Is Clean Air the Next Luxury? The Dystopian Reality of Gasping
In a world where even the air we breathe is becoming a commodity, one might question the foresight of satirical playwright Ben Elton. His 1990 debut play, *Gasping*, shattered the…
Air quality refers to the condition of the air within our environment, primarily concerning the presence of pollutants and harmful substances. It is measured by the concentration of various air pollutants, including particulate matter (PM), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), carbon monoxide (CO), ozone (O3), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Good air quality is typically characterized by lower levels of these pollutants, ensuring that the air is safe for human health and the environment. Conversely, poor air quality can lead to health problems, including respiratory issues, cardiovascular diseases, and adverse effects on vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly.
Air quality is often monitored using various indices, such as the Air Quality Index (AQI), which provides a standardized way to report daily air quality levels and alerts the public to potential health risks related to air pollution.
Factors that influence air quality include industrial emissions, vehicular traffic, natural events like wildfires, and weather conditions. Efforts to improve air quality typically involve regulatory measures, pollution control technologies, and public awareness campaigns.
In a world where even the air we breathe is becoming a commodity, one might question the foresight of satirical playwright Ben Elton. His 1990 debut play, *Gasping*, shattered the…