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Table of Contents
- Understanding Atmospheric Circulation
- Atmospheric Circulation and Its Effect on Air Pollutio
- What Can You Do About Air Pollution Caused by Atmospheric Circulation?
According to the 2023 European Environment Agency’s report[1], air pollution levels continue to pose a grave threat to public health. Astonishingly, this report uncovers a pretty grim reality: air pollution is responsible for more than 1,200 premature deaths annually among children in Europe alone.
While most of us can readily identify the primary culprits behind this problem – exhaust fumes, industrial processes, and burning of fossil fuels, to name just three – there is one surprising factor that seems to play an impressively significant role in increasing air pollution levels – atmospheric circulation.
Remember this year’s wildfires in Canada[2] that impacted the air quality in New York, Long Island and southeast Connecticut, turning it yellow? This is exactly what atmospheric circulation can do to the air we breathe in.
To better understand this intricate relationship between atmospheric circulation and air pollution, let’s take a closer look at what the former actually is.
Understanding Atmospheric Circulation
Atmospheric circulation, in simpler terms, is how the air moves around the Earth’s surface. It’s powered by things like temperature differences and the Earth’s spin. This movement greatly influences our weather and how air pollutants spread.
Atmospheric Circulation and Its Effect on Air Pollution
Imagine a city situated in a valley surrounded by high mountains. Due to the city’s topography, the surrounding mountains block the flow of air. During certain weather conditions, such as temperature inversions, the warm air close to the ground can become trapped within the valley. This stagnant air prevents pollutants from dispersing into the upper atmosphere.
In this trapped air, the city’s industrial processes, vehicle emissions, and other sources release pollutants. Without the ability to disperse vertically into the atmosphere, these pollutants accumulate close to the ground. As a result, the city suffers from a significant increase in air pollution levels. Result? Poor air quality.
This is just one example of how atmospheric circulation affects air pollution.
What Can You Do About Air Pollution Caused by Atmospheric Circulation?
To combat air pollution driven by atmospheric circulation, consider using air quality sensors. These devices provide real-time data on local air quality. With such data, it’s much easier for local governments to take prompt action when the pollution levels exceed safety limits. Such an approach helps local authorities protect public health, improve environmental conditions, and enhance the overall well-being of their communities.
source [1]: https://www.eea.europa.eu/en/newsroom/news/air-pollution-levels-across-europe
source [2]: https://www.nytimes.com/2023/10/02/us/canada-wildfires-smoke-new-york-air.html