Air Quality is Deteriorating, Bali Threatened by Air Pollution

Tackling bad air pollution requires global collaboration. Countries, local governments, industries, and communities need to participate in efforts to reduce pollutant emissions and improve air quality. Investments in clean technologies, promotion of sustainable transportation, and the use of renewable energy sources are some steps that can be taken. Public awareness also plays a key role in combating air pollution. By understanding the harmful impacts of air pollution and taking actions in their daily lives, every individual can be part of the solution.

Based on data from the IQAir website, Indonesia is included in the list of the top 10 countries with the worst air pollution, making it one of the countries in Southeast Asia with the highest levels of air pollution. The capital of Indonesia is in the media spotlight, What about the Island of the Gods, Bali?  Based on IQAir's situr, Friday, August 29, 2023, a number of districts on the island of Bali have air quality that tends to be moderate, but not Badung Regency. The increase in population and transportation is one of the factors of Air Pollution in Bali. Bad air pollution can get into the lungs and even into the bloodstream, causing respiratory problems, heart disease, and other health impacts.

    

Why Air Pollution Is Getting Worse:

1. Increased Industrial and Transportation Activities: Economic growth and population increase contribute to increased industrial and transportation activities, resulting in the emission of air pollutants such as particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, and ozone.
2. Fossil Fuel Combustion: The use of fossil fuels like oil and coal for energy and transportation generates carbon dioxide emissions and other air pollutants.
3. Waste Burning: Uncontrolled waste burning practices generate hazardous air pollution that affects health and the environment.

Impact of unhealthy Air Pollution:

1. Health Problems: Air pollution contributes to various health issues, including respiratory diseases, eye irritation, heart diseases, stroke, and even cancer.
2. Environmental Impact: Air pollution damages ecosystems, harms plants, and affects water and soil quality.
3. Climate Change: Greenhouse gas emissions from air pollution contribute to global climate change.

Measures to Deal with Worsening Air Pollution :

1. Avoid Outdoor Activities: During high Air Quality Index (AQI) days, it's advisable to avoid outdoor activities, especially for sensitive groups.
2. Use Masks: If outdoor activity is necessary, wearing masks can help protect the respiratory system from harmful particles.
3. Sustainable Transportation: Adopting sustainable transportation and promoting electric vehicles can reduce motor vehicle emissions.
4. Sustainable Waste Management: Adopting better waste management practices, such as recycling and safe disposal, can reduce air pollution from waste burning.
5. Reforestation: Reforestation efforts can help reduce air pollution and store carbon.
6. Air Filtration Technology: Utilizing air filtration technology can capture particles like dust, pollen, bacteria, viruses, and other air pollutants, resulting in cleaner and safer air to breathe.

Air pollution is a complex issue, but with concerted action, we can preserve the quality of the air we breathe and leave a better planet to future generations. In the fight against air pollution, global collaboration is essential. States, local governments, non-governmental organizations, and communities must work together to create a cleaner and healthier environment.