Consider the following about sand and dust storms across the world:1. ...
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They result from strong turbulent winds eroding sand, silt and clay particles from arid landscapes and impoverishing their soils. The storms can raise large quantities of particles high into the air. They can travel thousands of kilometres across continents and oceans, entraining other pollutants on the way and depositing particles far from their origin.
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Dust harms both humans and animals. Chronic exposure to fine dust contributes to premature deaths from respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, lung cancer and acute lower respiratory infections.
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The anthropogenic causes of sand and dust storms include deforestation and unsustainable agricultural practices as well as excessive water extraction and the modification of water bodies for irrigation and other purposes.
Consider the following about sand and dust storms across the world:1. ...
Introduction:
Sand and dust storms are natural phenomena that occur across the world. They have significant impacts on human health and the environment. This question focuses on three important aspects related to sand and dust storms.
Explanation:
1. They can travel thousands of kilometres across continents and oceans:
- Sand and dust storms are powerful atmospheric events that can transport vast amounts of sand and dust particles over long distances.
- These storms are often caused by strong winds that lift and carry particles from arid and desert regions.
- The particles can be carried over thousands of kilometers, crossing continents and even oceans.
- This phenomenon has been observed in various parts of the world, such as the Sahara desert dust reaching North America and the Asian dust storms reaching the Pacific Ocean.
2. Chronic exposure to fine dust contributes to premature deaths from respiratory and cardiovascular diseases:
- Fine dust particles, known as particulate matter (PM), are one of the major components of sand and dust storms.
- These particles are small enough to be inhaled deep into the respiratory system.
- Chronic exposure to PM can lead to various health problems, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
- The fine particles can cause inflammation in the lungs, aggravate existing respiratory conditions, and increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
- Studies have shown a strong association between exposure to PM and premature deaths.
3. Deforestation, unsustainable agricultural practices, excessive water extraction, and modification of water bodies for irrigation and other purposes:
- These human activities have a direct impact on the occurrence and intensity of sand and dust storms.
- Deforestation reduces vegetation cover, which can lead to soil erosion and the formation of dust sources.
- Unsustainable agricultural practices, such as overgrazing and improper land management, can also contribute to soil erosion and the release of dust particles.
- Excessive water extraction from rivers and groundwater can lower the water table, leading to the exposure of dry and dusty soil.
- The modification of water bodies, such as the construction of dams and reservoirs, can alter natural water flow patterns, potentially drying up rivers and exposing the sediment.
- All these activities increase the vulnerability to sand and dust storms and exacerbate their impacts on human health and the environment.
Conclusion:
Sand and dust storms have far-reaching effects, both in terms of their geographical spread and their impact on human health. It is crucial to address the underlying causes, such as deforestation, unsustainable agricultural practices, and excessive water extraction, to mitigate the risks associated with sand and dust storms. By recognizing the interconnectedness of these issues, we can work towards sustainable solutions that protect both human health and the environment.
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