Air Quality
Index (AQI) has gained importance in recent times due to level of pollution in
air, particularly in large metropolitans of world. Likewise in Pakistan, Lahore
city has been rated having very high value of AQI. But ‘what is Air Quality
Index (AQI)?’, let’s explore in this article.
AQI is numeric
scale evaluating air pollution levels and includes particulate matter, ozone,
sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, and lead.
·
Numeric Range: Values range 0 to 500, higher numbers
indicating poorer air quality.
·
Categorization Levels: Color-coded from "Good" to
"Hazardous" for easy comprehension.
·
Health Risks Communication: Communicates potential health risks
linked to current air quality conditions.
· Decision-Making Tool: Empowers individuals to make informed health-conscious decisions based on prevailing air quality.
Understanding the Air Quality Index Scale
The AQI operates on a scale with different categories,
ranging from "Good" to "Hazardous." Each category indicates
the potential health effects associated with the air quality. For instance,
"Good" signifies air quality that poses little or no risk, while
"Hazardous" indicates a severe health risk, especially for sensitive
groups.
B)
FACTORS INFLUENCING
AQI
Common Air Pollutants
Common air
pollutants include carbon monoxide (CO), ozone (O3), nitrogen dioxide (NO2),
particulate matter (PM) and lead. These are having serious impacts on human
health, therefore, require significant monitory of their level.
Sources of Air Pollution
Understanding AQI necessitates recognizing the sources of
air pollution. Industrial emissions, vehicular exhaust, and agricultural
activities contribute significantly to elevated pollutant levels. A holistic
approach to air quality improvement involves addressing these sources.
C) SMOG
& AQI
Smog, a fusion of "smoke" and "fog,"
represents a dense mix of smoke, pollutants, and water vapor. Within the Air Quality Index (AQI), smog
signals elevated levels of pollutants like PM2.5, PM10, ozone, and nitrogen
dioxide.
Health Risks of Smog
These pollutants are linked to respiratory and
cardiovascular issues, heightening health risks. Smog degrades air quality, causing an AQI surge, indicating an
increased threat to human health.
Mitigating Smog
Vigilant monitoring and proactive measures are essential to
counteract smog's effects, fostering cleaner air in urban and industrialized
areas.
D)
HEALTH IMPACTS OF
POOR AIR QUALITY
Respiratory Issues
Air pollution
and high level of air pollutants cause serious respiratory issues such as
bronchitis, asthma and similar lungs & respiratory issues. The situation is
aggravated with elevated AQI scores. These air pollutants have serious impact
on lungs.
Cardiovascular Problems
Human
health is badly affected by the long exposure to air pollution causing cardiovascular
diseases such as strokes, heart attack and other similar health issues which demand
control on air quality.
E)
ROLE OF PLANTS IN
IMPROVING AIR QUALITY
Mechanisms of Air Purification by Plants
Phytoremediation refers to air purification by plants;
whereby plants are acting as natural air purifiers; as they absorb and
assimilate harmful substances from air & soil.
Key
Mechanisms of Phytoremediation
·
Photosynthesis: Plants absorb carbon dioxide during
photosynthesis, a vital process that not only releases oxygen but also reduces
the concentration of this greenhouse gas in the atmosphere.
·
Stomatal Uptake: Plants absorb pollutants through tiny pores
called stomata on their leaves, effectively capturing airborne contaminants.
·
Root Uptake: The roots of certain plants can absorb
pollutants from the soil, preventing their release into the air or groundwater.
Types of Plants That Contribute to Air Quality
Improvement
Certain plant species excel in air purification. Examples
include the Spider Plant, Peace Lily, and Aloe Vera. These plants not only
enhance indoor aesthetics but also play a pivotal role in creating healthier
living environments.
F) SELECT
PLANTS FOR AIR QUALITY IMPROVEMENT
Several
plant species exhibit remarkable abilities in purifying the air. Examples
include:
·
Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum): Effective in removing formaldehyde
and xylene.
·
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum spp.): Known for its air-purifying
qualities, particularly in reducing levels of ammonia, benzene, and
formaldehyde.
·
Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis Mill.): Effective in removing benzene and
formaldehyde from the air.
·
Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata): Known for its ability to absorb
nitrogen oxides and formaldehyde.
·
Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens): Excellent at removing indoor air
pollutants, including benzene and formaldehyde.
G)
INCORPORATING PLANTS
INTO INDOOR SPACES
Best Indoor Plants for Air Quality Improvement
Creating an indoor oasis with air-purifying plants is an
effective strategy for enhancing the air quality of enclosed spaces. Consider
incorporating plants such as the Rubber Plant, Dracaena, and Gerbera Daisy for
optimal results.
Tips for Maintaining Indoor Plants Effectively
To ensure the continued efficacy of indoor plants, proper
care is essential. Adequate sunlight, watering, and periodic fertilization
contribute to the longevity and efficiency of air-purifying plants.
H)
OUTDOOR PLANTING FOR
URBAN AIR QUALITY IMPROVEMENT
Urban Green Spaces and Their Impact
Urban planning that incorporates green spaces has a direct
positive impact on air quality. Trees, shrubs, and green infrastructure
contribute to the reduction of pollutants, fostering healthier urban
environments.
Community Initiatives for Planting Trees
Community-driven initiatives play a crucial role in
combating air pollution. Tree-planting campaigns and collaborative efforts to
enhance green spaces contribute to sustainable improvements in AQI.
I)
SUSTAINABLE
PRACTICES FOR AIR QUALITY IMPROVEMENT
Reducing Personal Carbon Footprint
Individuals can contribute to air quality improvement by
adopting sustainable practices. You
can reduce carbon footprint by reducing energy consumption or using green alternatives
for energy production; use public transportation and recycle among other such initiatives.
Advocacy for Clean Air Policies
Active advocacy for clean air policies is essential for
broader systemic change. Engaging in community forums, supporting environmental
organizations, and participating in clean air initiatives amplify the
collective voice for a healthier environment.
J)
AIR QUALITY INDEX (AQI) AND HUMAN WELL-BEING
Mental Health Implications of Poor Air Quality
Research has
shown correlation between environment and human health, as the poor air quality
will increase the stress levels and underprivileged life style.
Building Awareness and Taking Collective Action
Raising awareness about the impact of air quality on human
health is the first step towards positive change. By taking collective action,
individuals and communities can contribute to a cleaner, healthier environment
for all.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, understanding the Air Quality Index is paramount for safeguarding human health. The intricate web of factors influencing AQI, coupled with the pivotal role of plants in air quality improvement, underscores the need for collective action. By incorporating sustainable practices and advocating for clean air policies, we can create a healthier, more resilient future.
