smog
Credit: keso s/Flickr
Pollution from China's smog cleanup leads to unexpected ocean warming
Recent research reveals that China's air pollution cleanups have inadvertently contributed to extreme heat waves in the Pacific Ocean.
In short:
- The reduction of smog particles in China, while beneficial for public health, has contributed to extreme ocean warming events known as "The Blob."
- Aerosol emissions, which shield the planet from solar radiation, are declining globally, leading to unexpected climate impacts, including more intense regional heatwaves.
- The cleanup of air pollution in China has altered atmospheric patterns, intensifying warming in the Pacific and potentially leading to larger climatic disruptions.
Key quote:
“Without the cooling effect of the aerosols, the world would already have reached the 1.5- degree temperature threshold of ‘dangerous’ climate change as set out by the Paris agreement.”
— Johannes Quaas, meteorologist at the University of Leipzig and former IPCC lead author
Why this matters:
This finding highlights a complex trade-off in environmental policy: while cleaning up air pollution improves health outcomes, it can also accelerate global warming and exacerbate extreme weather events. Read more: A new monitor could revolutionize the way air pollution is regulated.
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Credit:Iofoto/Big Stock Photo
Colorado faces intense lobbying over new air quality bills aimed at reducing smog
A contentious battle unfolds as lobbyists from various sectors clash over a legislative package designed to tackle Colorado's smog issues through stricter air pollution controls.
In short:
- Democratic legislators have proposed a trio of bills to revamp air pollution regulation in Colorado, aiming to combat the persistent summer smog.
- Environmental groups back the legislation, while the oil and gas industry and business entities strongly oppose, fearing economic repercussions.
- The bills propose enhanced regulatory authority, increased penalties for polluters, and a temporary halt to drilling during high ozone levels.
Key quote:
“GCC is focused on the future of greenhouse gas reductions and sustainability, and none of these bills support our work to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve the environment, or protect the community in which we operate."
— Adam DeVo, attorney for GCC, a Glendale-based company that produces cement and other products for the construction industry
Why this matters:
These legislative efforts address the pressing health issue of ozone pollution, which exacerbates respiratory conditions and affects the quality of life. The outcome of this legislative battle will set a precedent for how environmental concerns are balanced with industrial and economic interests in Colorado.
Exposure to air pollution over long periods of time is linked to premature deaths via heart disease and COPD; while short term exposure is linked to reduced lung function, increased hospital visits due to breathing problems and restricted blood flow to the heart.
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Credit: Jim Fruchterman/Flickr
Bangladesh capital most polluted as toxic smog engulfs South Asian cities
Capitals of India and Bangladesh see thick layers of toxic smog, ‘very poor’ air quality as normal lives are affected.
Photo by Marek Piwnicki on Unsplash
Supreme Court to review EPA’s power to curb downwind pollution
The Supreme Court on Wednesday said that it will review the Biden administration’s plan to limit smog-forming pollutants from power plants and other industrial facilities that cause problems for their downwind neighbors in other states.
Photo by Matt Hoffman on Unsplash
Why indoor air pollution can be just as deadly as wildfire smoke and coal plant smog
Household air pollution is a hidden source of death and illness and climate change seems to be making it worse.
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Coal power, traffic, waste burning a toxic smog cocktail in Indonesia's Jakarta
Pollution is causing respiratory illnesses and deaths to rise in Indonesia's island of Java, including the capital, Jakarta.
Report: Lawn equipment spews ‘shocking’ amount of air pollution
“Really inefficient engine technology is pound for pound more polluting than cars and trucks.”
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