By Claire Mulholland (Y11 Ta 2002)

Industrialized nations produce most of the world’s air pollution. For example, although the United States is home to just 5% of the world’s population the country generates 19% of all greenhouse gases. This is why in December 1997 at Kyoto Japan world leaders signed an agreement, called the Kyoto Protocol, which required 138 industrialised countries to limit their emissions of six greenhouse gases.

When our country, the United Kingdom, signed the Kyoto Protocol, they agreed to limit their emissions of the six greenhouse gases. To do this they make sure that all the local councils are doing all they can to minimise the emissions of the greenhouse gases, and that individuals know what they should be doing to reduce pollutants in and around the home.

Our councils role to play in reducing and controlling our emissions of the six greenhouse gases is that they advise us on how to control pollutants in our own homes as well as making sure that factories control and limit their emissions of the greenhouse gases.

As individuals, we also have a role to play in making our air quality better. Inside our houses there are many sources of pollution including:

 We can reduce or control these pollutants by:

1.      Do not smoke in the home.

2.      Avoid using fluless gas or paraffin heaters.

3.      Properly maintain all stoves, fires and other appliances, which burn fuel.

4.      Ensure you have enough fresh air ventilation.

5.      Adequately heat your home to avoid damp, while maintaining ventilation.

 SOURCES OF INFORMATION:  Microsoft Encarta and Information booklet on Air Pollution And Health from the Department of Health and the Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions.

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