources, such as industrial factories and Superfund sites, are responsible for releasing pollutants directly into the environment, while non-point sources, such as agricultural runoff, contaminate the environment through indirect methods. For example, industrial factories can release pollutants into the air, water, and soil, while agricultural runoff can contaminate soil, water, and air with pesticides, fertilizers, and other toxic chemicals.

These pollutants can have a devastating effect on the environment and human health, such as contributing to air pollution, water contamination, and soil degradation (Weckler, 2021). Additionally, they can lead to various health issues, including asthma, respiratory problems, and cancer. In Cashion, Oklahoma, two specific examples of point source pollution are the Cargill Meat Solutions plant and the Cashion Superfund Site. Two particular examples of non-point source pollution include agricultural runoff from nearby farms and sediment from local construction sites (Weckler, 2021). Clearly, both point and non-point sources are having a drastic impact on the environment and human health in Cashion, Oklahoma.

Several management practices can be employed to minimize water pollution in the area. These include reducing wastewater discharge, implementing stormwater management plans, and increasing public awareness. Each of these practices is essential for maintaining a healthy and safe environment for Cashion’s citizens and the environment (Dalcin & Fernandes Marques, 2020). By reducing the amount of wastewater discharge, Cashion can ensure that contaminants are not released into nearby water sources. Consequently, stormwater management plans will help to reduce the amount of runoff and pollution entering local waterways (Dalcin & Fernandes Marques, 2020). Finally, increased public awareness helps ensure that individuals take the necessary steps to reduce their environmental impact.

In conclusion, the water quality in Cashion complies with all local and federal regulations and is free from harmful contaminants. However, the water quality is still being impacted by a variety of sources of pollution, including point sources, non-point sources, and natural sources. To protect the environment and human health in Cashion, it is crucial to implement management practices that reduce water pollution and increase public awareness. By doing so, Cashion can ensure that its citizens have access to clean and safe drinking water and that its environment is protected.

References

“2021 water quality report.” (2021). Oklahoma City Water Utilities Trust. Web.

Dalcin, A. P., & Fernandes Marques, G. (2020). Integrating Water Management Instruments to Reconcile a Hydro‐Economic Water Allocation Strategy with Other Water Preferences. Water Resources Research, 56(5). Web.

Datta, S., Taghvaeian, S., Ochsner, T., Moriasi, D., Gowda, P., & Steiner, J. (2018). Performance Assessment of Five Different Soil Moisture Sensors under Irrigated Field Conditions in Oklahoma. Sensors, 18(11), 3786. Web.

Eck, C. J., Wagner, K. L., Chapagain, B., & Joshi, O. (2019). A Survey of Perceptions and Attitudes about Water Issues in Oklahoma: A Comparative Study. Journal of Contemporary Water Research &Amp; Education, 168(1), 66–77. Web.

Weckler, P. (2021). Spatial distribution of water pollution incidents reported to the Oklahoma Corporation Commission. Web.