Air pollution is the introduction of chemicals, particulate matter, or biological materials that cause harm or discomfort to humans or other living organisms, or cause damage to the natural environment or built environment, into the atmosphere.4 Air pollution can be found both outdoors and indoors. Pollutants can be trapped inside buildings, causing indoor pollution that lasts for a long time. The sources of air pollution are both natural and human-based. As one might expect, humans have been producing increasing amounts of pollution as time has progressed, and they now account for the majority of pollutants released into the air.

Types of Air Pollution

Based on the possible reasons, air pollution could be classified into

Accidental air pollutionIndustrial air pollutionTransport related air pollutionDwelling related air pollution

1. Excessive burning of fossil fuels like coal, Kerosene, Petrol and Diesel.

2. Smoke from factories and thermal power stations.3. Deforestation 4. Use of certain substances like CFC (chlorofluorocarbons) in

refrigerators and spray cans.5. Gases like Carbon monoxide , Carbon monoxide , Nitrogen

dioxide ,etc. are released from vehicles, industries ,etc.

Effects of Air Pollution are:1. It causes diseases like:1.Dizziness2.Headache3.Eye irritation4.Coughing5.Sore throat6.Chest pain7.Allergies8.Lung diseases

2.Acid rain3.Greenhouse effect

Vehicle Care: Timely servicing of the car helps to keep it in a good condition and also minimizes fuel exhaust and air pollution.

Public Transport: Whenever possible, try to travel by public transports. This helps in two ways; prevents air pollution and increases public income. If you are going to a nearby place, go by walking or use bicycle, instead of using your vehicle

Alternative Energy Source: Another effective way to prevent air pollution is to use alternative energy sources such as solar energy, hydroelectric energy and wind energy

Saving Energy: Saving energy will, of course, help to prevent air pollution. Switch off the lights, fans, air conditioners, televisions, and other appliances, when not in use. You can also share a room with others when the air conditioner or fan is on, instead of switching them on in every room

Minimize Air Pollutants: Always try to minimize smoke emission, as it can contribute to air pollution. One way is to compost dried leaves and kitchen waste, instead of burning them.

Social awareness about air pollution is the most essential step to be taken for the

prevention of air pollution. Awareness programs and/or advertisements should be encouraged, so that people understand the potential health hazards of air pollution.