Undoubtedly, trees play an important role in reducing air pollution in urban areas. However, their contribution alone is not sufficient. While trees are generally beneficial, they can also have negative effects. In some cases, they hinder the dispersion and transport of air pollutants and may even emit gases that exacerbate air pollution.
(more…)-
Frozen Fallout: Nuclear Pollution in the Arctic
During the Fukushima nuclear accident on March 11, 2011, radioactive material was released into terrestrial, marine, and freshwater environments. Some of the airborne contaminants were deposited on land areas of Japan through precipitation, while most of the remainder fell over the North Pacific Ocean. Less than 2% of the total fallout was deposited in areas outside Japan.
(more…)
-
Arctic Haze: A Consequence of Urban Air Pollution
Major urban and industrial areas are often hotspots for air pollution. This is unsurprising, given that dense populations and economic activities in these areas often result in the concentration of emission sources. When smog disperses over these heavily polluted areas, air pollutants can travel far beyond their original sources, reaching remote areas such as the North Pole.
(more…)
-
Environmental Footprint of Electric Vehicles
Modern electric cars have gained a well-deserved reputation for being environmentally friendly. However, their “green” image is not entirely accurate. While they produce no tailpipe emissions, electric vehicles still indirectly contribute to global warming, although not to the same extent as fossil fuel-powered vehicles.
(more…)
-
Decoding Mucus Colors: Best Left to Your Doctor
Mucus, a watery secretion produced by your body, can vary in color. While it’s typically clear, it may change color when you’re sick. But can you diagnose a disease just by observing the color of your mucus? Not really.
While it’s true that specific diseases or chronic conditions may be linked to particular mucus colors, various factors—like infections, allergens, inflammation, lung diseases, smoking, and exposure to cold air or air pollution particles—can bring about changes in color. Therefore, doctors depend on other clues for an accurate diagnosis.■
What I Learned Today 