CO2 Levels and Human Health
Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a naturally occurring gas that is essential for life on Earth. Plants use it to produce oxygen, and humans and animals use oxygen for respiration. However, too much CO2 can have negative impacts on human health.
Atmospheric CO2 levels have been rising steadily since the Industrial Revolution due to the burning of fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and gas. This has led to an increase in the average global temperature, commonly known as global warming.
Oxygen Depletion is a direct consequence of increased CO2 levels. As CO2 levels rise, the amount of oxygen available for respiration decreases. This can cause breathing difficulties in people with respiratory problems such as asthma.
Air Pollution is another consequence of increased CO2 levels. Pollutants such as nitrogen oxides, sulfur oxides, and particulate matter are released into the air when fossil fuels are burned. These pollutants can irritate the lungs and cause respiratory problems.
Temperature Increase is another consequence of increased CO2 levels. Higher temperatures can cause heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. It can also lead to more frequent and intense extreme weather events such as floods and droughts.
Sea Level Rise is another consequence of increased CO2 levels. As temperatures rise, the ice caps melt and the oceans expand, leading to an overall rise in sea levels. This can cause flooding in coastal areas and can lead to the displacement of people living in low-lying areas.
Acidification of Oceans is another consequence of increased CO2 levels. As CO2 dissolves in seawater, it creates carbonic acid. This acidity can be harmful to marine life, particularly coral reefs and shellfish.
It is clear that increased CO2 levels can have negative effects on human health. This is why it is important to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and find alternative sources of energy.
