What is causing air pollution? It is caused by motor vehicles, industrial facilities and forest fires. Right now, “Transportation is the largest source of air pollution in Utah” according to heal utah.org. It’s also caused by solid and liquid particles and certain gasses that are spread around the world and get trapped in the atmosphere.
According to National Geographic.org, “Most air pollution is created by people burning fossil fuels which include coal, natural gas and oil. Problems with human-caused air pollution began in the mid 1700’s, when Europe and North America entered the period of time known as the industrial revolution.”
The Salt Lake City air quality is partially causing the Great Salt Lake to dry up, and according to the New York times, “Most alarming, the air surrounding Salt Lake City would occasionally turn poisonous. The lake bed contains high levels of arsenic and as more of it becomes exposed, wind storms carry that arsenic into the lungs of nearby residents, who make up three quarters of Utah’s population.” They even stated that, “Saving the Great Salt Lake would require letting more snow melt from the mountains flow to the lake, which means less water for residents and farmers.” This dried up lake can harm birds when they stop at the lake annually.
The Cougar Claw interviewed Alejandro Chicardini, a Science teacher at Kearns High School. He explained how to improve air quality, which is, “Using more efficient fuel and to get better filters.” He also explained the reasons as to why air pollution affects human health. He said, “It comes from respiratory diseases, lungs and liver. He even talked about the air is in Salt Lake City. He explained that, “It’s usually not good because the air is polluted all around us and gets trapped in the atmosphere.”
Why should Kearns be aware of this situation? Chicardini stated that, “it’s because we all share the same air and the same water.”
To make sure we prevent air pollution, drive your car less, plant and care for trees, and to reduce energy consumption as well as gas. It is important to reduce air pollution because breathing clean air can lessen the chance of a disease such as stroke, heart disease, lung cancer and asthma. It states in TN department health that, “Lower levels of air pollution are better for heart respiratory health both long and short-term.” It can also provide key health benefits by improving air quality in Salt Lake City.
Some ways people can take action is by reducing gas, using cars less, not burn garbage and using less electricity.