SOURCES OF AIR POLLUTION IN RELATION TO THE PUBLIC HEALTH AND ENVOIRONMENT

Abstract

Air pollution has emerged as a critical global threat to public health and the environment. Major pollutants like PM2.5, O3, NO2, and SO2 contribute to respiratory, cardiovascular, and metabolic diseases, affecting over 92% of the world’s population. Children are especially vulnerable, with pollution linked to increased morbidity and mortality worldwide. Anthropogenic activities such as vehicle emissions, power plants, and industrial processes are the major sources of air pollution, releasing harmful pollutants that impact human health and the environment. Both indoor and outdoor pollution contribute to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, especially among vulnerable populations like children and workers. Long-term exposure to fine particles significantly increases the risk of chronic respiratory diseases like COPD and cardiovascular conditions such as ischemic heart disease. Air pollution causes climate change, acid rain, ecosystem degradation, ozone depletion, and biodiversity loss by damaging air, water, soil, and living organisms. These impacts threaten ecosystem services and global environmental health, necessitating urgent pollution control measures. Maximizing success in addressing atmospheric change and environmental degradation requires increasing public awareness, training, and engagement. A global preventative program and sustainable development strategies are essential to counteract anthropogenic air pollution and manage its health impacts. International cooperation in policy, administration, monitoring, and research is crucial, alongside advancing and synchronizing air pollution laws. Focusing on local frameworks to promote knowledge and practice can support the creation of effective global regulations for sustainable ecosystem management.