What is air pollution?

Air pollution is a type of pollution caused by the combustion of toxic gases (carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides, sulfur oxides and ozone) and chemical particles. Most of these are released in the combustion processes of automobiles and in industrial processes, although faulty heating in homes and the burning of coal are also causes of this. The consequences of air pollution are poor air quality and the risk of different diseases due to toxic components released into the air. Some of these pathologies can be cardiovascular problems, respiratory diseases, cerebrovascular accidents and lung cancer among others.

Countries like the United States, China, Russia and India are the most polluting, representing 55% of CO2 emissions worldwide. Two weeks ago, New Delhi, the capital city of India, had to return to teleworking and virtual education due to high levels of air pollution.

Air pollution in Argentina:

Although Argentina does not enter the top 5 of the most affected countries in the American continent, it has serious air pollution problems. It is estimated that 15,000 people die annually from this type of contamination, of which 85 are children. The most affected regions are the Cuyo Region, which receives pollution from Chile through the Andes mountain range, and the Pampean Region, where the country's productive center is located. The most affected cities are: Autonomous City of Buenos Aires, Greater Buenos Aires, Córdoba, Rosario, Mendoza, San Juan, among others.

Now I leave some actions proposed by the UN to improve air conditions on the planet:

Use public transport or carpool, get around by bike or just walk.

Switch to a hybrid or electric vehicle and when you take a taxi, try to make it electric.

Turn off the car engine when you are stopped.

Reduce the consumption of meat and dairy products; you will help reduce methane emissions from livestock.

Compost organic food and recycle non-organic garbage.

Switch to high-efficiency home heating systems and equipment.

Save energy; Turn off lights and electronics when you're not using them.

Never burn trash; would contribute to increasing air pollution.

Choose non-toxic paint.