Medicosnext
Breathing clean air is a critical issue, especially in urban areas. Air pollution is a global concern that poses severe risks to human health and the environment. To combat this issue, innovative solutions are emerging worldwide, aimed at purifying and revitalizing the air we breathe. In this article, we will explore how three unique initiatives — the Vertical Garden in Mexico City, the Algae Purifier in Serbia, and the restoration of the lost Green Belt in Nepal — connect with one another to foster cleaner air and promote sustainable living.
While Mexico City, Serbia, and Nepal all face environmental challenges, the specific problems they encounter may differ due to varying geographical, cultural, and developmental factors. Nevertheless, the common aspect of all the three countries is they are in a developing phase meaning there are socio-economic challenges such as poverty, high unemployment rates, income disparities, overpopulation in urban settings and the need for further infrastructure development. Factors like overpopulation and industrialization in urban settings has caused an excessive level of air pollution in all the three countries.
Growing Population in Urban Setting
Rapid urbanization and the growing population in Mexico, Serbia, and Nepal have significant implications for air quality and environmental degradation. As more people migrate from rural areas to urban centers in search of better opportunities, the strain on infrastructure, resources, and the environment increases.
The growing population in urban settings exacerbates air degradation due to increased energy consumption, vehicular emissions, industrial activities, and haphazard infrastructures. Addressing this challenge requires comprehensive urban planning, improved public transportation systems, promotion of sustainable energy sources, and the implementation of stringent environmental regulations. By adopting sustainable development practices, these countries can mitigate the negative impacts of urban growth on air quality and ensure a healthier and more sustainable future for their urban populations.
In this edition of understanding and enhancing the air quality, let us look at the various measures the countries have opted to minimize air pollution to some extent.
‘Via Verde’- the vertical garden
Mexico has implemented vertical gardens in Mexico City as a strategy to combat pollution and improve air quality. The vertical gardens, also known as green walls, consist of various plant species that help absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, contributing to cleaner air in densely populated areas. These green walls have been installed on the pillars of a highway overpass, transforming the otherwise bare concrete structure into a vibrant and environmentally beneficial space. The vertical gardens act as natural air filters, trapping airborne pollutants and particulate matter, thus reducing their presence in the surrounding atmosphere. This initiative not only helps improve air quality but also enhances the visual appeal of the urban landscape, creating a more sustainable and livable environment.
The vertical gardens have the potential to address multiple environmental challenges in urban areas. Apart from their air purifying capabilities, green walls can regulate temperature, reduce noise pollution, and provide habitats for various urban fauna. Additionally, the inclusion of green spaces in urban settings has been found to have positive effects on mental health and overall well-being. The implementation of vertical gardens in Mexico City serves as a notable example of utilizing innovative and nature-based solutions to combat air pollution and improve urban environments. By integrating green infrastructure into urban planning, cities can strive towards a more sustainable and healthier future for their residents.
The Liquid Trees- Algae Purifier
An interesting initiative was tried in Belgrade, Serbia, where “liquid trees” were installed to combat pollution and improve air quality in the city. These liquid trees, also known as bio-filters or algae purifiers, utilize algae to absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, effectively acting as natural air purifiers. These innovative devices are installed in public spaces, particularly areas with high pollution levels, such as busy intersections. The liquid trees consist of a container filled with water and algae, which are capable of photosynthesis. As air passes through the container, the algae absorb carbon dioxide and other pollutants, while releasing oxygen back into the atmosphere. This process helps to reduce harmful emissions and improves the overall air quality in the surrounding area.
The benefits of these liquid trees as an environmentally friendly solution to combat air pollution is they provide an alternative to traditional trees, especially in urban areas where space limitations may hinder extensive plantation. Additionally, the liquid trees are said to have a higher absorption rate than traditional plants, making them a more efficient and effective means of purifying the air.
It emphasizes the potential of this innovative solution to be replicated in other cities facing similar environmental challenges. By integrating such sustainable technologies into urban planning, cities can take proactive steps towards improving air quality and creating healthier living environments for their residents.
The Ring Road Green-Belt Beautification
The campaign is aimed at restoring the lost green belt in Kathmandu valley’s Ring Road in Nepal. The Ring Road, a major thoroughfare encircling the city, is known for its heavy traffic congestion and urbanization. However, efforts are being made to transform this busy road into a green and sustainable corridor.
The campaign involves planting a diverse range of tree species and establishing green belts along the Ring Road. These green spaces act as natural air filters, absorbing pollutants and releasing oxygen, thus improving the air quality in a highly congested area. Additionally, the greenery helps in reducing noise pollution from traffic, providing a more pleasant and peaceful environment for residents and commuters.
The restoration of Kathmandu’s Ring Road’s Green Belt represents a significant step towards creating a more sustainable and livable urban environment. By integrating nature into urban landscapes, cities can enhance the well-being of their residents, mitigate air pollution, and foster a greater connection with the natural world. The ongoing campaign to revive the Green-belt in the Ring Road in Kathmandu serves as an inspiration and a model for other cities facing similar challenges, emphasizing the potential for positive change through collaborative efforts and environmental stewardship.
The interconnectedness of nature and innovation provides hope for improving air quality in urban areas. The initiatives discussed in this article, such as the Vertical Garden in Mexico City, the Algae Purifier in Serbia, and the restoration of the lost Green Belt in Nepal, showcase the power of sustainable solutions in mitigating air pollution. By integrating nature-based approaches into urban planning, cities can create healthier, more sustainable environments for their residents. The ongoing campaigns and collaborative efforts in various countries serve as inspiration for other cities facing similar challenges. With continued environmental stewardship, we can strive towards a future where cleaner air and a greener world are within reach.
