London is well known internationally for having dangerously high air pollution. The Capital regularly sees spikes in air quality degradation, and they have wide-reaching effects and impacts on the health and quality of life of London residents. Air pollution is any airborne chemicals or particles that harm the health of humans, animals, and plants while also having the capacity to damage buildings. Pollutants may take a gas, solid particle, or liquid droplet form.
According to the London Mayor’s Office, Air pollution is “substances in the air that harm human health, welfare, plant or animal life.” City Hall commissioned the Imperial College in London to assess the health impacts of air quality policies and London air pollution in London, based on 2019 and future levels up to 2050. You can read the study’s key findings here, but in a nutshell, it highlights the dangers and the need to reduce pollution levels.
Sources of Air Pollution in London
Most pollution in London is caused by road transport, but commercial large city emissions are varied, and different sources put out different levels of chemicals and concentrations.
In addition, London’s smog bank and murky air can make it hard to breathe for many, and when pollution spikes, it’s more likely to create critical emergencies, not just long term health issues.
Indoor Air Pollution in London
Air pollution is usually associated with factories and exhaust fumes, but indoor air pollution is a significant issue in the Capital, especially during spiked times.
Home heating with various combustion methods can contaminate air, while construction materials, including insulation, pose health risks. In addition, inadequate ventilation, toxic mould, or dampness can up the issues.
In fact, indoor air in London is often more harmful than being outside on a smoggy day.
Effects On Humans
Pollution is well documented to have adverse health effects. Short-term illnesses can include pneumonia or bronchitis, irritation to the nose, throat, eyes, or skin, and headaches, dizziness, and nausea.
The long-term effects can last a lifetime and include heart disease, lung cancer, emphysema, and damage to people’s nervous systems and vital organs.
Reduction of London Air Pollution
While international WHO initiatives and agreements such as the Kyoto protocol put guidelines in place to tackle the problem at a governmental and worldwide level, there are steps individuals can take too. Simple daily changes such as taking public transportation instead of driving, riding a bike instead of travelling in carbon dioxide-emitting vehicles, and walking instead of all of the above are simple changes to get you started.
Keep Your Air and Space in London That Bit Cleaner
Cleaning air filtration systems is a vital component in keeping air quality sufficient for breathing during a pollution spike. If you need professional help for your home or business needs, reach out to Grease Gone Commercial Cleaning London. We will help maintain your space, including cleaning ventilation systems and air vents. Call us for further details on how we can help with your requirements or if you would like to receive a quote.
