Impact of Urbanization on Ambient Air Quality: Monitoring and Mitigation Strategies
Urbanization, a hallmark of modern development, has transformed cities into economic powerhouses and hubs of human activity. However, this rapid growth comes at a significant cost to the environment, particularly in terms of air quality. As cities expand, the concentration of pollutants in the air increases, leading to a decline in ambient air quality. Understanding the impact of urbanization on air quality is crucial for developing effective ambient air quality monitoring and implementing strategies to mitigate these adverse effects. Urbanization and Its Impact on Air Quality The process of urbanization involves the expansion of infrastructure, increased industrial activity, and a surge in vehicular traffic. These factors contribute to the release of various pollutants, including particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur dioxide (SO2), carbon monoxide (CO), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These pollutants, when present in high concentrations, can ...