We need to transition from fossil fuels to nuclear energy in order to effectively combat this. Solar, wind, and hydro power are not sufficiently robust and reliable to power large cities such as New York, Tokyo, or London. Energy from biomass (i.e. burning wood and similar) creates even more air pollution and carbon production. Only nuclear will provide carbon-free, reliable 24/7 energy without polluting the air, and 4th generation nuclear plants even use up what was considered nuclear waste. Nuclear now is exceedingly safe and clean. Plus, from a health standpoint, it is the safest form of energy production we have, much safer than biomass or our obsession with fossil fuels. Don't let irrational fear prevent development of this clear energy source which powers most of France and has even safely powered submarines for decades! - TFH
Air pollution: A systematic review of its psychological, economic, and social effects.:
Curr Opin Psychol. 2019 Jul 08;32:52-65
Authors: Lu JG
Abstract
This review (178 published articles) is the first to systematically examine the psychological (affective, cognitive, behavioral), economic, and social effects of air pollution beyond its physiological and environmental effects. Affectively, air pollution decreases happiness and life satisfaction, and increases annoyance, anxiety, mental disorders, self-harm, and suicide. Cognitively, it impairs cognitive functioning and decision making. Behaviorally, air pollution triggers avoidance behavior, defensive expenditure, and migration as coping strategies. Economically, it hurts work productivity and stock markets. Socially, it exacerbates criminal activities and worsens perception of the government. Importantly, both actual and perceived air pollution levels matter. Limitations of past research and future directions are discussed.
PMID: 31557706 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]