Ways to reduce the air pollution by Madiha Zahid

Air pollution is one of the biggest problems faced by Pakistan. Pakistan is one of the most polluted countries in the world. In the year 2023, IQ Air Which measures air quality levels based on lung-damaging airborne particles reported that Pakistan stood third among the countries with the most polluted air. Lahore is the most polluted city. 

Air pollution is mainly caused by emissions from vehicles and industries. Agriculture-related crop burning accounts for only 20% of all pollutants. While Transport accounts for around 43%. Air pollution causes various health problems like coughing, headache and dizziness. It creates not only smog but also decreases the amount of sunlight that reaches the earth. As sunlight is the major component of photosynthesis in getting plants, forests and crops. It will dwindle. Although Pakistan NCAP, National Clean Air Policy aims to reduce air pollution in Pakistan, improve air quality, improve citizens' health and ensure food security but still air pollution is not under control. 

Some possible solutions to reduce air pollution on the industrial level are given below:

1. Replacing fossil fuels with alternative energies like solar, wind and geothermal.

2. Reduce consumption of energy. 

3. Introduction of load-free gasoline and phasing out sulfur from diesel for providing clean fuels. 

4. Provision of continuous water monitoring and mobile laboratories in six cities ( Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar, Quetta, Rawalpindi and Islamabad ). 

Apart from industries, we can also take some practical steps to reduce air pollution which is mentioned here:

1. Drive less and walk instead of it and use public transportation wherever possible.

2. Maintain wood stove or fireplace. 

3. Buy recycled products.

4. Grow your own food. 

5. Minimize air pollution from cars.

6. Plant trees. 

7. Raise awareness. 

8. Use natural products. 

9. Don't smoke indoors. 

10. Keep indoor humidity low.

11. Use air purifiers. 

Apart from these, NCAP should take some more steps to reduce air pollution. 

Madiha Zahid 

Riphah International University