We can however help with the reduction of the pollution.
The celebration of this day provides us with an opportunity to broaden the basis for an enlightened opinion and responsible conduct by individuals, enterprises and communities in preserving and enhancing the environment. The DNM as the entity in charge with the management of policies for the protection of our nature and environment is responsible for the creation of awareness in the community in order to help stop air pollution.
Air pollution comes in various forms and affects the community and the environment. Once air pollution is completely understood, scientists can come up with possible solutions to address this global issue.
There are five types of Air Pollution and all can be addressed differently. The culprit of air pollution agriculture, residential, industrial, transport and waste.
General fuel usage, BBQ fire, heaters (not relevant to Aruba) and the use of electricity cause residential air pollution. Electrical plants are big contributors to air pollution since they use carbon and diesel generators to produce electricity for residents and businesses.
There is a growing trend with the use of alternative energy and renewable energy that helps with the reduction of air pollution while providing clean energy. Transport is also a culprit for air pollution, with the emission of high levels of carbon dioxide. Studies revealed a connection between carbon dioxide and premature death.
Diesel emissions on the roads have been proved to cause dementia for those living near highways. Agriculture is also known to cause air pollution with commercial livestock farms producing high levels of methane and ammonia. Incineration of agricultural by-products also help polluting the air. Local celebrations like San Juan Day also contributes to air pollution when people incinerate all kinds of stuff. Methane emissions contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone, which causes asthma and other respiratory illnesses. Methane is also a more potent global warming gas than carbon dioxide
Around 24 percent of all greenhouse gases emitted worldwide come agriculture, forestry and other land-use.
There are many ways to reduce air pollution from agriculture. People can move to a plant-based diet and/or reduce food waste, while farmers can reduce methane from livestock by optimizing feed digestibility, improving grazing, and grassland management.
Open waste burning and organic waste in landfills release harmful dioxins, furans, methane, and fine particulate matter like black carbon into the atmosphere.
Globally, an estimated 40 percent of waste is openly burned. The problem is most severe in urbanizing regions and developing countries.
Improving the collection, separation, and disposal of solid waste reduces the amount of waste that is burned or landfilled. Separating organic waste and turning, it into compost or bioenergy improves soil fertility and provides an alternative energy source. Reducing the estimated one-third of all food that is lost or wasted can also improve air quality. Reducing the amount of food consumed and wasted will also help reduce air pollution.
Not all air pollution comes from human activity. Volcanic eruptions, dust storms and other natural processes also cause problems. Sand and dust storms are particularly concerning. Fine particles of dust can travel thousands of miles on the back of these storms, which may also carry pathogens and harmful substances, causing acute and chronic respiratory problems.
In Aruba we also encounter air pollution caused by the dust created by the UTV’s being driven recklessly all over the island. The dust does not only cause irritation, but also harms vegetation, causes health issues and affects the wellbeing of animals and humans.
The DNM encourages all to take the necessary steps into helping reduce air pollution. This includes planting more plants, cleanups and carpooling.
For helpful information about World Environment Day 2019 follow us on Facebook and Instagram. The DNM started a challenge and invited other departments to accept the challenge and to take action.
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