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Lifting the Black Cloud |
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Cairo’s air pollution crisis has had a major impact on the health of its inhabitants and the environment. This problem is unfortunately endemic of many megacities of the third world. Air quality in Cairo has been reaching dangerous levels of lead, carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and suspended particulate matter concentrations due to decades of unregulated car emissions, urban industrial operations, and chaff and trash burning. Cairo’s geography and climate exacerbate these human sources of pollution. The level of air pollution in Cairo ranges from 10 to 100 times higher than the standards set by the World Health Organization. The Egyptian government, with the continued help of foreign nations, has begun to impose air quality standards among the relevant industries and instill a sense of accountability among its citizens.
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What causes Cairo’s pollution? Cairo’s air pollution is caused by a number of natural factors and
What are the major pollutants? Lead, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, suspended particulate matter, among others.
What are the major impacts of air pollution? Health effects, environmental damage, economic loss , and destruction of ancient monuments.
What policy initiatives have been introduced? A number of policy initiatives have been introduced at the national and the international level.
How have other megacities dealt with similar problems? Bangkok has been successful in curbing its pollution crisis.
Is grassroots environmentalism vital to sustain change? Governmental imperatives only go so far; environmental consciousness must start with the people.
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Research and design by: Emily Shaw, Ali Naderzad, Barbara Boies |
