Now that summer is among us and the temperatures are escalating, so is the smog, especially in larger cities, such as Atlanta. With this comes many health problems, such as asthma, and other respiratory complications.
The smog that is found in the air is a dangerous type of ozone that has a dangerous effect on about one third of the population. This type of ground ozone is enhanced and is seen more in the summer because of the reaction that takes place between the ozone precussors ( harmful pollutants and chemicals put into the air), which is caused predominatly by cars, but also includes industrial factories, and the evaporation of cleaners, paints and other chemicals.
This groundlevel of smog we have acquired is not natural and is only suppose to be seen in the higher elevated parts of our stmosphere to help block ultra violet rays from earth. The ozone we are experiencing on the ground is caused when nitrogen and volatile organic compounds react in sunlight and in heat.
Not only is this type of ozone harmful to humans but it's harmful to plants as well. Smog accounts for 1- 2 billions dollars of damage in U.S. 's crops a year, which also results in inflation of certain fruits and vegetables in the summer.
To help decrese smog in the summer, Air Now recommends that you drive less, car pool, tune your car regularly and tightly seal lids to chemicals. To see if you're at risk or in the sensitive category for repiratory problems attributed by smog visit this site.
No comments:
Post a Comment