Deutsch: Smog / Español: Smog / Português: Smog / Français: Smog / Italiano: Smog /

The smog is a dense, discolored radiation fog containing large quantities of soot, ash, and gaseous pollutants such as sulfur dioxide and carbon dioxide, responsible for human respiratory ailments.

Most industrialized nations have implemented legislation to promote the use of smokeless fuel and reduce emission of toxic gases into the atmosphere.

Description

Smog refers to a type of air pollution that occurs when pollutants like nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds react in the atmosphere under sunlight to form ground-level ozone and fine particulate matter. This mixture of pollutants creates a hazy, smoke-like fog that hangs over cities and urban areas, reducing visibility and posing serious health risks to the population. Smog is often exacerbated by factors such as vehicle emissions, industrial processes, and weather conditions that trap pollutants close to the ground. It can have widespread environmental impacts, affecting ecosystems, agricultural productivity, and even contributing to climate change.

Application Areas

• Urban planning and development
• Public health and environmental policy
• Air quality monitoring and regulation
• Transportation and infrastructure management

Treatment and Risks

• Implementing emission control measures for vehicles and industries
• Promoting the use of cleaner fuels and technologies
• Adopting sustainable urban planning practices
• Health risks include respiratory problems, cardiovascular diseases, and exacerbation of existing conditions

Examples

• The infamous London smog of 1952 that led to thousands of deaths
• The persistent smog problem in major cities like Beijing and Delhi
• The photochemical smog seen during hot summer days in Los Angeles

Similar Concepts and Synonyms

• Air pollution
• Haze
• Polluted fog

Weblinks

• umweltdatenbank.de: 'Smog' im Lexikon der umweltdatenbank.de (German)
• umweltdatenbank.de: 'Smog' im Lexikon der umweltdatenbank.de (German)

Summary

Smog is a harmful type of air pollution resulting from the interaction of pollutants in the atmosphere, posing significant health risks and environmental challenges. Addressing smog requires comprehensive measures to control emissions, promote clean technologies, and improve urban planning. It is crucial to raise awareness about the impacts of smog on public health and the environment to drive positive change towards cleaner air quality.

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