How to Stop Air Pollution Causes
Air pollution is comprised mainly of ozone and particle pollution, and reaches unhealthy levels in almost every major city in the U.S. The biggest causes of pollution are dirty power plants, old diesel vehicles and heavy equipment. Breathing in smog and soot is associated with heart attacks and strokes, and complications for people with asthma and diabetes. You can help clean up the air in your community by conserving energy, reducing the pollution generated by your household, and minimizing waste.
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Instructions
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Use less electricity. Turn off lights when you leave the room ,and do not leave electrical appliances switched on when not in use. Wash your clothes on a cool or warm - rather than hot. Reduce the thermostat on your water heater to 120 degrees F.
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Drive less. Whenever possible walk, bike, or take public transit instead. Join a carpool if you use your car for regular journeys.
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Run an environmentally friendly car. Visit the Environmental Protection Agency's Green Vehicle Guide website for information on efficient, low-polluting models in your area. Fill up with an energy-conserving grade motor oil. Keep tires properly inflated and aligned to lower fuel use. Get regular maintenance checks.
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Improve indoor air quality. Keep wood stoves and fireplaces well maintained to minimize emissions. Use EPA-certified models to guarantee safety and efficiency. Choose paints, stains, finishes, and paint strippers that are low in Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). Refrain from smoking indoors.
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Recycle your waste whenever possible. This includes paper, plastic, glass bottles, cardboard, and aluminum cans. Don't burn wood or trash.
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Support nationwide campaigns to reduce air pollution. Visit the American Lung Association's website to find out about clean air initiatives in your area.
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Tips & Warnings
Check local newspapers, television and radio stations for air quality reports using the Air Quality Index (AQI). Alternatively, get up-to-date air quality information at AirNow.gov. Stay indoors as much as possible on days when the AQI is higher than 100.
References
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