Louisville is known for many things like the Derby, Slugger bats, and bourbon. However, when thinking about this gorgeous city, air pollution isn’t one of the first few thoughts that people typically have.
Air pollution has had massive effects on Louisville residents, but this issue plays an even larger role for students and their quality of education. When students’ education becomes affected by air pollution, then how can they create a better future in Louisville?
"A RECENT STUDY HAS FOUND LOUISVILLE'S AIR RANKS WORSE THAN DETROIT'S SMOKESTACKS, FLINT MICHIGAN'S WATER, AND LOUISIANA'S CANCER ALLEY."
Local residents of Louisville are exposed to about 85,000 tons of toxic air annually. Within this air are small particles that are called PM 2.5. These particles are so small that they're able to enter your bloodstream and cause negative effects on your brain and body.
When around high levels of pollution, people have increased chances to get respiratory illnesses. When students get sick, then they may miss school and/or become less productive. Similarly, when teachers get sick with respiratory illnesses, then their quality of teaching may suffer.
"PM 2.5 PARTICLES CAN ACCESS ANY PART OF THE BODY THROUGH YOUR BLOODSTREAM."
Pollution causes increases in respiratory illnesses, but it also causes disruptions in the way that our brains work. This is known as brain smog.
In schools, brain smog causes both teachers and students to experience decreased levels of accuracy, response times, and overall productivity.
Interrupted education due to brain smog and respiratory illnesses hurts the education system. Without quality education, then Louisville’s future generations may struggle to create the change that is needed for air pollution.
"A STUDY HAS SHOWN THAT INCREASES IN PM 2.5 PARTICLES ARE ASSOCIATED WITH ACUTE REDUCTIONS IN COGNITIVE FUNCTIONS."
With toxic air ruining the quality of education and health, why aren’t we prioritizing clean air for Louisville residents?
The city of Louisville could create healthier air by installing quality air filtration systems throughout the city, and this option is affordable for Kentucky.
Do you have any solutions to improve the air quality in Louisville? Contact Air Justice today and share your thoughts.
Credits:
Created with images by jovannig - "African girl and caucasian boy studying in the classroom" • Christopher Boswell - "Aerial Perspective over Downtown Louisville Kentucky on the Ohio River" • Prostock-studio - "Sick Child. Caring Father Measuring Temperature Of His Daughter" • Kateryna - "Tired frustrated overworked African American young woman in casual wear, manager, freelancer or student sitting in living room at laptop, experiencing stress, headache, rubs and close her eyes with" • SeanPavonePhoto - "Louisville, Kentucky, USA Skyline"