Do your bit to improve the quality of air around you

The air that we breathe is full of toxic and hazardous pollutants. Pollution in the air is not only affecting the living beings but it is very likely that air pollution in the environment could leave Mother Earth sapped of its beauty and biodiversity. The WHO has rightly labelled air pollution as a global public health emergency.

Poor air quality is a major environmental risk factor. It is deteriorating our eco-system and also polluting groundwater, soil and is a threat to the diversity of life. But how should countries cope? Rising urbanization and use of personal vehicles are major contributors to the worsening quality of air globally. And has a grave toxicological impact on human health and environment. Millions of people suffer respiratory, cardiovascular and other chronic diseases due to poor air quality. Besides, it is also causing extinction of animals and plant species.

Simple changes can make a huge difference. The key to living a healthy life is to identify the sources of air pollution and implement practical ways to reduce it. Governments have a crucial role to play in this, and so do we at the individual level. Making conscious choices like skipping your car for public transport, or pooling in with a friend, might seem a small step but when multiplied by a lot of people can vastly contribute to better air quality. Start small and start from home. Conserve water, energy, stop using plastic, go green, use solar energy and recycle products. Drive smart, use public transport and plant more plants/ trees. Adhering to these simple yet effective steps can help everyone breathe cleaner, fresher air and save the planet.