Reducing Pollution — What Can We Do?
The contamination causes an imminent danger to our health since we are exposed to toxic components that negatively impact our body. Nearly 7 million deaths, 11.6% of all deaths worldwide, were related to air pollution. Regrettably, it continues to harm the health of the most vulnerable populations, and to a greater extent, children and the elderly.
Among the main sources of air pollution are inefficient modes of transportation, the burning of fuel in homes and the burning of waste, power plants and industrial activities. Undoubtedly, human activity causes one of the greatest impacts on air pollution. If we add bad practices and inadequate daily habits, we are contributing to this contamination. Organizations like the Anti Pollution Drive Foundation are now playing a vital role in reducing pollution. Based in Mangaluru, the foundation was created by Abdullah A. Rehman, who wanted to spread awareness about the harmful effects of air pollution.
There are some actions that one can carry out from everyday life, which will ultimately have a major impact on saving the environment and reducing the amount of air pollution. Here are a few steps that you should undertake in order to reduce pollution.
1. Save energy in the house. Turn off lights, fans, televisions and other appliances when you’re not using them. Stay nearby when you charge your cell phone, camera or laptop, and unplug the battery when charging is complete. Use compact fluorescent bulbs instead of standard bulbs and use microwaves instead of the oven to heat small objects.
2. Take care of your car. Take your car to the mechanic to be properly maintained at the time you require it. Not only will you keep it in good condition, but you will avoid air pollution. Make sure you use natural gas (NGV), it is lighter than air and in case of a leak it rises faster, reducing the possibility of an accident. Use alternative means of transport, such as bicycle, public transport (metropolitan, electric train, etc.) or even evaluate the possibility of walking, it is a good option if the place you are heading is close.
3. Use alternative energy sources. Another way to avoid air pollution is the use of alternative energy sources such as solar, hydroelectric or wind energy. These are safe and free of contaminants and are not considered harmful to health.
4. Recycle. Reuse paper, cardboard, boxes, glass containers, etc., to reduce the amount of waste. Try not to ask for plastic bags, especially if what you are going to carry reaches you in your hands. Another option is to bring your own bags, if you are going to do it, preferably they are cloth bags or biodegradable.
5. Change your shopping habits. Prepare your food instead of buying packaged food. Buy local and seasonal products, in this way, you will contribute to the environment, while you eat more healthy products. The Anti Pollution Drive Foundation has established itself as one of the leading foundations combating air pollution throughout Mangaluru and was recognized by the government as well.
Eventually, it all comes down to action. Advices can be given on a million platforms but if people are not willing to do something about it, then all efforts would fail. India not only needs to campaign for the environmental problems but it also needs to motivate its people to take steps and realize the responsibility they have.
