The air quality issue is not limited to countries like India and China; the United States has its fair share of problems when it comes to air pollution. In fact, air pollution is still a major problem in many areas of the United States, despite improvements in recent years.
One of the worst air pollution incidents in recent history occurred in California, where wildfires have become increasingly frequent due to climate change. In 2020, the state recorded some of the highest levels of dangerous particulate matter in the world, with smoke and haze making it difficult to see and breathe. Many people had to evacuate their homes, and some were even hospitalized due to fire-related respiratory illnesses.
Other parts of the United States are also subject to high levels of air pollution. In cities like Los Angeles and New York, smog and traffic-related pollution can lead to a range of health problems, from asthma to cancer.
Most recently, for about two weeks in June the air quality outside in the northeastern region of the U.S. was either bad or dangerous. This was due to smoke from Canadian wildfires. This smoke blanketed parts of Northern Virginia, the D.C. area and Hampton Roads creating a Code Red air quality alert.
This meant the air was unhealthy for people with heart or lung disease, older adults, children, teens and even pets. Outdoor activity was to be avoided to say the least. The smoke also caused low visibility and flight delays in the same areas aforementioned.
AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Thomas Kines said the worst of the smoke was across New York State, Pennsylvania and New Jersey “where visibility is greatly reduced, and the odor of smoke is very noticeable.”
Although there wasn’t much that could be done for this particular air quality issue aside from staying inside until things have settled, in general terms of ensuring that air quality stays safe, individuals can take steps to improve air quality by reducing energy consumption, properly disposing of hazardous waste, and using environmentally-friendly products.
In conclusion, air pollution is not only a problem for developing countries; it is also a concern here in the United States. While the government has taken action to reduce pollution through regulations and standards, it is also important for individuals to make changes in their own lives to help improve air quality. By working together, we can create a healthier and more sustainable environment for ourselves and the planet.
