Fresno’s poor air quality is caused by a variety of factors. In addition to these, there are numerous other sources.
The primary pollutant is ozone, which is also known as smog. Vehicles, agricultural operations, and industries all contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone. Sunlight and heat help to speed up this reaction. In the summer, this makes this same valley an ideal location for the formation of ozone.
In addition to ozone-forming ozone, carbon pollution from power stations, automobiles, and industries contributes to air pollution, but to a lesser extent.
An additional contributor to air pollution is fine particulates such as soot and dust.
There May Be Health Consequences Due To Fresno’s Air Pollution.
$1.7 billion is the estimated annual cost of Fresno’s poor air quality on the health of its residents. This works out to $1,124 for each individual. There’s about $6 billion in annual costs for the whole region. This reveals that Fresno is responsible for nearly a third of the region’s health-related costs because of poor air quality. Also, this implies that a significant amount of money is being invested in the treatment and control of diseases caused by the poor air quality in Fresno.
Asthma in children is particularly prevalent in Fresno County, which has the nation’s highest rate of the condition. Polluted air irritates mucous membranes in the nasal, bronchial and sinus cavities, which in turn triggers allergic reactions and asthma attacks.
Ozone has been linked to respiratory ailments such as inflammation of the lungs, irritation of the lungs, and worsening of asthma. Early death, developmental damage, reproductive harm, gasping for breath and coughing, and rates of infectious may also result from exposure to ozone.
When inhaled, dust and smoke, which are both fine particulates, can easily be trapped in the lungs. As a result, many people have developed asthma, heart disease, chronic bronchitis, and even died young as a result of all of these things.
Controls On Emissions
Fresno County would become a dangerous place to live if no steps were taken to reduce the emissions of harmful gases in the California Central Valley. Examples of actions that can be taken or enacted include:
For the sake of public health, Congress must continue to back the Clean Water Act. This law mandates that the EPA so each state take steps to reduce air pollution and protect public health. Maintaining and enforcing this legislation should be the responsibility of Congress.
In addition to reducing emissions in the region, the Clean Air Act’s steps will also have a positive impact on emissions in other states.
Power plants must be forced to reduce carbon emissions by adopting Clean Power Plans. “Clean Power Plans” could reduce carbon emissions by up to 32 percent by 2030. Existing utility systems can be improved in terms of efficiency and use of more environmentally friendly sources of power. A partnership with other countries can also help Fresno’s efforts to reduce air pollution.
Heavy equipment and advertising diesel vehicles emit toxic emissions that need to be cleaned up in the Central Valley.
The air pollution network in the Central Valley of California should also be monitored. This allows for precise estimation of the region’s air pollution levels and aids in the development of strategies for reducing it.
Another way that local residents can help reduce pollution is to speak up for better air quality protections. Use energy-efficient equipment, drive less, and don’t burn trash or wood in order to reduce their electricity consumption.
Residents of Fresno can enjoy better health and a higher standard of living while also reducing emissions. Fresno County will become more desirable to live in, attracting more businesses, and improving the regional economy as a result.
