Air Pollution in Europe

A new study released by the European Environment Agency (EEA) found that most residents of European cities are breathing toxic pollutants that are exceeding international health standards. Air found to be the most toxic is located in the eastern countries of Bulgaria and Romania; however, most urban areas contain unhealthy levels of pollutants like ozone, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter. The main source of these pollutants stems from the transportation, energy, and agriculture. The unhealthy levels of pollutants can have widespread effects on both human and ecological health. Reports show that one third of city dwellers are exposed to excessive levels of airborne particulate matter. Reports also show that breathing unhealthy air may be the cause of nearly 500,000 premature deaths. Air pollution also has damaging effects on plants and can contribute to the corrosion of buildings. Reducing pollution in Europe has been an issue the country’s been working on; however, air pollution is still a major problem. This is causing some environmental and health advocacy groups to demand stricter regulations for air pollution which would make the EU standards sync with World Health Organization standards.

 

 

This image shows one of the many causes of pollution in Europe. This industrial plant is one of the many sources contributing to pollution in Europe. These plants affect almost every aspect of the biosphere, including: the atmosphere, land, rivers, and seas.

Article Source: http://www.enn.com/pollution/article/44995

Image Source: http://www.hardrainproject.com/thumbnail.php?im=SP1108575.011.jpg&type=U