How Pollution and Climate Change Can Harmed Your Well-Being

Pollution and climate change are impacting our well-being, becoming increasingly apparent. Studies have shown that poor air quality and the effects of global warming affect the health of individuals, communities, and populations. 

From an increase in respiratory illnesses to higher risks of cardiovascular diseases and even psychological effects, the health implications of pollution and climate change should not be taken lightly. 

This article will explore how pollution and climate change can harm your well-being and what steps can be taken to mitigate these impacts. We will go over how air pollution, water pollution, and other environmental issues can affect our physical and mental health and what measures can be taken to combat the effects of pollution and climate change. 

Understanding the risks and solutions to the health impacts of pollution and climate change is critically important for everyone to ensure a healthier future for all.

Understand Climate Change 

Climate change is the change in attributable climate patterns directly or indirectly connected with human activity. 

Because of changes in these patterns, certain atmospheric gases like carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide are rising, thus increasing overall global temperature. This effect is called the greenhouse effect.

Because of the greenhouse effect, specific changes in the earth’s system, like ice melting, rising sea levels, irregular seasons, and much more, can be observed.

The biggest concern of climate change is the rise in global temperature because everything is correlated with it. The increase in global temperature will result in melting pole ice, rising sea levels and then further disasters. Hence the current focus is being given by many organisations to control temperature by putting different curbs. 

Currently, global temperature is already risen by 1.1ºC resulting in the different threats mentioned above. By 2030 around 700 million people will be at risk of living in drought-like conditions because of the temperature rise. 

Facts regarding climate change 

• The years 2015 to 2021 were the seven warmest on record so far.
• The global annual mean temperature is estimated to increase by 1.5ºC in the next five years. 
• About one-third of land areas will suffer a moderate drought by 2100.
• About 70 to 90% of warm-water coral reefs will disappear on the temperature rise, thus disturbing marine life.

How does Climate Change Affect You, and Who Is at Risk?

We can feel the impact of climate change around us, from the more intense and frequent heatwaves, floods and bushfires to the decrease in air quality, shifts in the transmission of infectious diseases, the uncertainties around food and water supply, and even the toll it takes on our mental wellbeing.

Climate change poses many risks to children due to their heightened vulnerability. For instance, they are more prone to heat stress, dehydration, air pollution, and smoke inhalation from bushfires. Additionally, their underdeveloped immune systems make them more prone to infection.

Pregnant ladies are especially vulnerable to overheating during sweltering weather because of the physical demands of pregnancy. Moreover, they and their unborn offspring are susceptible to the toxins that come from a smoke and air pollution, especially during bushfire season.

Elderly individuals and those with pre-existing medical issues are more likely to suffer from dehydration, heat stroke, infectious diseases, and an increase in cardiovascular and pulmonary complications. 

Furthermore, people in rural, distant, and coastal areas can be particularly prone to extreme weather conditions such as wildfires, droughts, and storms. 

How to Stay Safe From Climate Change and Pollution 

• Always try to stay hydrated.
• Include healthy and safe food in your diet.
• Keep yourself safe from air pollution by wearing a mask whenever you go out.
• Keep your mental health a priority and stay away from stress.

Read more – Best and easy yoga postures for mental health

How You Can Contribute to reversing climate change

• Walk whenever possible or prefer electric vehicles.
• Avoid packaged water and foods, and choose homemade food.
• Avoid using plastic.
• Promote the use of biofuels.

Takeaway Message

In conclusion, pollution and climate change are significant threats to our well-being. The physical and mental health impacts of pollution and other environmental issues can be devastating. 

Fortunately, some measures can be taken to mitigate these impacts, such as reducing our carbon footprint, investing in green energy sources, and conserving natural resources. 

We must take action to protect the environment and ensure a healthier, more sustainable future.

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Disclaimer

The information in this article is accurate to our best knowledge; we recommend you consult your healthcare professional before practising any information mentioned in this article.

References

• https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/climate-change-and-health 
• https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/climate-change-and-health 
• https://www.cdc.gov/climateandhealth/effects/default.htm