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https://www.sciencealert.com/fourth-of-july-celebration-fireworks-come-with-a-side-of-dangerous-air-pollution>
'Hopefully you're already aware of the basic safety precautions required when
it comes to fireworks – but what you might not know is the accompanying
increase in air pollution that goes along with the loud bangs, pops, and
fizzes, as outlined in a new study.
The team behind a new study led by researchers from Brigham Young University
(BYU) in the US found fireworks were among the three largest contributors to
particulate pollution in the Wasatch Front region in Utah.
Most concerning were the PM2.5 pollutants. Under 2.5 microns across – a
fraction of the width of a human hair – their small size makes them
particularly dangerous because of the ease with which they can be inhaled.
The samples, taken across the years 2019 to 2021, were analyzed for metal
traces to identify the sources of pollution. High levels of barium and copper
were discovered from fireworks, as well as arsenic, cadmium, lead, and thallium
from winter inversions, where a shift in air temperature traps pollutants.
"We know we're breathing in these particles that are unhealthy during firework
events, dust storms, or winter inversions," says geologist Greg Carling, from
BYU.
"But what's actually in the particulate matter? No one really knew before this
study."
Alongside fireworks, mineral dust and urban pollution were identified as the
other two main pollutants in this part of Utah. Any fireworks that produce
smoke or color significantly add to the problem, the researchers say.'
Via Rixty Dixet.
Cheers,
*** Xanni ***
--
mailto:xanni@xanadu.net Andrew Pam
http://xanadu.com.au/ Chief Scientist, Xanadu
https://glasswings.com.au/ Partner, Glass Wings
https://sericyb.com.au/ Manager, Serious Cybernetics
