Community initiatives like having a car-free day can help to cut emissions, as well as raise awareness on what individuals can do to help reduce air pollution. — FilepicWhen fossil fuels are burned for energy, transportation and industrial processes, they release various pollutants into the atmosphere.
Changes in weather patterns, such as altered wind directions and precipitation rates, can affect the dispersion and concentration of air pollutants. In a landmark case, a coroner ruled that the death of a nine-year-old child who died in London in 2013 was due to air pollution exposure. Studies have shown that long-term exposure to high levels of air pollution is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular mortality .
This led to the release of the Air Pollution Action Plan in 2013, which was focused on controlling PM2.5 levels.Technological advancements are vital for reducing emissions from industrial activities, transportation and energy production. The Kuala Lumpur City Hall for example, took the bold step more than a decade ago to implement a car-free morning for certain roads in the city, which is now a permanent weekly feature.