These particles can be made up of various substances, including organic chemicals, metals, dust, and allergens. Particulate Matter (PM) is an integral part of atmospheric pollution and is categorized by its size and composition.
What is Particulate Matter?
Particulate Matter (PM) is not a single pollutant but rather a complex mixture of many chemical Pollutants and it refers to a complex mixture of tiny solid particles and liquid droplets found in the air.
The defining characteristic of Particulate Matter is its ability to remain suspended in the air for extended periods. The smaller the particle, the longer it can persist in the atmosphere and the further it can travel. This airborne presence contributes to its impact on human health, visibility, and environmental systems.
These Particulate Matters are defined by their diameters
PM 2.5 (Fine Particulate Matter)
These are the most harmful pollutants, with a maximum diameter of 2.5 micrometers. Combustion activities, such as vehicle emissions, industrial processes, and wildfires, often produce these. Due to their small size and fine nature, they can penetrate deep into the respiratory system and bloodstream, making them very dangerous for our health. These can remain suspended in the air for days or even weeks, traveling long distances and contributing to regional or global air pollution.
PM 10 (Coarse Particulate Matter)
PM10 refers to particulate matter with a diameter of 10 micrometers or smaller, about one-seventh the width of a human hair. These coarse particles are primarily generated from sources like road dust, construction activities, industrial emissions, and natural processes such as pollen dispersal and volcanic activity. It contributes significantly to air pollution by remaining airborne for extended periods, reducing visibility, and depositing on surfaces. Due to their size, PM10 particles can be inhaled, reaching the upper respiratory tract and lungs. These tend to settle more quickly due to gravity and are usually found near their source.
PM 10 includes PM 2.5 particles as well.
Image via https://devic-earth.com/
Sources of Particulate Matter
Particulate Matter (PM) originates from both natural and human activities:
Natural Sources:
Volcanic eruptions
Forest fires
Dust storms
Sea-spray
Anthropogenic (Human-Made) Sources:
Industrial emissions
Vehicle exhaust
Construction activities
Agricultural practices (e.g., plowing and burning crop residue)
Residential heating and cooking with wood or coal
Health Impacts of Particulate Matter (PM 2.5 & 10)
Particulate Matter (PM), especially PM2.5, poses severe health challenges in India, particularly in Delhi, one of the world’s most polluted cities. Studies have shown that PM2.5 levels in Delhi frequently exceed the World Health Organization's safe limits, causing approximately 1800 deaths per million annually due to air pollution-related diseases such as cardiovascular issues, strokes, and respiratory ailments.
Key Health Impacts:
Respiratory Issues:
Conditions like asthma, bronchitis, and reduced lung function.
Cardiovascular Problems:
Increased risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Chronic Illnesses:
Long-term exposure may lead to diseases like lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Economic and Public Health Burden:
Air pollution costs India over $150 billion annually in healthcare and productivity losses, according to the World Economic Forum. Clean air initiatives not only improve health but could boost GDP by up to 1.4%.
Policy and Mitigation:
Delhi has initiated campaigns like the "Red Light On, Gaadi Off" to curb vehicular emissions and intensified efforts to monitor stubble burning, a key contributor to PM levels.
Ambient Air Quality Standards for Particulate Matter in Delhi
In India, the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS), established by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), set permissible levels for various pollutants, including particulate matter (PM). These standards aim to safeguard public health and the environment.
Standards for PM10 and PM2.5
PM10:
Annual Average: 60 µg/m³
24-Hour Average: 100 µg/m³
PM2.5:
Annual Average: 40 µg/m³
24-Hour Average: 60 µg/m³
How to Protect Yourself from Particulate Matter (PM 2.5 & 10)
Use Air Purifiers: Invest in high-efficiency air purifiers to protect your health. uBreathe Air Purifiers combine nature with technology via their unique plant-based purifying systems and are the only air purifiers that remove gaseous pollutants such as COx, NOx, SOx, TVOCs, PM2.5 & PM10.
Humidity Control: Maintain indoor humidity levels between 30-50% to reduce mold, which can contribute to particulate pollution.
Check Air Quality Index (AQI): Use apps or websites to monitor PM levels in your area. Limit outdoor activities during high pollution days.
Wear Masks: Use N95 or N99 masks, which are effective at filtering PM2.5.
Avoid High-Traffic Areas: Stay away from roads with heavy vehicular traffic, where PM levels are typically higher
By adopting these measures, you can significantly reduce your exposure to harmful particulate matter and protect your health.
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