Articles tagged with Air Quality
Researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt have found that jet engine lubrication oils are a significant source of ultrafine particles. These tiny particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and trigger inflammatory reactions, potentially contributing to cardiovascular diseases.
A research team investigated NPF events in Beijing's atmosphere, discovering regional transport plays a vital role in creating 'polluted' NPF events. These events significantly impact air quality, climate, and human health, highlighting the importance of joint air pollution control measures.
A study by Brown University and Silent Spring Institute found that inexpensive DIY air filters called Corsi-Rosenthal boxes can significantly decrease indoor air concentrations of PFAS and phthalates. The boxes, made from MERV-13 filters, duct tape, a fan, and cardboard, reduced PFAS levels by 40% to 60% and phthalates by 30% to 60%.
A government policy that pushed back the sowing of rice in northwest India led to a delay in harvests and agricultural burning, exacerbating air pollution. Without this delay, cities like New Delhi would have seen an average of 11-21% less smoke-related air pollution between 2008 and 2019.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge discovered that the London Underground is contaminated with ultrafine metallic particles, including maghemite, which can be inhaled and enter the bloodstream. The particles are so small that they evade traditional air pollution monitoring methods, posing a significant risk to public health.
Research found that widespread electric vehicle adoption will significantly reduce air pollution and associated mortality in US metropolitan areas, with Los Angeles projected to see 1,163 fewer premature deaths annually. Electric vehicles could bring up to $12.61 billion in economic health benefits by 2050.
Researchers found that germicidal UV lamps can significantly decrease SARS-CoV-2 virus transmission risk, but also produce secondary VOCs and particulate matter, impacting indoor air quality. The study recommends using GUV systems in high-risk environments where benefits outweigh drawbacks.
Researchers found particulate air pollution concentrations between 10 to 20 times higher inside the Copenhagen Metro system compared to street level. The concentrations measured at stations were 109-168 µg m−3, exceeding EU's 25 µg m−3 standard.
Researchers at Rutgers University simulated climate change's impact on allergenic pollens, finding significant increases in airborne pollen loads by 2050. The study predicts earlier start times and longer durations for pollen seasons across the US, with notable regional shifts.
A new study published in AGU Advances found that post-lockdown auto emissions rebounded in some California areas, with affluent neighborhoods experiencing less pollution drop. The researchers used mobile laboratory data and analyzed grass samples to track CO2 levels and found significant differences between regions.
A new MIT study suggests that prioritizing polluting power plants in times of wind energy generation could quadruple the health benefits associated with wind power, resulting in $8.4 billion in nationwide health benefits. However, this approach would not address existing disparities in air pollution exposure among low-income and minori...
A new study from the University of Surrey found that behaviour change campaigns and technology can significantly reduce air pollution in schools. Implementing these interventions can lead to a reduction in outdoor nitrogen dioxide exposure by up to 23% compared to business-as-usual activities.
A new study has resolved the first molecular steps of particle formation from iodine emissions, a crucial process in atmospheric secondary particles. The research team found that iodine plays a significant role in forming clouds, providing a key piece in understanding the changing atmosphere.
A new study found that schools with more students of color and those who receive free or reduced-price lunches have higher concentrations of pollutants, exacerbating health issues such as asthma and heart disease. Long-term exposure to these pollutants can result in increased risk of hospitalization or death.
Researchers will develop a new model to describe complex soot particles in the atmosphere, improving accuracy in predicting climate warming caused by soot. The project aims to reduce uncertainty over soot's impact on climate change and air quality.
A new study by USC researchers demonstrates that high-efficiency air filtration systems can significantly improve indoor air quality. Operating such systems with portable HEPA air purifiers can maximize the removal of tiny airborne particles, reducing COVID-19 transmission risk by up to tenfold.
A new study aims to understand how an air quality alert system can help reduce the health risks posed by wood smoke in communities. Researchers are collecting data from participants who use Burner Alert, a UK-first system that provides real-time pollution levels and recommendations.
A study published in The Lancet Public Health found a clear association between tiny air pollution particles and sudden cardiac arrests in Singapore. Researchers identified a short-term effect, with reduced risk of cardiac arrests after exposure to lower PM2.5 concentrations.
Research published in Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics found that particles with two phases can form when different types of SOA mix. The number of phases depends on the difference in oxygen-to-carbon ratio between the given SOA types.
Researchers analyzed 30 years of cardiovascular mortality data from the US and UK, finding that lead exposure contributes more to CVD death risks in the US. The study also revealed a steady decline in cardiovascular deaths associated with all environmental factors in both countries.
A new study from Finland found that passenger car preheating produces significant particulate emissions equivalent to driving dozens of kilometers. The study measured auxiliary heater emissions and compared them to calculated emissions from driving, revealing the impact of preheating on air quality.
A Penn State-led researcher team found that population aging and low baseline mortality rates most impact outcomes on premature deaths due to air pollution. The study used past and projected data to model five future scenarios estimating premature deaths and identified areas of the world that could be most impacted.
The study found that fine particulate concentration levels decreased by 2-4 micrograms per cubic meter in host countries with embassy monitors. This reduction led to a significant decrease in premature mortality, resulting in annual health benefits of $127 million for the median city with an embassy monitor.
Sharing real-time air quality readings can reduce fine particulate concentration levels by 2-4 micrograms per cubic metre each year, leading to significant health benefits. The research estimates annual health benefits of $171 million AUD for the median city.
A new study by the University of Surrey found that London Underground stations have high levels of fine and coarse air pollution particles, exceeding World Health Organization guidelines. The research recommends improving ventilation on the London Underground to mitigate health risks.
A nationwide Indian study linked high PM2.5 concentrations to increased stroke risk but no excess mortality for heart disease or respiratory illness. The findings suggest that earlier models may have overstated the impact of air pollution in India.
A study found that counties with more land enrolled in the USDA's Conservation Reserve Program have lower average concentrations of particulate air pollution. This is due to reduced nitrogen compounds and dust emissions from decreased agricultural activity and increased vegetative cover.
Particle radioactivity from radon in air pollution increases toxicity and risk of death from cardiovascular disease, especially from heart attack and stroke. Researchers used spatiotemporal predictions to estimate exposure and found that higher gross beta-activity levels increased the risk of death from these conditions.
A new study found that ultrafine particle concentration decreased by 48% during the COVID-19 state-of-emergency period due to reduced aviation and road activity. This reduction corresponded with flight activity dropping by 74% and highway traffic volume decreasing by 51%.
Researchers found that air pollutants, particularly fine particles and nitrogen dioxide, increase the risk of COVID-19 hospitalizations up to 30% in vaccinated individuals. Long-term exposure also worsens outcomes, even among those fully vaccinated, highlighting the importance of improving indoor air quality.
Researchers observed a short-term 'seesaw' phenomenon in haze pollution over the North China Plain, with periods of high pollution followed by low haze levels. The study suggests that sudden changes in atmospheric movement linked to abnormal sea surface temperatures are responsible for this behavior.
A study by Colorado State University found that indoor air contains more known human toxins than outdoor air, particularly when cooking or cleaning. The research, called HOMEChem, identified compounds like benzene, formaldehyde, and acrolein as potential health risks.
A recent study reveals that anthropogenic air pollution contributes significantly to poor air quality and climate change in the Middle East. The research found that hazardous fine particulate matter from human activities accounts for around 53% of aerosol visible optical depth, posing a significant health risk.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that air pollution may trigger irregular heart rhythms in healthy teenagers, with exposure causing arrhythmias to occur within two hours. The research analyzed data from over 300 adolescents and found a significant impact of fine particulate matter on cardiac ...
A NASA initiative studies wildfire-induced air pollution by measuring atmospheric CO and O3 levels using airborne observations. The study found that CO levels increased in the plume as it was transported away from the fire site, while plume age was associated with distance in both vertical and horizontal directions.
A new study from the University of Surrey found that simple measures such as green screens, air purifiers, and school street initiatives can significantly reduce air pollution levels in classrooms and playgrounds. The research shows that these measures can cut outdoor and indoor exposure to toxins by up to 57% and 36% respectively.
A new study published in Scientific Reports shows that selectively planting vegetation between roads and playgrounds can cut toxic air pollution reaching school children. Western red cedar tredges were found to be most effective at capturing particulate matter, with almost half of black carbon and 46% of fine particles eliminated.
Researchers analyzed satellite-based data to study daily variations in air quality across 11 major US cities, revealing disproportionate impacts on economically disadvantaged communities. The findings suggest climate change could exacerbate these differences, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to reduce emissions and impr...
A new study finds that mild smog exposure during pregnancy is linked to higher risks of low birth weight, high blood pressure, and early water breaks. The research highlights the need for environmental protection measures to reduce air pollution's impact on pregnant women and their unborn children.
Climate change is intensifying Western US wildfire activity, resulting in taller smoke plumes and more aerosols injected into the atmosphere. The study models 4.6 million smoke plumes and finds that maximum plume height increased by an average of 320 ft per year in four regions, with some areas experiencing a 750 ft per year increase.
Studies found that commuting by car results in larger concentrations of pollutants for people inside the vehicle compared to walkers or cyclists. Exercise through walking or cycling has well-known health benefits and improves air quality.
A study in Slovenia's Dinaric Alps found that wood burning in winter creates temperature inversions, trapping pollutants like soot and fine dust in valley bottoms. This can lead to high levels of particulate matter comparable to city centers, posing health risks.
A new online tool from NIST offers a solution to regularly check ventilation by measuring indoor carbon dioxide levels. The Quick Indoor CO2 (QICO2) calculator takes into account factors like occupants, outdoor CO2 levels, and building size to provide accurate results.
The 'Buen Aire Para Todos' project will create a new air quality monitoring system with stationary and mobile sensors, improving data on air quality for local residents. The project aims to expand community awareness, education, and outreach to help residents better understand air quality measurements.
Researchers from the University of York discovered a link between reducing particle pollution and increasing surface ozone pollution in some emerging economies. The study found that reducing particle pollution can lead to a 20-30% increase in ozone pollution, impacting health, ecosystems, and agriculture.
Researchers at Keck School of Medicine of USC found that extreme heat and air pollution coincide to increase mortality risk by 21%. Deaths due to cardiovascular and respiratory conditions also increased significantly on days with both extreme heat and air pollution.
A new Boston-area study by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health reveals that natural gas used in homes contains varying levels of volatile organic chemicals. The research found that even small amounts of hazardous air pollutants could impact indoor air quality and degrade outdoor air quality when gas leaks occur.
A recent study found that hydroxymethanesulfonate (HMS) accounts for a significant portion of Fairbanks' fine particulate pollution, with concentrations substantially higher than observed elsewhere. The research sheds light on the causes and makeup of dirty air in the community.
Researchers developed a mathematical model to predict COVID-19 transmission in train carriages, finding that risk is constant regardless of location and that masks are more effective than social distancing in reducing transmission. The study highlights the importance of improving ventilation systems on trains to keep passengers safe.
A European map of aerosol pollution has been created to help improve human health by identifying the main sources of fine dust. The study found that residential heating with solid combustibles and traffic are major contributors to air pollution, highlighting the need for stricter regulations.
A study by Rice University finds that agricultural nitrogen emissions cause substantial damage to air quality, human health, and the climate. The researchers quantified emissions from fertilized soils over three years and found that ammonia had a much larger impact on damages than nitrogen oxides and nitrous oxide.
A new study in the Journal of Dairy Science finds that dairy cows exposed to wildfire smoke experience reduced milk production and altered immune function. The researchers observed a decrease in milk yield for seven consecutive days during the smoke exposure period, which persisted for another seven days post-exposure.
A study found that US adults receiving hemodialysis with high air pollution exposure have more heart attacks and strokes compared to those with low exposure. The strongest associations were noted among patients who were Asian, older, or had chronic lung disease at dialysis initiation.
Airports in colder climates accumulate more pollutants like PM2.5 during fall and winter months, posing a significant threat to human health and the climate. Researchers recommend targeted reduction of PM2.5 emissions, particularly in cold climate regions.
A community-led network of low-cost sensors found concerning levels of air pollution in Belmont County, Ohio, exceeding WHO guidelines on many days. The study highlights the limitations of EPA sensors and suggests a clear link between fracking and poor air quality.
A new study by University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers suggests that eliminating air pollution emissions from energy-related activities in the United States would prevent over 50,000 premature deaths each year. The study also found that this action could provide more than $600 billion in benefits annually from avoided illness and d...
A new study from McGill University finds that people living near regions prone to wildfires may have a higher incidence of lung cancer and brain tumors. Exposure to carcinogenic wildfire pollutants on a chronic basis increases the risk of certain cancers, according to researchers.
An anti-idling campaign at two elementary schools reduced idling time by 38% and improved air quality, according to a study published in the Atmosphere journal. The campaign, which involved teachers and parents, also found localized pollution hotspots around schools caused by car emissions.
Research using a network model and air pollution data before and during COVID-19 outbreaks found that surrounding traffic conditions influenced air quality in certain cities. Pollution tended to peak in cities as they contained the virus, with some cities experiencing worse air quality than ever.
A Belgian study found high levels of respiratory pathogens in air samples from nurseries, schools, and nursing homes during winter. The most frequently identified pathogens were Streptococcus pneumoniae, human bocavirus, and entero-/rhinovirus.