LAHORE, once known for its vibrant culture and historical landmarks now grapples with a severe smog crisis. The city’s air quality index (AQI) has reached hazardous levels with recent readings soaring above 1900 near the Pakistan-India border. This persistent smog is primarily due to industrial emissions, vehicular pollution and crop burning in the surrounding areas. The situation has prompted the Government to take emergency measures including temporary school closures, timing shift and work-from-home mandates but this is high time that we take responsibility and control of certain matters ourselves. Every small action that we take can contribute significantly to a healthier planet. This article will focus on the simple changes that we can make in our daily routines like reducing energy consumption, recycling and choosing sustainable transportation and how we can collectively make a big difference to combat climate change.
Climate change exacerbates air pollution problems like smog, it looks like fog but is harmful to health. Human activities such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, industrial processes, release of greenhouse gases (GHGs) into the atmosphere are contributing to global warming and smog is posing significant health risks. It is causing respiratory issues such as asthma, bronchitis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Long-term exposure increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, lung cancer and even premature death. Children, the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions are particularly vulnerable.
Individuals can play a significant role in mitigating climate change through various actions and lifestyle changes. Some of the practical steps that can be taken include reducing energy consumption by switching to LED bulbs. They use less energy and last longer than traditional bulbs. Turning off and unplugging electronic devices when not in use also saves energy. Likewise we should look for appliances with high energy efficiency ratings. Shift to renewable energy sources like wind energy and solar panels is helping generate clean energy. The heavy traffic in Lahore is an indication of the large number of cars on the road. To reduce our carbon footprint it is advisable to use public transportation such as Lahore Metrobus system, Orange line or to carpool. Those who could afford, should consider switching to electric or hybrid vehicles. We can also reduce the amount of waste that we produce by buying only what we need. Awareness regarding recycling guidelines and recyclable items lacks in our society. Afforestation is taking place on different levels and should be encouraged even more so that the trees can absorb CO2 and improve air quality. Urban green spaces can act as natural air filters. We also need to implement practices that reduce the need for crop burning such as no-till farming and crop rotation. By opting for healthier choices, conserving water and supporting local produce we can reduce our environmental footprint.
While Lahore faces severe smog, Islamabad’s air quality is also concerning. The AQI in Islamabad has been recorded at levels that are unhealthy for sensitive groups. Karachi also suffers from smog particularly during winter months. Measures similar to those in Lahore such as reducing emissions and increasing green spaces are essential to improve air quality in the capital, Karachi and other affected cities. On a global level, Beijing is known for its severe smog and they implemented various measures to combat air pollution including restricting vehicle use and shutting down polluting factories. New Delhi, India often ranks among the most polluted cities globally with smog levels peaking during winter due to crop burning, vehicle emissions and industrial activities. Historically, Los Angeles has been known for its smog. However the city has made significant progress in improving its air quality through stringent regulations and the promotion of cleaner technologies. Mexico City faces smog issues due to its high altitude and surrounding mountains that trap pollutants. Their efforts to improve air quality include vehicle restrictions and promotion of public transportation. Seoul, South Korea experiences smog primarily due to industrial emissions and transboundary pollution from neighbouring countries. Their measures include air quality monitoring and public awareness campaigns.
These examples highlight that smog is a global issue and each country is taking steps to address the problem yet it remains a significant challenge requiring coordinated efforts at local, national and international levels. We need to realize that each small action we undertake can make a significant contribution to safeguarding the future of our generations. These individual efforts when multiplied across communities can lead to substantial reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and resource conservation. Instead of relying solely on government initiatives, we can empower ourselves and inspire others to adopt sustainable practices. Together, our collective actions can drive a meaningful change and create a more sustainable future for all.
—The writer is contributing columnist, based in Islamabad.
