Adopting air pollution control measures

According to a global report, air pollution cuts the average life expectancy of a person in Bangladesh by almost three years. It is higher than in India, Pakistan, Bhutan, and Afghanistan, says the report released by US-based organisations Health Effects Institute and Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation. The poor air quality of the country often makes headlines due to fossil fuel burning, biomass burning, emissions from unfit vehicles, brick kilns and massive development works. So, time has come to pay serious attention to the country's air quality.

The best way to reduce air pollution is to take the lead in managing carbon emissions from vehicles and industries. For industries, the use of renewable energy and the manufacturing of environmentally friendly consumer products are fundamental. For vehicles, use of public transport, walking or biking instead of driving can significantly reduce pollution. I request the government to look into the issue and adopt measures through which pollution can either be reduced or controlled.

Abu Elias Linkon,

Banasree, Dhaka,

[email protected]