Experts warn of health issues due to wildfire smoke, poor air quality

Introduction

Published May 18, 2024 • Last updated 5 hours ago • 3 minute read

‘High exposure to air pollution can trigger cardiovascular disease in the long term, as well as certain types of cancer’

Overview of Current Situation

With wildfires burning near Fort McMurray and elsewhere in northern Alberta and B.C., health experts are warning of the risks of poor air quality caused by smoke.

Composition of Wildfire Smoke

Wildfire smoke contains a mixture of hazardous gases and solid particles. Particulate matter, also known as PM 2.5, is of greatest concern to public health. These particles can be inhaled and enter the lungs and bloodstream, causing damage to other organs.

Health Implications

Kerri Johannson from the University of Calgary and the Schneider Institute for Chronic Diseases emphasized the importance of monitoring air quality. She advised:

1. Being aware of air-quality monitoring numbers and their implications.
2. Modifying behaviors if you have chronic lung or heart conditions, or belong to vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, children, the elderly, or those with chronic diseases.

Short-term and Long-term Risks

Johannson highlighted that wildfire smoke is more toxic than regular air pollution. Recent literature indicates both short-term and long-term risks:

• Exacerbation of lung conditions like asthma.
• Long-term exposure can trigger cardiovascular disease and certain types of cancer.

Protective Measures

Opel Vuzi, regional air quality and health specialist with Health Canada, provided several recommendations:

• Stay indoors when wildfire smoke is prevalent.
• Ensure indoor air quality is clean and the temperature is cool.
• Avoid generating indoor air pollution (e.g., frying foods, vacuuming, smoking, burning wood).
• Use a portable air purifier.
• Take frequent breaks and wear certified N95-type masks when working outdoors.

Role of Upper-level Winds

Andy Yun, meteorologist with Environment and Climate Change Canada, explained that upper-level winds control the dispersion of wildfire smoke. This can transport smoke over long distances, affecting air quality far from the source.

Government Response

During a news conference, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith addressed the wildfire near Fort McMurray, which has forced over 6,600 people from their homes. She reassured residents that the government will support them in times of disaster.

Current Wildfire Statistics

According to the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre, Canada is currently fighting 138 active wildfires, with dozens rated as out of control.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

The ongoing wildfire situation and its impact on air quality align with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including:

• SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – Addressing health risks associated with poor air quality.
• SDG 13: Climate Action – Highlighting the need for measures to combat climate change and its impacts.
• SDG 15: Life on Land – Emphasizing the protection and sustainable management of forests.

Conclusion

The increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires necessitate a comprehensive approach to mitigate their impact on public health and the environment. Monitoring air quality, taking protective measures, and addressing climate change are crucial steps towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

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Analysis of the Article on Wildfire Smoke and Air Quality

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
2. SDG 13: Climate Action
3. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

• SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
  • Target 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
• SDG 13: Climate Action
  • Target 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries.
• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
  • Target 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

• Indicator for Target 3.9: Mortality rate attributed to household and ambient air pollution.
• Indicator for Target 13.1: Number of deaths, missing persons, and directly affected persons attributed to disasters per 100,000 population.
• Indicator for Target 11.6: Annual mean levels of fine particulate matter (e.g., PM2.5 and PM10) in cities (population weighted).

The article discusses the health impacts of wildfire smoke, which contains hazardous gases and particulate matter (PM2.5), linking it directly to SDG 3.9. The need for monitoring air quality and taking preventive measures aligns with SDG 11.6. The mention of wildfires as a recurring issue due to climate conditions ties into SDG 13.1.

4. Findings Table

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Copyright: Dive into this article, curated with care by SDG Investors Inc. Our advanced AI technology searches through vast amounts of data to spotlight how we are all moving forward with the Sustainable Development Goals. While we own the rights to this content, we invite you to share it to help spread knowledge and spark action on the SDGs.

Fuente: calgaryherald.com

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