First of all, what does ‘pollution’ mean? Pollution is the introduction of harmful materials into the environment. These harmful materials are called pollutants. Pollutants can be natural, such as volcanic ash. They can also be created by human activity, such as trash or runoff produced by factories. Pollutants damage the quality of air, water, and land. 1
Many things that are useful to people produce pollution. Cars spew pollutants from their exhaust pipes. Burning coal to create electricity pollutes the air. Industries and homes generate garbage and sewage that can pollute the land and water. Pesticides—chemical poisons used to kill weeds and insects—seep into waterways and harm wildlife. 1
Here are some examples of actions to reduce the pollution:
1. Use public transportation:
Use your vehicle a lot less often. Carpool and ride-share whenever you have the opportunity, and if you can walk, even better! 2
2. Plant a garden:
Okay, it doesn’t have to be a huge garden, but if you can add to your family a plant or two, you’re giving the air the nutrients that it needs to be cleaner. Do your research and see what one(s) you can grow easily and that will help the world around you. 3
3. If you don’t use the light, turn it off:
Don’t keep the lights or other electric devices on. The more traditional power that you are using, the more energy you’re wasting. 4
4. Avoid plastic bags:
They are made from oil products and they can hurt the environment because it takes them forever to decompose (and some never decompose). 5
5. Don’t smoke and avoid second-hand smoke:
Cigarette smoke is known to reduce your cardio-respiratory health and increase the risk of developing cancers. 6 Do you want to know more about how to quit smoking and why?
The air is something we can’t see but is vital for us. In the Bible, we have the assurance that God created everything perfect: “Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made.” (John 1:3) But we have to make our part and take care of this earth. Now you know the solution, are you going to do something about it?
References:
1 https://www.nationalgeographic.org/encyclopedia/pollution/
2 https://www.eea.europa.eu/themes/air/air-quality/more-about-air-pollutants/ozone-1/whatcanIdo/avoid-ozone-pollution
3 https://www.everydayhealth.com/healthy-living/green-health/7-ways-reduce-air-pollution/
4 https://www.saveonenergy.com/learning-center/energy-saving-tips/how-does-saving-energy-help-the-environment/
5 https://www.conserve-energy-future.com/41-super-easy-ways-to-stop-air-pollution.php
6 https://bc.lung.ca/news/latest-news/how-can-i-reduce-exposure-air-pollution
