Air travel exposes passengers to hidden pollution: Study
As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, air travel has become an essential mode of transportation for millions of people around the globe. However, a recent study has revealed that air travel may come with a hidden cost to our health and the environment. The study found that air travellers are exposed to unexpectedly high levels of ultrafine particles and black carbon, which can have serious health implications. In this blog post, we will delve into the details of the study and explore the impact of air travel on pollution levels.
The study, which measured pollution levels on 16 European flights, found that passengers are exposed to high levels of pollution during certain phases of flight. The measurements showed that pollution spikes occur during boarding, taxiing, and descent, with levels easing at cruising altitude. However, the pollution levels rise again on landing, exposing passengers to a second wave of pollutants. The study’s findings have significant implications for air travellers, as well as people living in nearby neighbourhoods.
One of the most concerning aspects of the study is the high levels of ultrafine particles (UFPs) that passengers are exposed to during flight. UFPs are tiny particles that are less than 0.1 micrometres in diameter and can penetrate deep into the lungs, causing inflammation and damage. The study found that UFP levels are highest during boarding and taxiing, when the plane is still on the ground and the engines are running. These levels can be up to 100 times higher than background levels, posing a significant health risk to passengers.
In addition to UFPs, the study also found high levels of black carbon, a known carcinogen, on flights. Black carbon is a byproduct of incomplete combustion and is often associated with diesel engines. The study found that black carbon levels are highest during descent and landing, when the plane is using its engines to slow down and touch down on the runway. Like UFPs, black carbon can have serious health implications, including increased risk of cancer and respiratory disease.
The study’s findings are not just limited to passengers on the plane. The researchers also found that the pollution from air travel can spread kilometres beyond airports, affecting nearby neighbourhoods. This is similar to the pollution from busy urban roads, where pollutants from vehicles can accumulate and cause health problems for people living in the surrounding area. The study’s findings suggest that air travel is not just a problem for passengers, but also for people living in nearby communities.
So, what can be done to reduce the pollution from air travel? One possible solution is to improve the efficiency of aircraft engines, which would reduce the amount of pollutants emitted during flight. Airlines could also consider using alternative fuels, such as biofuels, which produce fewer emissions than traditional fossil fuels. Additionally, airports could implement measures to reduce pollution from ground operations, such as using electric or hybrid vehicles for ground transportation.
Another important step is to raise awareness about the issue of air travel pollution. Many passengers are unaware of the high levels of pollution they are exposed to during flight, and may take steps to reduce their exposure if they knew the risks. Airlines and airports could provide information to passengers about the pollution levels on flights and offer tips on how to minimize exposure.
In conclusion, the study’s findings highlight the need for greater awareness and action to reduce the pollution from air travel. As the demand for air travel continues to grow, it is essential that we take steps to mitigate the negative impacts on our health and the environment. By improving engine efficiency, using alternative fuels, and reducing pollution from ground operations, we can make air travel a healthier and more sustainable mode of transportation.
The study’s findings also have implications for policy makers and regulators. Governments and regulatory bodies could establish stricter emissions standards for aircraft and airports, and provide incentives for airlines and airports to adopt cleaner technologies. Additionally, policymakers could consider implementing measures to reduce air travel demand, such as increasing taxes on air travel or promoting alternative modes of transportation.
In the end, reducing the pollution from air travel will require a collective effort from airlines, airports, policymakers, and passengers. By working together, we can create a healthier and more sustainable air travel system that benefits everyone.
News Source: https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/air-travel-exposes-passengers-and-neighbors-to-hidden-pollution/tldr
About the Author
