Name: Muqaddas S.
Khan
Seat no: EB23206006078
Course: BTH-531 (Environmental Policy)
Course instructor: Ms. Uzma Hafeez
Assignment 05
Human Impact on the Environment: Atmospheric Pollution
Introduction
Air pollution is a major environmental issue caused by human activities. It leads to climate change, health
problems, and ecosystem damage. The main pollutants include carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), and
sulfur dioxide (SO₂).
1. Causes of Air Pollution
● Industrial Emissions
Factories release harmful gases like SO₂ and nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), which pollute the air.
● Vehicle Emissions
Cars and trucks burn fuel, producing carbon monoxide (CO) and greenhouse gases.
● Agriculture
- Fertilizers release ammonia (NH₃), which contributes to pollution.
- Livestock farming produces methane (CH₄), a greenhouse gas.
● Deforestation
Cutting down trees reduces CO₂ absorption, increasing air pollution.
● Waste Burning
Burning plastic and other waste releases toxic chemicals into the air.
2. Effects of Air Pollution
● Health Issues
- Causes asthma, lung diseases, and heart problems.
- Increases the risk of cancer and neurological disorders.
● Environmental Damage
- Acid Rain: harms forests, soil, and water bodies.
- Global Warming: leads to rising temperatures and extreme weather.
- Ozone Layer Depletion: increases harmful UV radiation exposure.
● Economic Impact
- Higher healthcare costs due to pollution-related diseases.
- Damage to crops and reduced agricultural yield.
3. Solutions to Reduce Air Pollution
● Government Actions
- Strict emission laws for industries and vehicles.
- Encouraging renewable energy sources like solar and wind.
● Technology Solutions
- Use of electric vehicles (EVs) instead of petrol/diesel cars.
- Air filtration systems in factories and urban areas.
● Individual Efforts
- Plant more trees to absorb CO₂.
- Reduce plastic waste and promote recycling.
4. Air Pollution Statistics
- 7 million people die annually from air pollution (WHO).
- 36.8 billion tons of CO₂ were emitted globally in 2022.
- The transport sector contributes 25% of global emissions.
- China, India, and the U.S. are the top CO₂ emitters.
Conclusion
Air pollution is a serious problem affecting health, the environment, and economies. Governments,
industries, and individuals must work together to reduce emissions, switch to clean energy, and adopt
sustainable practices to protect the planet.