Dhaka, the bustling capital of Bangladesh, recently ranked 13th in the world for poor air quality, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) score of 122. This level is considered "unhealthy for sensitive groups," meaning those with existing health issues are more at risk.
In fact, cities like Kathmandu, Dubai, and Chiang Mai have even worse air quality, with AQI scores soaring to 184, 171, and 159 respectively. This situation highlights a growing global concern about air pollution, which has serious implications for health.
The AQI is a crucial tool that measures air quality by evaluating five pollutants: particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and ozone. When air quality is moderate (AQI 50-100), most people can go about their day without worry. However, once it reaches the "unhealthy for sensitive groups" level (AQI 101-150), vulnerable individuals should limit outdoor activities. A score above 301 is deemed hazardous and presents severe health risks.
Experts warn that air pollution is not just a local issue—it’s a global health crisis. According to the World Health Organization, air pollution is responsible for about seven million deaths each year, primarily due to conditions like heart disease and respiratory illnesses.
In Dhaka, air quality tends to decline during the winter months and improve slightly during the monsoon. This seasonal variation further complicates the city’s battle against pollution. Local environmental activists emphasize the need for stronger policies and community awareness to combat this growing threat.
As more people take to social media to raise awareness of air quality issues, it’s clear that urban pollution is becoming a pressing topic for many. Solutions range from enhancing public transport to reducing industrial emissions, showcasing a collective effort needed to clean our air.
To stay informed about air quality, resources like AirVisual provide real-time updates, helping residents make healthier choices. The challenge is significant, but awareness and cooperation can help build a cleaner future for urban areas like Dhaka.
Source link
New Age, The New Age, Daily New Age, Bangladesh Newspaper, Most Popular Outspoken
Check out this related article: Confronting Climate Inequality: Understanding the Unnatural Disasters Shaping Our Future in Costa Rica
English Daily Newpaper in Bangladesh, Bangladeshi Newspapers, Bangladesh News, Latest Bangladesh News, Bangladesh Latest News, Bangla Online News