We all know that the most common causes of air pollutionare vehicles, industrial waste and pollution, forest fires, unpaved roads and household combustion devices. The pollutants found in them are particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, ozone, and sulphur dioxide. Some pollutant particles can be seen with the naked eyes, while others can only be detected with the help of an electron microscope. No matter what type of air pollutant it is, these particles are harmful to everyone, especially children who are most susceptible to its dangerous effects. In order to protect children from these air pollutants, follow these basic ways to reduce pollutant particles from your surroundings.
Dr Krishan Chugh, director and HOD, Paeds and PICU and Dr Neetu Talwar, senior consultant, PaedsPulmonoly, Fortis Memorial Research Institute share some effective tips to protect children from air pollution:
- Use of efficient stoves for safe cooking practices
- Avoid active and passive smoking both
- Use of efficient and low pollution vehicles
- Proper maintenance of your personal vehicles
- Using fan over air conditioners
- Walking or riding a bicycle, whenever possible
- Recycling paper, plastic, metals, and organic materials
- Washing laundry in cold water and line drying your laundry
- Replacing incandescent lights with compact florescent light bulbs
- Use of durable and sustainable bags instead of polythene bags
- Adding insulation to your homes
- Eating locally, shopping at farmer's markets and buying organic produce
- Initiating Walking clubs, Cycling clubs, Nature walk clubs, Car-pooling clubs, Tree plantation, Gardening and anything that help reduce air pollution and increase green cover.
And last but not the least, going green. Plant trees and if possible place more and more indoor plants.
