Ambient Air Pollution: an Important Global Issue

In recent years, climate change and increasing human economic activity has resulted in air pollution becoming an important global issue; air pollution-related health issues are also globally gaining more interest. Air pollution reportedly increases the risk of respiratory, cerebrovascular, cardiovascular, and degenerative diseases (e.g., dementia and osteoporosis) as well as autoimmune disorders. In addition to health issues, human economic activity has led to power shortage. The Taiwan Government needs to develop complete mass transit systems and emission standards to reduce fossil fuel emission and establish standard analytical methods of monitoring air pollutant levels. Because of the antinuclear trend in the global public opinion, the Government needs to immediately consider the use of alternative green energy to address power shortage. Petrochemical industries should improve their processes and replace coal with clean fuel. Quality of the air surrounding petrochemical plants should be measured and monitored. In addition, neighborhood resident health should be followed up over the long term.