Air pollution is one of the major problems in our world today. From global warming to pulmonary diseases, air pollution could become more ravaging if we do not step up and play our roles to prevent the further pollution of our ecosystem.

While trying to protect our planet should be a lifestyle, the Clean Air Movement has been set in motion to raise awareness and educate us about the dangers of air pollution and how we can regulate it.

 

What is Clean Air Month?

Clean Air Month was established by the American Lung Association in May 1994. The aims of the movement are:

• To generate public awareness about air pollution
• To teach the public how to contribute their quota to caring for the ecosystem
• To educate people about how air quality affects respiratory health

Clean Air Month Activities

During the Clean Air Month, practices that can improve air quality are adopted and implemented. They’re little acts, but collectively, they can make substantial change. Here are some of them:

1.   Recycling:

Recycling is one of the key activities that Clean Air Month encourages. Recycling is the process of collecting materials like plastic, glass, paper, and aluminum that would be thrown away as trash, processing them, and turning them into new products.

These materials are usually burnt and the process releases fossil fuels like coal and natural gas, which are the major causes of air pollution, into the atmosphere. But when they’re recycled, energy is conserved and air quality is improved.

You can help recycle products by sorting your trash into recyclable and non-recyclable products. You can also make sure to buy and use recycled products.

2.   Composting:

Like recycling, composting deals with waste products. It’s a method of recycling organic matter like moss, sewage sludge, leaves, insects, sawdust, bird droppings, manure, et cetera, into fertilizer that can nourish the soil and plants.

Compost doesn’t require industrial production, so it saves energy. Also, when it’s applied to the soil, it decomposes to release greenhouse gases that are 25 times stronger than carbon. Hence, they’re good for the atmosphere.

3.   Using Eco-friendly/Bio-degradable materials:

Replacing materials that are harsh on the environment with safer ones is also a way to clear the air. For example, replacing plastic bags with paper ones. Or using fuels that emit less carbon than others. Also, using fans instead of air conditioners.

This will make sure that the decomposition of waste matter takes place effectively and reduce the carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

4.   Nurturing Nature:

The environment needs proper care if we want clean, quality air. Therefore, practices like afforestation should be highly encouraged. Planting trees in and around residential areas not only serve as shades and aesthetics but also increases the oxygen levels in the air.

5.   Using “safer” means of transportation:

Carbon emissions from vehicles are major sources of pollution in the environment. To reduce these emissions, it is advisable to use electric cars, public transportation, bicycles, or even walk, depending on the distance.

6.   Maintaining clean air in homes:

Even indoors, we are at risk of air pollution due to molds, dust mites, and dampness that may trigger allergies and asthmatic conditions. We can ensure that the home has clean air by keeping the environment clean, dry, and well ventilated. Planting trees around the house can also help to increase oxygen levels.

 

Benefits of Clean Air Month

Clean Air Month aims to promote healthy practices that improve air quality. This has massive benefits both for humans and for the environment.

· Human health

Polluted air causes pulmonary diseases like cancer and bronchitis, and can trigger asthma and allergies. Improving the air quality of the environment will improve lung health as well.

· Environmental health

The planet is at risk. The ozone layer depletes daily as harmful gases are released into the atmosphere. Clean Air Month helps to raise awareness that will make people care more for nature.

Final Words

You have an obligation to save Planet Earth. Preach the clean air gospel to everyone around you and together, one day at a time, we will save our planet and humanity.  Contact us here if you have any questions or need clarification on lung-related issues. We can also help you connect with a pulmonologist if you need one.