Impacted by Air Pollution (06:02)

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Pollution affects 90% of populations worldwide. In India, 3,000 die daily from related health problems. In China, awareness of pollution hazards has grown; Jan Boquillard started IQAir to make air quality data accessible to citizens.

Studying Urban Air Pollution (06:42)

In North America, air pollution kills more people than traffic accidents. Dr. Greg Evans uses a mobile laboratory to detect fine particles in Toronto air. Prof. Marianne Hatzopoulou samples air in urban environments, finding great quality range and hot spots; she explains how cities trap pollution.

Air Pollution and Children (02:33)

Air pollution impacts can be long-term and immediate. Matthew Beaudry, born near Toronto, became asthmatic due to high levels of air pollution. His family was forced to move to a more rural area for his health. Asthma is the leading cause of hospitalizations for children.

Full Body Impacts of Air Pollution (04:34)

Air pollution causes fibrosis in lungs, enters the bloodstream, and reaches the organs. A study reveals that even short exposures to polluted environment changes DNA.

Air Pollution and Dementia (09:36)

In Mexico City, dogs developing dementia prompted studies of human brain samples. Tests reveal metallic nanoparticles in the brains of residents exposed to high levels of air pollution. Research in other cities reveals that Alzheimer’s and dementia rates increase in areas with poor air quality.

Particulate Impacts on Children (04:30)

The University of Southern California finds that children living in urban areas suffer more lung damage. Ultra-fine particles enter directly into the bloodstream, prompting researchers to study in-utero phases. Pregnant women exposed to poor environments suffer a higher risk of birthing issues.

Portable Monitors (05:38)

In London, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients volunteer for air pollution studies, carrying portable monitors. Annually, 9,000 residents die as result of exposure. In Toronto, a bicyclist's data reveals that urban parks have high concentrations of pollution.

Protection from Air Pollution (10:23)

Improving air quality requires abandoning carbon-based economies. Until that is possible, masking and air filters can help individuals. Awareness can reduce exposure. The Clean Ride Mapper shows bikers and pedestrians less polluted routes, while the Smart Cities Initiative plans to share environmental data.

Credits: Something in the Air (00:47)

Credits: Something in the Air