All articles tagged with #fine particulate matter
The Environmental Protection Agency has tightened limits on fine industrial particles, a common and deadly form of air pollution, for the first time in a decade, lowering the annual standard to nine micrograms per cubic meter of air. The new rule is expected to prevent 4,500 premature deaths annually and deliver $46 billion in net health benefits, but industry leaders are likely to challenge it, citing potential economic harm.
Air pollution, specifically fine particulate matter, ozone, and nitrogen-dioxide, caused hundreds of thousands of premature deaths in the European Union (EU) in 2021, falling short of World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations, according to a report by the European Environment Agency. Fine particulate matter was responsible for the most deaths in Poland, Italy, and Germany. While the number of deaths caused by air pollution has decreased since 2005, it remains a significant problem. The EU is urged to adopt and implement legislation to improve air quality and bring it closer to WHO standards.
A groundbreaking study led by researchers at Barrow Neurological Institute has found a strong association between air pollution and the incidence of Parkinson's disease. People living in regions with median levels of air pollution have a 56% higher risk of developing Parkinson's disease compared to those in regions with the lowest levels. The study also revealed regional variations in the relationship, with the Mississippi-Ohio River Valley identified as a hotspot. The research highlights the need for stricter policies to reduce air pollution levels and decrease the risk of Parkinson's disease and other associated illnesses.
Chronic exposure to air pollution, specifically fine particulate matter, has been consistently associated with an increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease, according to a study by researchers at the Harvard Chan School of Public Health. The study found that this risk applies even at levels below the current Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standard. Fine particulate matter, which includes dirt, dust, soot, and smoke, is created by various sources such as cars, coal fires, factories, and construction sites. The study highlights the need for stricter regulations to protect people from the health risks associated with air pollution.
With the increase in smoke due to wildfires, people are checking the Air Quality Index for their area. The Onondaga County Health Commissioner advises people to take action based on the color of the index. The index is monitoring particulate matter, specifically fine particulate matter, which can be harmful to health. It is important to stay informed and take necessary precautions to protect oneself.
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and State Department of Health have issued an Air Quality Health Advisory for several regions in New York, including Long Island, New York City Metro, Eastern Lake Ontario, Central New York, and Western New York, due to high levels of fine particulate matter. Exposure to this pollutant can cause short-term health effects and worsen medical conditions such as asthma and heart disease. New Yorkers are urged to take energy-saving and pollution-reducing steps, such as using mass transit instead of driving and minimizing outdoor and indoor sources of PM 2.5.