78 Chapter 3 Introduction to Engineering Design
emission of pollutants that cause acid rain and damage to bodies of water and fish (currently
there are over 2000 bodies of water in the United States that are under fish consumption
advisories), damage to the stratospheric ozone layer, and damage to our buildings and our
national parks. The unhealthy air has more pronounced adverse health effects on children and
elderly people. The human health problems associated with poor air quality include various
respiratory illnesses and heart or lung diseases. Congress passed amendments to the Clean Air
Act in 1990, which required the EPA to address the effect of many toxic air pollutants by set-
ting new standards. Since 1997, the EPA has issued 27 air standards that are to be fully imple-
mented in the coming years. The EPA is currently working with the individual states in this
country to reduce the amount of sulfur in fuels and setting more stringent emission standards
for cars, buses, trucks, and power plants.
We all need to understand that air pollution is a global concern that can affect not only our
health, but also affect our climate. It may trigger the onset of global warming that could lead
to unpleasant natural events. Because we all contribute to this problem, we need to be aware of
the consequences of our lifestyles and find ways to reduce pollution. We could carpool or take
public transportation when going to work or school. We should not leave our cars running idle
for long periods of time, and we can remind others to consume less energy. We should conserve
energy around home and school. For example, turn off the light in a room that is not in use.
When at home, in winter, set the thermostat at 65F or slightly lower and wear a sweater to
feel warm. During summer, at home set the air-conditioning thermostat at 78F or slightly
higher. By consuming less energy and driving less we can help our environment and reduce
air pollution.Outdoor pollution!
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